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.

💪Where can I take one courageous step before the year ends? 💪 How has your year been? I would venture to say that your answer would be that it has been a difficult year with both ups and downs. For me personally, this year has asked more of me than I expected. It has asked me to step into my next level of leadership. Even in difficult times, choose to step aside and let others lead. I had to "practice what I preach" and step aside so others could take responsibility and cre

What are your reflections on 2025? Positive, Negative or In-between? Throughout 2025, I have been reminded that digital leadership is more than focusing on people and technology. It's also about achieving the goals that set up an organisation for future success.

Are you struggling with the Chaos of life? the truth is that actual transformation doesn't happen in bursts of activity. It's born through quiet consistency, showing up every day, doing the small things that matter most, and trusting that they will add up.

There's truth in the old saying, "you cannot see the forest for the trees." When we don't stop and step back from the daily grind, we lose perspective and start focusing on the noise rather than what really matters.

Do you know who is the hardest person to lead on your team? The hardest person to lead is the one looking back at me in the mirror every morning.

There is a saying, "Great digital leaders don't rush to adopt the latest tech trend, they pause to ask why?

So, what trait matters most for leaders right now? Adaptability. In a world that keeps changing faster than we can predict, adaptability is what allows leaders to stay grounded while adjusting to shifting realities.

I was reminded at the end of last week of just how important it is to be part of a truly great team, because who you surround yourself with shapes not only your Success, but also your Growth. No one can know, understand, or do everything alone, not even with the help of a good AI assistant!

In many of my conversations with leaders about digital transformation, the conversation inevitably drifts towards tools, platforms, and solutions. Whereas for me the difference between a successful transformation and a stalled transformation isn't the software; it's the taking on of ownership by people.

In digital transformation, ambition and ideas are rarely the problem. More often, progress derails because outcomes aren't measured meaningfully or because leaders fail to adapt when the evidence says change is needed.

Today is the age of AI! This phrase conjures images of complex algorithms and dramatic change.

Although small, technology investment is a significant step in your transformation.

Are you a small cog in a Big Machine (project)? Can I influence the project outcomes?

You've decided to embrace AI in your business. What do you need to consider now.