This past year has been one of the most profound in my life, teaching me lessons I never anticipated. It’s shown
me the importance of listening to my body—not just enduring its pains, but understanding the messages they carry. It’s reminded me that healing often begins with acknowledgement and care. More than anything, this year has deepened my understanding of relationships and revealed the power of leaning into therapy to strengthen them.
Toward the end of 2024, my wife and I faced one of the hardest conversations of our 20-year marriage. It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. That moment propelled us into therapy and, as a result, brought us to a place of strength and love we had only dreamed of. Our relationship today is stronger, more compassionate, and more beautiful than it has ever been.
A remarkable lesson emerged alongside these moments of transformation. I discovered the immense power of showing up authentically, as I am, even in the face of fear or judgment. There was a moment during this past year that crystallized this truth for me. It was during a speaking engagement, where I found myself weighed down by doubts—not just as a professional, but as a person. My therapist’s words rang clear in my mind: “Everybody out there is just trying to figure out how to be OK being who they are. Why don’t you show them how to do it?”
Taking that advice to heart, I chose to step onto that stage and show up not as a perfect version of myself, but as my full, authentic self. What followed was one of the most impactful talks of my career—not because I had all the answers, but because I stood firmly in my truth. It reminded me of a simple yet profound reality: how we show up, boldly and unfiltered, often unlocks doors for others to do the same. Authenticity doesn’t just inspire; it transforms.
Gratitude for the People Who Shape Me
Throughout this year, my therapist has been an anchor of support, providing the insight and tools I needed to show up fully for myself and those I love. I’m deeply grateful for her guidance.
I’ve also been profoundly inspired by two incredible entrepreneurs I had the honor of working with. These restaurant owners transformed their business by transforming their ability to communicate. They went from a staggering 200% turnover rate to their best financial year yet, with a turnover of under 30%. Their courage, vision, and commitment to creating an environment of care—not just for each other, but for their employees and customers as well—left a lasting imprint on my heart.
To all of you who’ve supported me this year, whether through love, encouragement, or collaboration, thank you. Your presence in my life has been a gift beyond measure.
Celebrating Growth and Setting Intentions
Today, I celebrate the resilience of relationships, the courage to lean into hard conversations, and the beauty of
growth on the other side of discomfort. I honor those who’ve walked beside me, lifting me up and inspiring me to keep showing up authentically, vulnerably, and with intention.
Looking ahead, my heart is set on creating a half-day experience for women in business and leadership. My vision is to help them cultivate their authentic leadership presence, unlocking their strength and courage to lead boldly in their unique way. I remain committed to building connections rooted in authenticity, vulnerability, and shared purpose, as I continue navigating this breathtaking and complex world.
From the Heart
To my family, friends, colleagues, and clients, thank you. Whether you’ve trusted me as a coach, worked
alongside me in brave spaces, or even introduced me to new opportunities, your support has been the greatest gift of all. To those who’ve joined me in open water swims or offered connections on this path, your acts of kindness and belief in me mean more than words can express.
Here’s to stepping into the year with courage, purpose, and the joy of knowing we are stronger together. May we continue building relationships that serve not only ourselves but also the greater good. The ripple effects of our courage and connection are infinite, and I am grateful to be on this journey with you.
Here’s to your greatness,
Misti Burmeister
Misti Burmeister has been solving people problems and empowering leaders for nearly 20 years, increasing engagement and productivity across generations. Help your team reach its highest potential at https://www.MistiBurmeister.com