Of course, a new year prompts reflection from 2025 and intentions for 2026 (not a fan of the word “resolutions”). The reflection that’s my big take-away from 2025 is to proudly confess that “I don’t have all the answers.”
I shared this perspective in every session I coached, every class I led, and every editing project I tackled in 2025.
I’ll admit, it was a little nerve-wracking to put a disclaimer of “I don’t have all the answers” in my slide deck. I didn’t want to come across as unsure or wishy-washy about what I teach.
But sharing those six words seemed to encourage questions, calm nerves and give people space to think about themselves a little differently.
I’ve always believed everyone can benefit from sharpening their speaking and writing skills, even if it’s not in their job description. People who can write and speak confidently are the ones leaders want at the table.
In 2025, I had the privilege of working with clients in more than a dozen organizations ranging from new grads to seasoned pros and teary first-time speakers to polished presenters needing a tune-up.
These sessions ranged from one-on-one coaching to instructing a leadership team of 150.
In every session, I recognized everyone’s strengths were their own, and everyone’s challenges will vary. That means I take time to dig for the answer to every client’s question.
- “Should I use gestures?
- “How long should a news release be?”
- “How many points are too many for a 15 minute presentation?”
- “Should I use humor?
Sometimes the answer to these types of questions could be “it depends.” Sometimes these questions prompt a deeper dive into understanding the “why” behind them. Sometimes there is an easy answer.
Here’s why I take this approach.
As a coach working with spoken and written words, I shouldn’t give everyone the same answer. What’s a right approach for one person may be the wrong one for another.
My goal is very simple. We start where you are and work toward where you want to be.
I’ve reorganized my company website a bit to make it easier for visitors to see the various types of services we offer and the types of work we’ve done in the past.
Take and look and give me a shout if I can help in 2026.