Tales from a Bruised Mind

2024 was a big year. I travelled to the other side of the world for work, wrote hundreds of car articles, presented plenty of video reviews with http://www.chasingcars.com.au and, between all that, managed to find the time to come home to Queensland to see family.

But 2025 is going to be even bigger.

For starters, I’m starting a new job on January 9 with a company called Dentsu, the largest advertising and PR agency in Japan, and the fifth largest globally. It’s up there with the likes of Edelman and Weber Shandwick.

But don’t fret: I’m not giving up my dream of working in the automotive space.

My major client at Dentsu Creative PR – based in Sydney – will be the global Chinese automaker Geely, so I most definitely will not be losing the automotive part of my job.

It’s going to be a busy year with many exciting new challenges, but here’s my tips for preparing for a big year ahead.

1. Take a proper break from screens and technology and rest up

I have been very fortunate to take several weeks off between my old and new jobs, which I think is important to avoid burnout and fatigue. I spent a lot of the holiday time getting away from screen time and reading books, swimming at the beach, fishing, and going for drives in the countryside. I feel it’s made a huge difference.

2. Spend time with your family and loved ones

Christmas and New Years can be a challenging time for families. I get it – we don’t always get along. But to see your family over the beginning of the new year is very important and a good way to catch up with those you haven’t seen for what could quite possibly be a long time! I value family above all else, so I find this time of year to be great.

3. Get outside and exercise

Move your body in some way. You don’t have to run a marathon but to get outside and do something to move yourself will very likely make you feel better in the long run – puns aside.

4. Do as little as possible

Read a book. Walk the dog. Be a couch potato. Whatever works for you! Just take it easy, because the year ahead will be a busy one.

Have a great new year and I hope the next 12 months is good for all of you.

Love,

Zak