My Word for 2026: Exponential
Annette Garsteck Annette Garsteck

My Word for 2026: Exponential

Resolutions tend to focus on outcomes. A guiding word focuses on orientation. It shapes how I think, how I move, and how I decide…especially when things feel busy or uncertain.

For me, that shift has made all the difference.

Read More
What You’re Getting Wrong About Performance Reviews
Annette Garsteck Annette Garsteck

What You’re Getting Wrong About Performance Reviews

What You’re Getting Wrong About Performance Reviews
Performance reviews don’t have to feel adversarial. Learn what employees and leaders often get wrong—and how to approach annual reviews with confidence and intention.

Read More
The Books That Stayed With Me This December
Annette Garsteck Annette Garsteck

The Books That Stayed With Me This December

December was a heavy reading month for me; I finally finished several that had been sitting on my personal development shelf for a while. And by read, I mainly mean listened.

Two books I’m still thinking about are by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy.

These two books have inspired me to add a few options to my word-of-the-year target list… more to follow on that in late January.

Read More
A Look Back Before We Step Forward
Annette Garsteck Annette Garsteck

A Look Back Before We Step Forward

As this year comes to a close, I am evaluating where I am based on where I started. I usually measure myself against an ideal future version of me. This way of measuring only sells me short. To truly evaluate success, we have to look back. To where we started. This perspective shift really resonated with me, and I wanted to share it with you as you reflect on your own year.

Read More