When I sat down to write this last newsletter of 2024, I thought about reflecting on the year that’s been. But honestly? This year wasn’t one of my best. It felt like I was stuck in second gear—plans didn’t pan out, motivation dipped, and I wasn’t exactly firing on all cylinders.

But then it hit me—why focus on what’s already behind us? The past is the past. Nothing we do now will change it. All we can do is learn from it, take the lessons forward, and keep moving. Like the Stoics say, “What’s done is done. The only thing we can control is how we respond.”

That’s not to say the year was all bad. There was plenty of good too—moments that made me laugh, people who reminded me why community matters, and lessons that might not have been fun to learn but will come in handy. It’s just easy to let the hard stuff drown that out if you’re not careful.

So, instead of dwelling on what didn’t go right, I’m looking ahead to 2025. A fresh start. A blank canvas. Let’s focus on the good we’ve got, keep our eyes on what’s important, and aim to make it a year we’ll be proud of.

Here’s to closing the chapter on 2024 and stepping into 2025 with a bit more purpose, a lot more gratitude, and maybe a dash of adventure. Let’s see where it takes us.

In Todays Newsletter:

• Homework for Life: A Simple Practice to Transform 2025

• Building Something Bigger: My Plan to Buy a Business in 2025

Homework for Life: A Simple Practice to Transform 2025

I recently stumbled across a concept called Homework for Life from a storyteller named Matthew Dicks, and I have to say, it really struck a chord with me. The idea is pretty simple: at the end of every day, you take a moment to reflect and figure out the most story-worthy thing that happened to you. Check it out »>Here«<

Now, let’s be real—this isn’t about finding some earth-shattering event every day. Most days aren’t like that. It’s about noticing the small stuff—the moment that made you laugh, a challenge you overcame, or even just something a little out of the ordinary. It’s about finding those little sparks that make each day unique.

How Homework for Life Works

1. Think Back on Your Day

   Before you go to bed, ask yourself: If I had to tell someone a story about today, what would it be?

2. Record the Moment

   Some people write it down in a journal, but I’m planning to do something a bit different. I’m going to record a short 2-3 minute video at the end of each day where I talk about the story. Nothing fancy—just me sharing the best bit of my day.

3. Keep It Up

   The key is to make it a habit. Even if it feels like there’s “nothing interesting” in your day, trust me—there’s always something.

Why I Like the Idea

This practice is about paying attention to the good stuff—the things we often miss when life feels like a blur. Here’s what I think Homework for Life could do for me (and maybe for you, too):

• Slow Down Time: When you’re noticing the moments that matter, days stop flying past in a haze.

• Build a Personal Story Bank: Imagine looking back in a year and having a collection of stories—big and small—that capture your year.

• Practice Gratitude: Even on tough days, finding one good moment reminds you there’s always something worth appreciating.

Want to Join Me?

So this is what I’m starting in 2025. Every day, I’ll record my little story for the day, and I’m inviting you to join me. You don’t have to do videos—jot it down, record a voice note, or even just think about it.

If you’re keen to give it a go and want a bit of accountability (because, let’s be honest, we all get lazy sometimes), reply to this email and let me know. Maybe we can set up a little group where we check in and keep each other on track.

Let’s make 2025 a year of stories worth telling. Who’s in?

Building Something Bigger: My Plan to Buy a Business in 2025

One of the biggest things I’ve decided to do in 2025 is buy a business. It’s been on my mind for a while now, and after watching videos from people like Cody Sanchez and chatting with Warren and Sandy, I know this is the year I make it happen.

The thing is, there are hundreds of amazing businesses out there. Baby boomers are retiring, selling businesses they’ve spent decades building—solid, profitable businesses with loads of potential. The problem? I don’t have the cash flow to throw down a huge deposit and buy one on my own.

That’s why I’ve been thinking: why not do this with a group of people?

Doing This as a Group

I’d love to put together a co-op or a small group of people—ideally, a bunch of South Africans—who are keen to invest, bring their skills, and grow something amazing together. Here’s why this makes sense to me:

1. We Can Actually Afford It: Pooling resources means we can buy a bigger, better business than any of us could on our own. It’s simple math: together, we can do more.

2. Spread the Risk: I’d rather own a piece of several businesses than put all my eggs in one basket. It’s less stressful, and it’s a smarter way to invest.

3. Bring in Different Skills: Imagine having a team where each person brings something different to the table—finance, marketing, operations, you name it. We wouldn’t just buy the business; we’d take it to the next level.

Let’s Make It Happen

I will buy a business this year. Whether it’s on my own or with a group, it’s happening.

If you know of any businesses for sale or have connections in that world, let me know! If this idea excites you and you’re thinking, “I’d love to get in on something like this,” reply to this email. Whether you’re keen to invest, bring your skills, or just want to hear more, let’s talk.

2025 is the year to make bold moves, and this is mine. Let’s see where it takes us.

Rounding Off

That’s it for this last newsletter of 2024. As we wrap up the year, I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey—whether you’ve attended events, supported the South African community, or just read along and shared a piece of your time with me.

Here’s to 2025: a year of connection, growth, and making things happen. Let’s stay more connected, support each other, and make it an awesome one.

Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy New Year and an incredible 2025!

Cheers,

Callie