Hello Reader 👋

The holidays are behind us, and life is back to its usual rhythm. Workdays, weekends, repeat.
If you’ve set goals for 2025, how’s it going? Are you holding onto them?

In my last newsletter, I shared something important:

This year, don’t just let life happen to you. Make it yours.

I was reminded of that during a coaching session last week. My client shared a realization that stuck with me. (He even encouraged me to share it with you!)

He said:

“A lot of what I want in life, I can get through a few more skills.”

It was a powerful moment.

We had spent time clarifying what he wants and what really matters to him. Here’s what he realized:

He wants to earn more in his job, which means finishing his MBA. Nine months to go.
He’d love to help his wife with her online business, so he’s ready to learn video editing.
His dream is to write a book, and he’s committed to learning fiction writing and practicing daily.

All these goals are within reach.

But they all require building new skills.

Building skills can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, it’s pretty simple if you break it into 3 steps:

Pick something to apply. Start small - summarize a book chapter, add subtitles to a video, or write a paragraph using a new tip.
Review the result. What worked? What didn’t? What did you learn?
Improve. Tweak it and apply it again.

That’s it.

Apply, review, improve.

Repeat until you get where you want to be.

By the end of our session, my client was energized. He left with a clear plan and the drive to pursue what he really wants. It was inspiring to see his determination.

And I wanted to share this story with you for one reason:

You might be just one skill away from achieving your long-term dream.

What’s the next skill you could build? Start small. Use the 3 steps.

And remember, it’s your life. Live it on your own terms.

Rooting for you,

Carmen

P.S.: Would you like help figuring out your next step? Let’s talk. 😊

Ways I can help you:

Worries Be Gone! - make worries disappear, one by one, with this powerful approach. Download the free guide here.
Say NO with Confidence and Ease - get inspiration on how to politely and firmly decline requests that are not aligned with your values or priorities. Download the free document here.
Premium 1-1 Coaching - for mid career professionals who struggle with overwhelm, insecurities and a job they don’t love, but they want a confident, stress-free life. Email me “premium” and I’ll get you details.