But honestly, it doesn’t feel that way at all.

When I sat down to reflect on the year, I opened my Google Calendar. Then I realised—bad idea. The real memories aren’t in scheduled appointments; they’re in the photos on your phone.

Jimmy Carr says, “People don't want to live longer. They want more memories... If you do the same commute for a year, you don't have 300 memories of that commute. You've got one memory. But if you do different things every day, go to different places, talk to different people, you experience the world.”

I’m so fortunate that my work helps create these moments.

Some of my highlights from my first year in my 40s:

- Ran workshops based on The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint in New York City, Brisbane, Perth, Broome, and virtually around the globe.
- Bought my ‘mental health car’—a convertible that lifts my spirits whenever I need it.
- Completed the Gold Coast Marathon (ouch, but worth it!).
- Had my best year in business—not just in profit, but optimising joy—co-hosting workshops with Michael Bungay Stanier, Tim Ferguson and Sally Prosser, and broadcasting bi-monthly with Alan Weiss.
- Booked my own corporate box at the cricket (and Justin Langer stopped by for a chat—thanks, LinkedIn!).
- Created a pop-up mastermind group called the 90-Day Club with Petra Zink, Jade Miller, Ronsley Vaz and Julian Mather
- Volunteered for great causes like 10x10 Brisbane and the CQuence Foundation.
- Took charge of my schedule—visiting NZ for my parents' 70th, the Whitsundays for Petra’s 40th, and celebrating my 8th wedding anniversary with a Monday staycation.
- Partnered with three incredible clients for Leanne Hughes’ Red Carpet Experience (VIP days).
- Bought a self-flying camera (twice!).

Where I dropped the ball:

- Sending regular newsletters.
- Giving up sugar.
- Reducing screen time.
- Learning a new word every day.

What I learned:

- Chris, Quincey and Milo are my rock—keeping me grounded with our daily walks.
- I thrive in HIIP mode (High Intensity Interval Performer mode). Consistency isn’t my thing, but when I’m in, I’m all in. Just need to ensure adequate rest, before getting back into the ring.
- The biggest unlock when stuck? Change your environment. Take a walk, grab a coffee, get moving.
- My fav tech tool? Not Chat GPT. Our robo vacuum that vacuums + mops, SO GOOD arriving home to fresh floors!
- You can shape your own narrative through the content you create—I sold more 2-Hour workshops just by writing the book!

What’s next:

- Deciding on my second book.
- Learning to run without breathing through my mouth.
- Creating a new speaker reel with Sean Smith.
- Hosting the Red Carpet Campout—a glamping retreat I’m beyond excited for.
- Las Vegas—I’ll be there soon!

I’m kicking off 41 this week, hosting my own off-site strategy sesh “radical reboot”) to inspire invent and indulge, and set the tone for an even more adventurous year ahead.

#40isthenew20 #annualreflections