On New Year’s Day, a great friend whom I had known for 47 years, passed away suddenly from a heart attack.
He was 61 years old, with four daughters and seven grandchildren. A life that should have been full of upcoming milestones was unexpectedly cut short.
It is a sobering reminder that we don’t know how much time we have.
The suddenness of his passing was a wake-up call for me, not just in my personal life, but also in my business.
Life, as we all know, can be unpredictable. We may plan, strategise, and build, but none of us are guaranteed tomorrow.
It’s easy to float along and take things for granted - our relationships, our work, even our health. But what we need to remember is that no matter where we are in life or business, every day is a gift.
This is the lesson I carry with me as I move forward into 2025: Don’t take your life or your business for granted.
The world moves fast, and sometimes we forget to pause and appreciate where we are, what we’ve accomplished, and the people who have helped us get there.
In business, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle - always focusing on the next thing, the next client, the next project. In doing so, we risk overlooking the small moments that matter the most, whether it's a simple conversation with a colleague or taking the time to celebrate a job well done.
It’s essential to say 'yes' to life - yes to opportunities, yes to invitations, and yes to moments of joy. My lovely friend lived a happy life full of family, friendships, and laughter, and I know for sure that his willingness to embrace every moment, no matter where he was or who he was with, is what made his life so rich.
Too often, we find ourselves caught up in the 'business of business', saying no to things we don’t think are necessary, but sometimes the most important opportunities come when we step out of our comfort zone.
In business, this mindset translates to growth. Always keep learning, keep adapting, and keep moving forward. If you’re not focused on growth, you risk stagnation - not just in your business but in your life as well.
Every connection, every new idea, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow. It's about continually evolving and making sure that your business reflects who you are and where you want to go.
One of the best ways to ensure your business is always growing and evolving is by keeping your website updated.
Your website is your digital storefront, and in today’s fast-paced world, it’s often the first point of contact a potential client or customer has with you. Make sure it reflects the heart of your business - who you are, what you stand for, and what you offer.
It’s not just about 'having a website' - it needs to be relevant, compelling, and up-to-date so that it helps you stay connected to the people you serve.
As we move through 2025, let’s remember that every moment is precious. Make time for the things that matter, say yes to the invitations that come your way, and never stop investing in the growth of both our personal lives and our businesses.
And in honour of my dear, long-time friend, I plan to never take for granted the time I have. I encourage you to do the same.
Here’s to fully embracing life and business, today and every day.
RIP MJD.
