What Worked and What Didn’t in 2023: A Year of Growth and Exploration

My word of the year for 2023 was focus. I’m going to let you in on what worked, and what sucked in both my business and personal life, and how I’m barreling head first into 2024 with a new word and a new set of goals.

As I reflect on the hustle that was my 2023, I'm filled with gratitude for the adventures, love, challenges, and moments that shaped this transformative year. It's been a journey worth revisiting, from traversing stunning ski slopes to navigating business ventures, celebrating milestones, and a ton of personal growth. And I don’t know about you, but I need a nap after 2023.

What Worked in 2023

Travel Adventures

One of my biggest wins was all the traveling I got to do in 2023. Traveling helps me relax, learn, and grow as a person.

The year kicked off with many ski trips with my boyfriend Nate and sometimes our collective kids across Tahoe, Whistler, and Utah. Introducing my son Ryder to skiing was one of those parent moments that made me so happy and proud.

Exploring Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Boston, Hawaii, Maine, and several other destinations brought unforgettable experiences, where I learned new business skills, created content, visited family, had romantic getaways, and basked in the glory of nature.

Business Endeavors

I’m a lifelong learner and I LOVE to take online courses, coaching, and go to conferences. In the realm of business, it was a year of expansion. I expanded my knowledge and revenue streams by launching an Etsy shop for print-on-demand products called Tee Shirt Bonus and ventured into the pet treats market by becoming the Creative Director of BiteMe! Goat Treats. I welcomed two talented individuals to my team at Alisha Arnold, contracted for Ariat International, and explored the Amazon influencer sphere. I also decided to sell one of my Rentals Lodi Landing to reinvest in the Bay Area.

Creating Personal Stability

I recently went through a divorce, relocated to the Bay Area, and have been trying to fit the pieces of my life back together. In 2023 I focused on creating stability for myself and my son. Part of that process was selling my rental Lodi Landing and buying a house in the Bay Area. Another thing I focused on was growing my businesses. And the third item that helped create stability was focusing on my mental health. I’m happy to report that I just closed on a house in the Bay Area, my businesses are doing great, and I have learned so many new tools to help deal with anxiety, I feel like I’m starting 2024 off on an amazing foundation.

What was Total Crap in 2023

I Hustled too Hard

I worked all the time, I worked on vacations, I worked on weekends, and I NEVER took a break. Burnout was feeling very real by the end of 2023, and I knew I needed to make some changes. Despite working every waking hour, I always felt like I was behind. I have a 50/50 schedule with my sweet son, and I was always feeling like when he was in my care I was at 50% capacity at work and when he was with his dad I was playing catch up. I’m my own boss and I needed to fire me.

I Neglected my Physical Fitness

In 2023, I was working extremely long hours on the computer and neglecting my physical fitness. I hardly worked out, I wasn’t focusing on healthy food, and I didn’t schedule a single doctor’s appointment in 2023 (unless it was urgent care.) My fitness partner was also in a workout slump in 2023, so I didn’t have the usual kick in the butt to get going that I normally have. 2023 what was with you? Also, Jess let’s get back at it ;)

I Didn’t spend much time with Friends

I work from home, so I was starting to feel very isolated, mostly talking to coworkers via Zoom meetings and only meeting up with my girlfriends maybe once a month. Sh*t was getting weird, to say the least. Also, I feel like I forgot how to put on clothes and I own 25 pairs of black leggings, what are jeans again?

Setting Intentions for 2024

After a LOT of reflection on how I want to improve my life in 2024 I chose my new word of the year and that is CONNECTION. I want to connect with myself, my family, and also YOU my audience.

I want to slow down the hustle, so I can connect with my body and get healthier this year. I want to feel like I worked my best day, so I can be present and connect with my family. I want to listen to what YOU want and need from me as a coach, so I can connect and serve my audience.

I’ve decided that in 2024 I am going to relaunch 1:1 coaching, so I can connect and serve a few special individuals on their short term rental journey. And I’m also going to launch group coaching a little later this year. I have found immense value in all the coaching I have taken in 2023, and I want to give that same level of attention to you, my amazing audience.

Join Me in Shaping the Future

Your insights matter greatly to my brand evolution. Help me serve you better and shape the future of my brand by taking a brief survey. By participating, you not only contribute to the evolution of my brand but also stand a chance to win big—$100 of my favorite Amazon Goodies, a Custom Short Term Rental Tee Shirt of your choosing, and 2 1:1 coaching sessions with me. A $500 value. I’ll be picking a winner by Valentine’s Day 2024.

Let's make 2024 a year of growth, connection, and shared success. Thank you for being part of my incredible community.

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