Happy last week of 2025!

Every December, I get really really excited to think about what’s next. I find the darkness of Boston winter makes it really easy to plan, brainstorm, and think about the next year. In the past, I’ve created vision boards and filled out my giant calendar. And usually I focus on themes of things I think I want to achieve. 

I focus on themes because a lot can change in a year. And chasing progress as I change and grow is way more fun than sticking to an explicit checklist set by someone in the past.  

Throughout the past 12 months, I’ve worn a lot of hats and accomplished a lot: product manager in big tech, content creator, and hardware hobbyist. But my ever changing dreams and ideas make it really hard to figure out what to prioritize and what to say out loud.

What if I change my mind? Or get knocked off course? Or fail?

But then again, what if it all works out? 

My four focuses of 2026, inspired by this LinkedIn post, are Work, Play, Love, Health. And since this is a professional newsletter, we’re focusing on Work & Play. 

Work: 

At work, I want to become someone who is heavily invested in the numbers behind the sales pipeline. I have made huge strides in the traditional domain of product management, so now it’s time to expand my scope. I know that learning how to build out and leverage a sales funnel will build muscles will translate everywhere, even in my creative world.  

As for my content business, I’m making public speaking a real focus. I’ve been obsessed with the idea of being a moderator and public speaker for years. This year, I’m determined to take action. I want to be where the big ideas are discussed. The plan is simple: apply to two conferences each month, aiming for at least one speaking gig a quarter. 

Play: 

If you’ve been around for a while, you know I love talking about side projects and how they can help you be a better product manager. Especially in the age of vibe coding and AI assisted building, building out a side project that solves a real problem will set you apart in product and product adjacent roles. 

This year, I started working on building a tidal buoy and learning how to build with electronics. It’s been a steep learning curve but I’ve recently tapped into a builders community in my local area. And in 2026, I want to build and launch something that lives (literally) in the ocean. 

I’m really excited for 2026 and can’t wait to see where I am next December. 

And I want to hear from you – what are your themes and ambitions for 2026? Let me know by replying to this email. 

See you in 2026,