As we near the end of 2024, it’s a natural time to reflect on the things that have shaped my approach, my mindset, and the way I live and work. Over the years, certain insights and beliefs have become foundational to who I am—both as a professional and as an individual—and 2024 has been another year of confirming and solidifying these truths. These principles guide me in every decision, interaction, and challenge I face.
I’m driven by a commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence. But beyond the technical aspects of my work, I’ve realized that the most important drivers of success are rooted in mindset, action, and personal growth. The following insights aren’t just things I’ve learned this year—they’re truths I’ve embraced and affirmed over time, truths that I’ll continue to carry with me into 2025.
The Power of a Beginner’s Mindset
One of the truths that’s become even more clear over time is the importance of maintaining a beginner’s mindset. No matter how experienced we become in our careers or personal lives, there’s always something new to discover. Expertise can often close the door to growth if we’re not intentional about staying open. A beginner’s mindset isn’t about being naïve or uninformed; it’s about actively choosing to remain curious, adaptable, and open to new possibilities.
By consistently embracing this mindset, I find that I not only remain open to new ideas but also cultivate deeper relationships and build better solutions for my clients. It’s a mindset that helps me avoid complacency and pushes me to be better, both in my business and in my personal life.
So as we move into 2025, I encourage you to carry this mindset with you. Stay curious, stay open, and always seek to learn more.
Self-Discipline: The Backbone of Sustainable Success
Another core truth that I’ve come to fully embrace is that self-discipline is the foundation of sustainable success. Success is rarely about a single breakthrough or a moment of inspiration; it’s about consistently showing up, putting in the work, and sticking to your principles—even when it’s difficult.
This doesn’t mean not allowing yourself grace and space when needed. It’s about authenticity.
While motivation may get us started, it’s discipline that keeps us going when the excitement wanes. Whether it’s staying consistent with my professional goals, maintaining a mindfulness practice, or simply ensuring I prioritize what’s important—self-discipline is what helps me continue to grow and deliver value to my clients. It’s not always easy, but it is always necessary.
As we enter 2025, I’ll continue to focus on discipline over motivation. It’s easy to wait for the perfect moment or the ideal conditions, but success happens in the doing. And doing requires discipline.
Accountability, Grace, and Growth
Over the years, I’ve come to understand the importance of balancing accountability with grace. Holding ourselves accountable is essential—it’s how we ensure we remain on track, meet our goals, and continue to improve. But we must also learn to balance this accountability with compassion, both for ourselves and others.
We’re all human, and no matter how much we strive for excellence, mistakes will happen. It’s in those moments that grace is necessary—not as an excuse for failure, but as a way to continue learning and growing. Accountability without grace can lead to stagnation, while accountability with grace allows for growth.
Moving into 2025, I am committed to holding myself and those I work with accountable for the things that matter, while also acknowledging that growth comes from mistakes, setbacks, and missteps. The key is how we respond to them.
The Importance of Action Over Perfection
One of the biggest insights I’ve reaffirmed over time is that action is always more powerful than perfection. Too often, we delay progress, waiting for the perfect moment or the ideal set of circumstances. But I’ve come to realize that perfection is often an illusion—an excuse that keeps us stuck in indecision and procrastination.
The truth is: something is better than nothing. Progress is made by doing. We don’t need all the answers or all the pieces in place to start. We simply need to begin, and adjust as we go. It’s through action—imperfect and messy as it may sometimes be—that real progress happens.
So in 2025, my challenge to you is simple: Do the thing. Don’t wait for the perfect conditions. Start, adjust, and refine. The act of doing is where the magic happens, and that’s where success is built.
Self-Care and Sustaining Your Efforts
Another truth I’ve fully embraced is that in order to sustain long-term effectiveness—whether as a leader, consultant, or human being—we must nurture ourselves. This isn’t a new lesson for me, but one that has grown stronger over time. It’s easy to get caught up in the rush to serve others—our clients, our teams, our loved ones—but I’ve learned that without taking care of myself, I won’t be able to give my best.
Self-care is essential for maintaining the energy, focus, and clarity needed to continue doing meaningful work. It’s about finding balance, carving out time for rest, moving my body, and nurturing my mind. In 2025, I will continue prioritizing self-care, knowing that when I take care of myself, I can show up with greater purpose and intention for those I serve.
Letting Go of the Need for Control
Lastly, I’ve become increasingly aware of the human tendency to want to control situations, outcomes, and other people. It’s natural to desire control—it provides a sense of security. But I’ve come to realize that control often leads to frustration, especially when we try to control things outside of our influence. What I’ve learned is that true growth comes from focusing on what I can control—my actions, my responses, and my mindset—and letting go of the rest.
In 2025, I’ll continue to focus on developing self-discipline around recognizing when my motivations are driven by a desire for control. The more I learn to let go of the things I can’t control, the more space I create for growth, creativity, and clarity.
Moving Forward with Boldness
As we step into 2025, I’m committed to continuing this journey of growth, mindfulness, and purposeful action. The truths that have been confirmed in 2024 are the same truths I’ll carry with me into the new year. Doing the thing will continue to be my guiding principle.
If you’re reading this, I encourage you to take this truth into 2025 with you as well: perfection is overrated, but action is indispensable. Let go of the excuses, stop waiting for everything to line up, and do the thing. That’s where growth happens, and that’s where success is built.
As we step into the new year, I invite you to join me on this journey. Let’s make 2025 a year of action, progress, and impactful change.
♥ Here’s to doing the thing—and to a transformative year ahead.
Michelle Conaway, APM, BSM, CSM, LSSBB
ElevatedOps Consulting, LLC 