Looking back on 2024: A year of growth, freedom and resilience

2024 started with an unexpected twist. At the end of January I heard that my job with my then employer would end. That news hit hard and inevitably had a big impact. At that moment, starting my own business felt like the only solution – a choice I made with my children in mind. With a little one of 1 and an almost toddler of 5, I wanted to be available to them as much as possible. Fortunately, grandparents are happy to help, but we deliberately do not use after-school care. That choice suited us and our situation, but of course required flexibility.

The adventure of Hello Daphne

On July 1, the time had come: I started my own company. Hello Daphne was born, and with it a new adventure full of freedom, challenges and, above all, many learning moments. The freedom to be with my children was worth everything. I saw how much good it did them that I was there for them. The big and small moments together - from rainy craft afternoons to sunny days in the park - nothing can beat that.

Yet starting your own business wasn't just about freedom. It also taught me how important marketing and sales are. Because as an entrepreneur you are suddenly not only the executor of your profession, but also your own promoter, salesperson and accountant. That was sometimes tough, but above all educational.

Rock bottom and recovery

This year also had a difficult period. Between January and April I was often sick, and in April it reached a low point. Due to a combination of stomach flu and low blood pressure, I fainted - just at the wrong time, right before the stairwell. I came to halfway through my fall, but ended up at the bottom of the stairs with a mild concussion, a hole in my head, a sore shoulder and a bruised back. A big blow, literally and figuratively.

The recovery was not always easy, but it taught me to listen to my body even better. Health is so precious and I am grateful to be back on my feet, stronger than ever.

Freedom, growth and creativity

Above all, 2024 was a year of freedom and growth. I have never felt so free to do what I like and enjoy my family at the same time. I also found something that I had lost for a long time: my creativity. Starting Hello Daphne gave me space to dream again, design and build something that is truly mine. I also met many new people, from entrepreneurs to customers, who all made my year better in their own way.

Ready for 2025

As I look back on 2024, I feel mostly gratitude. It was a year of challenges, of falling and getting back up again, but also of enjoyment and discovery. I look forward to 2025 with great curiosity – to new projects, new meetings and new growth.

Thank you for being part of my journey. Whether you are a customer, fellow entrepreneur, or just someone who reads my blogs: your support means everything.

On to a beautiful 2025!

Would you like to work together in the new year on a fresh website or creative plans? Feel free to contact me via my website!