3 Passion Lessons from 2024 You'll Actually Use in 2025 😉

Hello Passion Seekers!

OK, I have to confess, I've tried writing this note to you 4 times! I started with a "lessons learned" kind of thing, but honestly, how many of those have you had already? And it's only the first week of December...

2024 has been quite something. Writing my book (I have a title! I promise I will share it soon!), sharing my keynote to thousands of people across the US, celebrating 10 years of building Passion Collective, and trying to squeeze in my own passions somewhere in between. I feel like I haven't stopped, but that's a GOOD thing!

When I look back on this year, there are three themes that keep coming back to me. Without trying to be the Lesson Guru/Goddess, I hope they help you as you reflect on your year and plan for the next.

Do. The. Work.

If 2024 has taught me anything, it's that pursuing what you love takes consistent, hopeful work. It's often the prospect of the extra effort that stops us from moving forward (I get it, I have so many hacks for my procrastination, you wouldn't believe…!) But, if you can gently push yourself to focus, to write that tricky email, to walk into that class alone, to ask for what you want, it WILL pay off even if you feel like you're not making progress.

Please avoid the temptation to take the short cut, to copy someone else's idea or work, to leave your project unfinished, to not share your story, to not learn. You owe it to yourself to put your energy into this thing you love – you'll get so much back in return, and best of all, it will be YOURS.

You're Not an All-You-Can-Eat Buffet

This year brought me some tough lessons about trust and friendship. It stings, especially when you're trying to do more of what you love with people who you thought had your back, and that vulnerable feeling can create self doubt that can be hard to shake.

But here's what I've remembered this year: Not everyone has earned the right to be – or stay – in your inner circle. Your dreams and passions are precious - don't let the wrong people dim your light or slow you down. Know your worth, trust your instincts, and stop giving endless chances to those who've broken your trust. Save your energy for the people and projects that truly deserve it.

FIGHT!!!

I know this has been a rollercoaster year for so many of you. Some have experienced deep losses – of loved ones, jobs and hopes. I know we have Passion Seekers reading this who are still in the midst of a war in their country.

Some of you have accomplished incredible things: making art, building businesses, receiving promotions and accolades.

Many of you have experienced both, which can make understanding it all so much harder.

What matters is how we fight for what lights us up. It means adapting when plans don't work out, reaching out when we need help, and finding creative ways around obstacles. That's what this community is about – supporting each other as we fight to do more of what we love, whatever that takes.

You all inspire me to keep pushing and to make 2025 the best yet. THANK YOU for your support this year. It has meant the world!

Laura

Founder, Passion Collective