A Reflection on 2024 to Help High-Achieving Women Prioritise Their Wellbeing and Build Resilience”

A Year in Reflection—What Did We Learn About Mental Health and Wellbeing?

As 2024 draws to a close, are you reflecting on your successes—or wondering how you’ll keep going? For many, this year has felt like a constant juggling act, with mental health often pushed to the back burner.

Rachel felt like she was “carrying everyone else’s load, with no time to breathe.” By the time burnout hit, she was exhausted and overwhelmed, running on what she called “TTT”—tired all the time.

Amanda admitted she was stuck in overdrive, constantly “on.” Her creativity and energy were gone, leaving her feeling disconnected from herself. She hadn’t prioritised her own needs in years.

For some, the pressures of 2024 were compounded by menopause. Sleepless nights, brain fog, and mood swings made balancing work and personal life even harder.

Rachel and Amanda’s stories are far from unique. Across 2024, I’ve seen the same patterns emerge again and again—overwork, neglected self-care, and the hidden toll of life’s pressures. The good news? Reflection turns these struggles into lessons that can shape a stronger 2025.

2024: A Snapshot of Mental Health and Wellbeing

This year has highlighted key challenges that have affected leaders, professionals, and individuals alike:

1. The Rise of Workplace Stress
   Increasing workloads, tighter deadlines, and constant connectivity left many feeling overwhelmed. Rachel’s story is all too common: “I realised I was always ‘on,’ and it was draining my energy and creativity.”
2. The Cost of Putting Yourself Last
   Neglecting your own needs to support others can leave you emotionally depleted. Amanda discovered that saying yes to everyone else meant saying no to herself.
3. The Impact of Menopause
   For many women, menopause brought a new layer of challenges to their physical and mental health. From disrupted sleep to brain fog, these changes amplified the pressure to perform at work and home.
4. The Power of Connection
   This year also reminded us of the importance of genuine relationships. As hybrid work became the norm, many leaders prioritised connection, realising that mental health isn’t just an individual challenge—it’s a collective one.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we step into 2025, let me ask you this:

Have you found yourself feeling like Rachel or Amanda? Are you constantly tired, working long hours, and always putting others first? Maybe you’ve been neglecting time with family and friends, or you’re worried about your own health but unsure where to start.

For some, these challenges are compounded by menopause, with sleepless nights, mood swings, or brain fog adding to an already overwhelming workload.

Once the gifts have been unwrapped and the festivities are over, what’s the one gift you can give to yourself?

The answer: time, boundaries, and a commitment to your wellbeing.

Let’s make 2025 the year you prioritise your needs:

• Set boundaries that protect your energy.
• Commit to simple self-care rituals that nurture your mental and physical health.
• Reconnect with what brings you joy and fulfilment.

Don’t let another year slip by in exhaustion or uncertainty. Reflection is your first step to rewriting your story—and I’m here to help you create a stronger, healthier, and more balanced 2025. Together, we can make it happen.

P.S. Why wait for January to start feeling better? Reach out to me today, and let’s work together to help you set boundaries, rediscover your energy, and create a clear, actionable plan for 2025. This could be the most crucial step you take for yourself.

Mike Lawrence: Your Guide to Health & Wellbeing

I’m Mike Lawrence, a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing. After overcoming significant health challenges, including brain surgery, I’ve dedicated myself to a journey of self-improvement and helping others thrive. From heart-pounding skydives for charity to soul-enriching travels in Thailand, my experiences have shaped my approach to holistic health.

I love sharing the lessons I’ve learned from these adventures and from the powerful audiobooks I devour. Let’s explore the paths to better mental and physical health together. Embrace life’s adventures with enthusiasm and resilience, and remember—you’re never alone on this journey!

Feel free to reach out via email at hello@mikelawrence.co.uk or connect with me on LinkedIn. For more in-depth insights and inspiring stories, read my latest blogs here. Together, let’s create a healthier, happier future!