reflecting on 2025.

As the year draws to a close, our focus can be fixed firmly forward, on the busy weeks ahead, or on planning a successful 2026. But to prepare well for the future, it's useful to reflect on the year we’ve had.

For me, 2025 has been about steady, focused evolution. That’s meant careful mindset shifts, improvements of 1%, commitment to beneficial habits, and an intentional focus on values, delivery and progress.

It’s been the many small but important changes that have added up to so much more, both personally and professionally.

so, what have I learned?

stay human.

The vital importance of being a human in recruitment really stood out to me this year. Deeper relationships, real conversations, kindness, curiosity, fairness and a genuine desire to help people. These are the foundations of both my personal and professional life; the things that build real trust and reputation, and what make my work as a recruiter so much more meaningful and successful.

quiet wins.

I have come to see that not every milestone needs to be made public. Quiet progress matters. The achievement of personal goals without applause is as valuable as the more public moments. In many ways, it can boost your confidence when others naturally notice your growth and success, rather than you showcasing it. And when you grow in confidence yourself, you inspire it in others.

reflect often.

Reflection, both in retrospect and in the moment, has been powerful this year, helping me see what energises me or drains me. It has sharpened my focus on where I want to spend my time going forward.

less haste, more speed.

Recruitment can be seen as a frantic and stress-filled experience for everyone involved. It really doesn’t need to be, if the planning, experience and structure are there. Progress and success are rarely achieved in a sprint; they come from a consistent and steady climb with the right tools to hand.

remain true to your values.

2025 again reminded me of my “why.” The people, the experiences, the challenges, the wins; they have all reaffirmed my passion for supporting people and employers in hospitality, and in the importance of human-centric hiring.

Growth doesn’t always come from reinvention. The strategy doesn’t always have to be rebuilt each year. Often, it’s the smaller, consistent steps forward that make the greatest difference.

What are your reflections on 2025?