Distinguishing between the AI hype and AI reality isn't straightforward. Understanding what will actually have a real-world impact and deliver ROI comes with practical experience or leveraging others with the knowledge and expertise. This is what I learnt.

I was thinking about how we moved from the AI "hype" to AI permeating almost all of our day-to-day lives. Whether for business or personal use, it seems here to stay and expand. My conversations on AI a year or two ago were mostly speculative. Today, AI shows up in nearly every conversation, ranging from solutions and tools to influencing strategic decisions.

“If you can’t do it faster, I’ll get someone who will.” I’ve heard versions of this more than once over the past 10–15 years. Not always said this bluntly. Often implied. Sometimes wrapped in urgency, sometimes framed as innovation, sometimes positioned as necessity.

The start of the year demands focused attention. A few years ago, as the year kicked off, I made a series of decisions after careful consideration that all felt right at the time. I found myself saying “yes” to extra work, to reasonable requests, to opportunities that made sense in isolation. That experience changed how I approach the start of a year. I now pay closer attention to the pressure points that don’t appear obvious early on.

The Obvious Question: “How do I set my team up for success this year?” Is it really? In my experience, I have found that starting to create momentum at the end of the year is important.

Have you heard the saying, “Actions speak louder than words”? It’s fascinated me, in hindsight, how much my approach to planning, New Year’s resolutions, and goal-setting has changed over time.

I am sure you have been told, "Communication is Key!" At the start of a new year, there’s pressure to communicate certainty, confidence, and momentum.

So 2026 is here and I sure you are asking "How do I start strong?" I had to take a moment as the calendar flipped. For most of us, this should be a time of reflection.

When we are navigating our way through the year, we do not realise the impact of friction on our paths. Most of us, myself included, tend to focus on achieving the outcome or goal rather than removing friction from our paths.

Leadership That Builds Momentum: What does this mean? This is a loaded question! We do not build momentum alone. We can lead, inspire and encourage, but momentum is built in conjunction with your team and the people around you!