This is the time that we all reflect on the past year, and plan for the next one. I consider myself blessed to do what I love every day and I want to thank our clients, my extended team and my communication colleagues for their contribution to our success.

Although plans may change from year to year, there are a few things that remain the same and I ask you all to reflect on how purpose, passion and gratitude impact your lives.

PURPOSE - I've always wanted to position internal communication as an integral enabler to organizational success. I've experience the 'magic' that happens when organizations are aligned from business strategy to employee delivery to customer experience. I want that for all organizations because when we enable, engage and empower our employees, we create organizations, leaders and people that perform and are proud of what they do every day. I realize how incredulous leaders are when they talk to me about what they want to accomplish and how we can use communication to connect the dots. There is a hunger out there for Strategic Internal Communication done right, and a frustration for tactics that simply create noise.

What is your purpose? What are you really meant to do, give and inspire?

PASSION - As I grow my business, I'm also consciously carving out time for my passion projects. Last year it became my inaugural Strategic Internal Communication Conference that we'll bring back to Toronto in November. In 2019 there are two projects that are on my radar:

• Introduction to Internal Communication - I would like to work with Internal Communication experts to create a definitive guide and corresponding online training that will provide Internal Communication basics. The Strategic Internal Communication conference highlighted the need for a back-to-basics approach since we're seeing a growth in Internal Communication roles but a lack of expertise. This means HR, PR, Marketing and other business leaders are getting the roles without a foundational understanding of skills and approach. I believe this has to be a collaborative effort with experts from around the world. Stay tuned for this.Introduction to Internal Communication - I would like to work with Internal Communication experts to create a definitive guide and corresponding online training that will provide Internal Communication basics. The Strategic Internal Communication conference highlighted the need for a back-to-basics approach since we're seeing a growth in Internal Communication roles but a lack of expertise. This means HR, PR, Marketing and other business leaders are getting the roles without a foundational understanding of skills and approach. I believe this has to be a collaborative effort with experts from around the world. Stay tuned for this.
• Wisdom in the Winery - My business journey has also been a personal growth journey for me over the past few years. I've realized that the changes needed to have the courage to follow my passion and purpose meant learning more about myself and getting rid of the negative self-talk. I worked with a variety of experts who helped me own my power and I'd love to build that same inner strength with others. We will provide insights, instrospection, inspiration, and indulgence. We'll learn how to get out of our own way and create discipline that builds self-worth and self-value. A friend thought of the name, but it's time to turn and idea into a reality. My goal is to create one launch event this year and see what happens.

My passion projects allow me to take safe risks and try new things. Some may do well and some may fail, but that's okay as long as they are part of my learning process.

What are you passionate about?

GRATITUDE - This past year, we grew our team of consultants who are passionate about internal communication. I got a chance to speak across North America and bring leaders from across North America to my own Strategic Internal Communication Conference and encourage peers to have more courage and fight for internal communication done right. I worked with amazing clients and learned and contributed to their businesses.

I have a lot to be thankful for so I think it's important to also give back. This year, Inner Strength Communication donated $1000.00 to RedDoorShelter to empower women, children and families affected by homelessness and abuse. As a child who remembers fleeing an abusive home with her mother and siblings with no place to go, this cause is near and dear to my heart and I feel so blessed to be in a position to contribute this year.

Another opportunity to show gratitude and give to our profession is through presentations, webinars and awards evaluation. This past year, I worked with IABC chapters, The Circle of Fellows and technology partners who asked for my help. Although I don't have time for as many 1:1s, I do try to choose opportunities that will reach more people.

What are you thankful for? How do you give back?

When I started Inner Strength Communication almost five years ago, I didn't realize how personal this journey would be. Inner Strength is not only about building your game professionally, but personally as well. I want to wish you all a 2019 filled with purpose, passion and gratitude. Thank you for your continued support and inspiration.

Priya