I was going to write one of those ‘end of the year reviews.’
Then I remembered how dreadful and self-indulgent they can be.
Like the round robin in the Christmas card reading, ‘We came home from San Trop to find Sally got 5 A levels - all A*. She’s going to Cambridge to study astrophysics. And William has been selected to play for the County under-16s. He’s only nine.’
Meanwhile, we’re celebrating that our daughter Sarah has gone a full week without losing a shoe.
She’s 33.
I’ve decided to share a few lessons I’ve learned and a couple of realisations I’ve had in the last 12 months.
I hope you enjoy them.
1. Endings Are Alright
Closing the How To Be Brilliant Facebook group after more than five years wasn’t a failure. It was a decision to protect energy, focus and standards. Some things end so better things can begin.
2. Kindness & Knitting
The Invisible Hat campaign began with two women, wool and time. My mum, Liz, and her friend Betty showed that the quietest ideas often carry the most warmth. I just added the ‘raise some cash’ element. Together and with your support, we raised £3,200.
3. Roots Matter More
Working with the Community Foundation on North East Roots reinforced a simple truth: Where you come from shapes who you are.
4. AI is Changing EVERYTHING
Last year, I was going to launch Brilliant AI. I’m pleased I didn’t. Looking at how quickly many AI projects are dated, often in just a few short months, made me realise I couldn’t keep up.
5. Writing is Still Home
Newsletters, reflections, Magic Mondays and metaphors continue to be how I process the world.
6. I’m a Better Coach Than I Thought
I’m going to write more on this in the new year. When I look back at what my coaching clients have achieved in 2025 and how generously they credit me for guidance, I get a warm and fuzzy feeling.
7. Grandpa-ing is The Best
Time with my two granddaughters using imagination, laughter and sharing very silly jokes has a wonderful way of reminding you what really matters.
8. Courage Beats Comfort
Some decisions this year required a steady nerve rather than certainty. But progress often asks you to choose to take action before you feel ready.
9. Health is The Foundation
Eat well. Think well. Move well. Looking after those three foundations isn’t an option - it’s essential.
10. Walking Creates Space
Many of this year’s ideas arrived while walking. Movement and being outdoors clear the mind and makes room for better thinking.
11. I Can Run!
After years of saying I can’t (don’t want to) run, I started in April, was attacked while training by a buzzard in June, did a 10k in July and found I actually like it.
12. Quiet Progress Beats Big Announcements
Not everything needs an announcement. Some of my most important shifts this year have happened slowly and only showed their value later.
Looking ahead, I am choosing to focus on these intentions.
Protect the foundations.
Keep showing up.
Choose curiosity, kindness and courage.
Thank you for being part of my year.
Be Brilliant!
Michael
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