A previous client of mine was big on retrospectives; they would hold a retrospective meeting after every project and a retrospective at the end of the year. Watching how they worked, I learnt from them the value of looking back.
We’re often told ‘don’t look back, you’re not going that way!’, but there’s a lot to gain from reflection. Knowing what worked and what didn’t, what you want more of and less of, what you can work on.
The end of the year naturally brings an urge to reflect and take stock on the previous 12 months. There’s a lot I feel good about in my business for 2024, and while revenue is certainly only one measure of success, so far, this has financially been the best year ever for Mark My Words.
I share this because it’s also a year where I’ve really been the most vocal about what I believe in. So for those who were worried about ‘my brand’; who thought I might be too much, too divisive, too polarising, too political: Don’t worry, I’m good 😎
Did some people unfollow? Yes. Did that make a difference to my bottom line? Nope. Will I continue to use my voice in a way that feels true? 100%. Because shit, it feels good.
It’s been a year of ‘WTFs?’ (political, economical, environmental, humanitarian), and with that, for many (like me), a deeper connection to what truly matters.
One theme I’ve seen time and again—in conversations with clients and even in my own journey—is the growing importance of owning your voice as a personal brand.
Owning your voice isn’t just about speaking up. I’m not saying the way to bigger profit requires you to have some, shall-we-say, strong opinions like moi. 💁♀️ But it is about embracing who you are, standing firm in your values, and showing up as your authentic self. It’s about quiet confidence, clarity, and consistency.
This year, I’ve seen how powerful that can be, especially in a world that often feels overwhelmingly noisy, complex and, often, immoral.
Personally, I've been more conscious about who I choose to work with or where I spend my money. I'm not afraid to ask about a company's values, and how they are actually enacting them. I've looked for likeminded brands, ones who I can see are using their voice for good.
What does it mean to own your voice?
Owning your voice is about knowing who you are and communicating that with confidence. It’s not about shouting the loudest or being the flashiest in the room. Instead, it’s about:
Embracing your unique perspective. No one else sees the world quite like you do.
Staying true to your values. Your voice carries more weight when it’s rooted in authenticity.
Showing up consistently. Trust is built when people know what to expect from you.
Whether you’re building a personal brand, leading a team, or simply navigating life, owning your voice is the key to being recognised, remembered and referred to.
Importantly, the world doesn't need another vanilla, play-it-safe brand. The world needs entrepreneurs and brands who recognise that with their platform (whatever its size), they have an opportunity to contribute to something bigger; to use their voice and position for spreading the right messages, amplifying the right conversations, supporting the right people.
If I wanted to toe the line, do as I was told, keep quiet, I could just go get a job and nod my head politely. No thanks.
Maybe, like me, you got in to business not only for some lifestyle freedom, financial freedom or time freedom, but also thought freedom. The freedom to express yourself and stand up for what you believe in.
So, are you?
Here are my key lessons from 2024
1. You don’t need to be loud to be heard
In an era where everyone is competing for attention, it’s easy to think that you need to shout to stand out. But 2024 showed us that thoughtful, authentic voices often resonate the most.
I put less effort into creating social media content. I focused on reconnecting with my (much smaller) email audience and started sharing conversations I really care about on a podcast about purpose-led marketing and business. I looked after the people who look after me (like all the amazing folk who refer clients to me).
Whether you’re a quiet leader inspiring a team or a creator sharing meaningful stories, the message I want to share is this: it’s not about volume; it’s about value. When you focus on substance over style, people listen.
2. Clarity beats complexity
For me, the most compelling voices this year were the ones who knew how to cut through the noise with simplicity. Clarity is powerful. It’s about knowing what you stand for, communicating it clearly, and resisting the urge to overcomplicate your message. Being reactive to trends or trying to keep up with what competitors are doing can actually be the death of your brand, because: sorry but who are you exactly?
Think about your own voice: Have you been clear about what you bring to the table? Have you made it easy for people to understand your strengths and values? (If not, 2025 is the perfect time to start and I’ll have something to help you with that.)
3. Consistency builds credibility
One of the most underrated aspects of owning your voice is showing up consistently. Whether it’s through regular communication, sticking to your principles, or simply being present, consistency creates trust.
This year, I’ve seen countless examples of people who quietly but consistently delivered on their promises—and in doing so, built incredible credibility. Consistency isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up, even when it’s not polished. Having a messaging architecture, with key messaging pillars that keep you focused, will help you build that credibility, and make it easier to show up because you know what to say, and how to say it (and what makes your approach distinctive).
Looking ahead to 2025
As you reflect on 2024, ask yourself:
Has my voice felt in alignment with my values?
Where did I hold back?
What more could be possible for me if I really stepped into my personal brand in 2025?
The beauty of personal branding and self-expression is that it’s always evolving. And if you’re ready to step into 2025 with more confidence, clarity, and authenticity, I’m here to help.
In the new year, I’ll be launching a programme designed to help you define and own your own lane, differentiate yourself, and know exactly what to say to promote yourself. If that sounds like something you’d love to explore, keep an eye out—I’ll share all the details soon.
If 2024 taught me anything, it’s that your voice—your true, unapologetic voice—matters. It’s not about being perfect or polished. It’s about showing up, standing firm in who you are, and trusting that the right people will connect with what you have to say.
