What a year! -Taking a moment to look back always brings a mix of perspective and gratitude. As I wrap up my final newsletter of the year, I found myself reflecting not just on what happened, but on what I wrote, questioned, and explored along the way.
Thank you for being part of the conversation. Your comments, emails, and shared reflections remind me that this isn’t writing into the void — it’s a dialogue. Based on what resonated most with you (and the topics I kept returning to), I’ve pulled together a 2025 year-in-review of my most meaningful articles.
January – What my parents taught me about trust
A personal reflection on trust — how it’s built, broken, and sustained — and why it remains foundational in relationships, leadership, and life.
February – How to get un-stuck
Ever feel like you’re in a rut, unsure of your next step? In this empowering reflection, Michelle shares her own story of career and daily-life inertia — and reveals how clarity, energy, and even the smallest actions can help you regain momentum and move forward with confidence.
March – The Power of Authentic Self-Promotion
Self-promotion doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable or inauthentic. This article reframes how to share your value in a way that feels aligned, confident, and human.
April – What are your facial expressions saying about you?
Communication isn’t just verbal. This piece dives into the often-overlooked role of facial expressions — and how they shape trust, perception, and presence.
May – Do You Take a Coach Approach? (And Why You Should)
Leadership isn’t about having all the answers. This article makes the case for asking better questions, empowering others, and leading with a coaching mindset.
June – Are you a people pleaser?
Saying yes can feel generous — until it isn’t. This post examines the hidden costs of people-pleasing and offers a more honest, sustainable way to show up.
July – The curse of competence
Being good at what you do can actually work against you. This article explores how expertise can blind us, create assumptions, and unintentionally distance us from others.
August – Embracing Imperfection
Perfectionism can be a sneaky barrier to progress and connection. This piece invites you to loosen your grip, show up more fully, and find strength in what’s unfinished and imperfect.
September – From Empty Nest to Free Bird: The Power of Reframing
Perspective changes everything. This reflection shows how reframing a life transition can shift loss into opportunity — and open the door to unexpected freedom.
October – Collaborate, Cooperate, and Contribute: What’s the Difference?
These words are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. This post breaks down the subtle — and powerful — differences, and why clarity here matters for teams and leaders.
November – Diagnose before you prescribe: Giving the right support
Our instinct is often to fix — but that’s not always what’s needed. This article challenges us to pause, ask better questions, and offer the kind of support that truly meets the moment.
December – Embrace a Beginner’s Mindset 🌱✨
What if expertise is actually holding you back? This piece explores how curiosity, humility, and a beginner’s mindset can unlock growth, creativity, and deeper connection — no matter how accomplished you are.