“Even if something is left undone, everyone must take time to sit still and watch the leaves turn.” Elizabeth Lawrence
November 2025 is a special month for me. Let me tell you why.
Like the queen, my business has several birthdays. I have one anniversary on the 2nd August, the date of the first paid client. But the one that I stick to more is the 2nd November. On that date in 2015, The Balance Collective was my only job, my only source of income! That means, this month, it’s 10 years since I started. As my original plan was to “give it a year and see what happens”, I’m super proud that I’m able to write this, celebrating my “tin” anniversary.
I wanted to say a special thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey since then. I wouldn’t still be here without you!
Birmingham City University Graduate+ Week (week commencing 3rd November)
As always, I’m looking forward to supporting the staff, finalists and students at BCU for their wonderful Graduate+ Week. I’ll be sharing my three workshops ( How to craft your work-life balance, How to create boundaries for your wellbeing and How to build confidence and resilience in an ever-changing world) , helping them with their wellbeing and employability. If you know anyone linked to the University, feel free to give them a nudge to book onto my sessions. It will be worth their time!
Likewise, if you would like these (or more ) delivered for your team, please reach out!)
November Ask Me Anything in on 10th November at 11am
Its’s your regular chance to “pick my brains for free”. Ask me anything about careers, balance, confidence, business, books or return to work, and I will answer in Creating Careers to Enjoy on the 10th. As usual, the blog will host the written version, for you to read at your leisure. HIT reply to send me your query,
Personal Development Readalong: 24th November at 20:30
All the best things happen in Creating Careers to Enjoy, including this month’s Book Club Chat. The November book is The Phone Fix (how to transform your smartphone habits).
“What is really happening in your brain when you use your phone, and how to harness it.
We pick up our phones on average 80 times a day, and approximately a quarter of our waking hours are spent in front of a screen. We self-interrupt our work and social lives, forgo sleep, procrastinate important tasks and opt for digital distraction when we’re bored or feel uncomfortable. Worst-case scenario, we’re told phone use is melting our brains, creating a mental health epidemic and machines are taking over the world.
But how much of this is true and what can we do about it?
NHS neurology doctor and neuroscientist Faye Begeti explains the science behind why we have formed so many fixed and negative habits around our devices. She reflects on both deliberate choices and automatic behaviours, whilst also challenging myths around digital ‘addiction’, the harmfulness of blue light and how dopamine functions in the brain.”
You can find the book, and others, in my bookshop shop!
Blog catch-up!
If you have missed the October blogs, here they are in one handy place!
How can I future proof my career against AI?
How your life experiences can change your values
Why every employer needs a parent and carer group
The four questions employers need to ask their team
Book Review: Good Girl Deprogramming by Michelle Minnikin
Availability for new and existing clients
My diary is updated until I break up for the festive season, so grab yourself an instant call spot to talk about my coaching or wellbeing training packages, for you or your team. You can find the diary link here, and I will give you a call!
There is still time to start building a career you enjoy and close 2025 with a flourish!
What are your November plans, I’d love to know!
Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
