I have a confession to make...I reached 10 years in business without enjoying any kind of business networking. I used to think networking was really cliquey. I thought it was for formal corporate types and, a bit like Fort Knox, hard to infiltrate.

When you set out to achieve a goal, your secret weapon is being absolutely clear on what your goal is. Clarity gives you focus and confidence, and creates a buzz of energy and excitement to drive you on to achieve it.

They say we all have at least one book in us, don’t they. We hear it all the time. I didn’t think I had a book in me and didn’t really believe in this saying - until I started working with someone who encouraged me to think differently.

Customer expectations have changed. What we want right now is to feel safe and secure when we are making a purchase or interacting with a business.

It’s amazing when you can see, hear and feel an organisation’s culture and Values being brought to life. And it all starts with the leaders. So what actions can leaders take to ensure they lead the Values consistently?

Values are critical to guiding your business, leaders and team. Zest for Life is no different. I strive to lead by example and follow a set of three Values which guide us to deliver exceptional business results.

If I asked you to describe your personal values you might share a few words you try to live your life by. For most of us this is an easy task. Our values are important to us.

When you want to make a change, think carefully about why you’re doing it. The greater the emotional connection you have to the change, the better. Be super clear in your mind about what the change looks, feels, and sounds like.

How do you feel about planning? Are you on-it organised or more of a free-flyer? Do you make a plan and keep referring to it? Or do you start with the best intentions and gradually lose focus?

As the year draws to its festive conclusion, it’s natural to look forward and make plans, perhaps think about a change of role or career direction. And this year it feels like the wave of change in the job market is stronger than ever.

Imagine you’ve just started a fabulous new job. You’re feeling super enthusiastic about it, and potentially a little bit anxious in anticipation of what’s ahead.

What words come to mind when you look at these two leaders? What characteristics do they have that make them stand out to you as a great leader? What kind of legacy do you think will leave behind?

Exceptional service creates a lasting impression. It puts a spring in the customer’s step and makes you stand out from your competitors.

True professionals take ownership of their personal development, making sure their skills, knowledge and behaviour are up to date. Dedicating time to training and development can be tricky and finding budget sometimes even more so.

Building personal connections with your customers drives loyalty and recommendation. In turn, this contributes to business success and provides job security.

I’ve had some great roles in my career as a Hotel Manager and Learning and Development Manager in some amazing organisations. The businesses that were most successful were always super clear about their aspirations for any development programme.

Sometimes we’re not honest with ourselves because we know deep down that to get the results we want it’s going to take time and discipline to make it happen. The word discipline has painful connotations - discipline hurts!

I’ve never forgotten about it or how it made me feel. This person’s behaviour had a lasting impact on me. It’s made me more cautious around him. I’m perhaps not as open with him as I would be with others.

The concept that it takes time to do a job properly is nothing new, however knowing it and doing it are two very separate things. Sometimes we need a little reminder to refocus.

It’s time to celebrate the fact that we got through this weird and challenging year. It’s time to celebrate the silver linings of 2020. Sally looks back at the highlights and achievements of a difficult year.