You can do anything, but not everything.

To quote Britney, ‘I did it again.’ Waited until the end of the year to slow down to a stop, and take stock of everything going on around me.

I seem to get to the end, and have similar thoughts to the last year. Similar in the steps taken, the developments, the progress which continue up this steady incline. But once again, it is appropriate to try and release the thoughts and feelings which 2017 have led me to.

It’s been momentous, the strides taken this year, collectively and individually on this pursuit of re-defining leadership and being a better person. Expanding and stretching perceived limitations of self, others and community. Our community. Which is developing, evolving and increasing in size in directions which I didn’t see coming. Influencing others to really listen, and lean in. The world is changing, our game is changing; we must adapt to meet the diverse conditions or risk being left behind.

The FA Youth Council is progressing, this season could be our moment. My Dad once told me, ‘what you do in the dark will always come into the light,’ we’re ready for the light to shine... and take centre stage when required.

But it’s not just about us here and now, it’s about the 12 years of effort and work which has been put in to get us to this point. Those who have worn the shirt before us, and moved the game and perception of youth leadership into a better place. Quite simply, I wouldn’t have had the year I have, without every ounce of effort, every minute invested, every person who has been involved within The FA Youth Leadership Programme. Every person.

In January I wrote myself a letter, the content can be found in an earlier blog. An open letter, preparing for the start of the end... thankfully preparation which has been delayed. The chapter ended, but the book didn’t.

Noticeably growing as a person, there have been so many milestones. Milestones I have against my name, but they don’t belong to me… to my team, to our community.

-Taking up the role to Chair the FA Youth Council.
-Being inducted onto FA Council, youngest person ever to do so.
-Attending and contributing at FA Committee & Representative meetings.
-Representing The FA, Youth Council and Young People in Romania working alongside UEFA, building bridges.
-Leading the transition of The FA Youth Council, striving.

The team are and continue to push the envelope, leading research into Youth Diversity in Football, implementing learning and development programmes, engaging and supporting County FAs to really see the importance of having young people within decision making processes. We’ve projects and programmes lined up, numerous requests and much deserved interest of others to access our expertise. Our sphere of influence is expanding, I believe rightly so.

Personally, I continue to astonish myself. Pushing my own capabilities, riding waves which were once a nice sight seen safely from the shore.

2017, has been emotional, for reasons beyond this blog, real life which transpired unexpectedly. Made bearable by surrounding myself with wonderful people, who I can’t wait to continue striding alongside with into 2018. 

I would try and close this blog with some words of wisdom, however they would be positive intentions which I don't uphold. Instead, here are my top 3 lessons from events this year...

- It's ok, not to be ok. 

Just don't live there, or try to fight it alone.. contrary to self belief - a lot of people care and want to help.

- Get your priorities right, for you.

Earlier this year my brother spent 2 nights in hospital having to have 2 operations following a playground incident. I had a choice, stay in Somerset and worry - or drive home to see him. Easy choice, I want Ben to grow up knowing he can depend on me, as I do for all of my close friends and family. 

- Time, it can be spent, wasted or invested.

Invest in the people who make your heart smile, in the activities which fuel your interest and in places where you can make a difference. Waste it wisely.

I've got so much to learn, get better at and should probably start with taking my own advice. 

In 2018, I can do anything.. but not everything.

SN