Have you seen the In and Out trend floating around the internet? I’d be surprised (and maybe jealous of your offline lifestyle) if you haven’t! Many folks online are sharing what they consider to be “in” right now as we kick off 2024 — the things that get us excited, we aspire to, and we want more of in our lives. They’re also sharing what’s “out” — the things they’re leaving behind in hopes of growth in the new year.
So, here’s what’s IN and OUT for Kitestring:
IN
1. Mutual Aid
Because we’re in this together. In times where the world is suffering — which feels to be increasing every day — mutual aid is the best way forward. One of our favourite examples of a mutual aid initiative in Hamilton, ON is Community Fridges HamOnt and other community fridges across the city that provide fresh food and canned goods to people in need of food supports. If mutual aid is in for you too, we suggest volunteering.
2. Self-Reflection
My favourite part of new year’s traditions is taking time to reflect, zoom out, and look at your business (and your life!) as a whole. It’s good to be honest about what’s working, what’s not, and identify new priorities and possibilities. After a big year of transition in 2023, I’m going to try to keep the self-reflection vibes going all year round.
3. Getting Playful + Having Fun
One of my new year’s resolutions is to get to the pottery studio at least once a week. I love creating and working with clay; it’s screen-free, messy, challenging, and brings great reward when something turns out. Creating just for the fun of it is in (read: please remind me of this if I get too caught up in the busyness of non-creative pursuits).
4. Bold Colours
I’m feeling inspired by bold colours and pattern combos. I recently transformed an old office space in my house into a living room – and it has a whole new life thanks to splashes of colour and bold art. Colour is definitely in! Check out the latest mural by Sam Estrabillo at Jackson Square for the proof of the difference some colour can make!
5. Office Dogs
I adopted my new dog, Allan (rescued via Save Our Scruff!), over the holiday break and he’s been joining me in the office most days of the week. He’s already brought so much calm and joy to my work day — don’t tell any former co-workers but he’s definitely the best co-worker I’ve ever had. Allan makes me really tune into my surroundings – he’s anti big-rumbly-engines (same!) and loves a routine. Allan is helping me stay present and also enforcing regular breaks. Office dogs are definitely in.
OUT
1. Indecisiveness
I spend a lot of time trying to make the best decisions. Going forward, I’m leaning into decisiveness. It doesn’t mean I can’t weigh my options, but sometimes I forget that I just need to lead with my values above all else. I often know what I want or need to do right away, and I can trust myself to make the decisions I need to.
2. Self-Isolating
All of my biggest wins in 2023 happened in collaboration with others – from amazing clients to strong collaborations with colleagues. Time and time again I am reminded that creativity is sparked when people come together.
This is true well beyond the workplace — I’m into new conversations, deepening relationships, and showing up for other people. Plus, with Allan around there’s no chance of alone time in the foreseeable future – he’s a stage 5 clinger (and I’m here for it)!
3. People Pleasing
This one is a big ever-evolving out! When you value collaboration like I do, it’s important to find the line between hearing people out, listening to feedback, and people pleasing for the sake of people pleasing. I’m forever working to keep my values centered, share honest feedback, and maintain the boundaries that keep my world spinning in a way that brings me fulfillment. The goal is not to keep everyone happy, the goal is to build strong connections and create big impact.
So, that’s what’s in and out over at Kitestring. We’d love to know what’s in and out for you and your business this year!
