2024 has been a whirlwind of challenges, achievements, and lessons that have strengthened me. Though it didn’t go exactly as planned, the year has taught me valuable lessons that I will carry forward into 2025 and beyond.

At the start of 2024, I was set on entering my first car race. Financial constraints meant that it had to be postponed, but I’ve learned to celebrate my progress, even if it isn’t the height I was aiming for.

Competing in endurance karting for two years has laid a solid foundation, and this year brought some of my best performances yet.

Starting university in September was another significant milestone. As well as signifying the first step on my career path in sports science, it allowed me to compete in the British University Karting Championship (BUKC), where I’ve already contributed to Portsmouth’s qualification for the premier mains class. October marked my first practice session at a track and kart I’ve never driven (Whilton Mill and Club100 2-stroke karts), and November saw us qualify for the highest level of competition in the country. It’s been a thrilling experience, and I’m excited for what’s to come.

This year also brought new experiences, like my first taste of sim league racing in the BUSR F1 Winter Championship. These ventures have only deepened my love for motorsport and reinforced my commitment to making it my career. Learning what it takes to be quick on the sim has undoubtedly made me a faster and more confident racing driver.

Achievements Beyond Racing

2024 wasn’t just about racing. It was also a year of personal and professional growth. I reached a personal milestone by running 1,000 miles throughout the year. Additionally, I’ve continued to build, pivot, and grow Hanscombe Performance, creating the foundation for the future, whatever that may be.

Running 1,000 miles taught me the value of discipline and consistency, crucial qualities on and off the track.

Lessons from 2024

This year has been filled with lessons from both karting and sim racing. Understanding the art of racecraft and how to stay calm under pressure has been pivotal in my development.

Failure is an inevitable part of life. Without it, we wouldn’t grow. It is the lessons you take from failure which can drive you to a new level. Here are the lessons I learnt in 2024 that I think might help you:

Consistency

My biggest achievements this year didn’t come from one single effort, they came as a result of consistently showing up day after day. This same principle applies to everything in life. Small, consistent actions compound over time to create meaningful progress.

Adaptability

Life doesn’t always go as planned, but staying flexible and adjusting your goals as circumstances change is vital. For me, 2024 was a lesson in shifting focus without losing sight of the bigger picture. The path to success is unique for everyone, so we shouldn’t compare with anyone and stay adaptable to overcome adversity.

Action Over Perfection

You don’t have to have everything figured out from day one. The only thing standing between you and your goals is action. No one else will put in the work for you, so take that first step, even if you don’t think you’re ready. You’ll figure it out through action.

Goal-Setting for 2025

I’m breaking down 2025 into four chunks, making my big goals for the year more manageable. Each quarter has its own goals in the different areas of my life. They are broken down more into months, weeks, and eventually days where I aim to develop daily habits that compound to reach my big goals for the year.

• Yearly Goals: Set a big target to achieve by the end of the year.

• Quarterly Goals: Define what you want to achieve every three months.

• Monthly Focus: Narrow it down further into specific objectives for each month.

• Weekly and Daily Actions: Identify small, actionable steps you can take daily to stay on track.

This approach creates sustainable systems that help you achieve your goals, no matter how big or small.

Closing Thoughts

2024 has been a year of growth and resilience, and I’m grateful for the experiences that have shaped me. As we move into 2025, remember to stay consistent, flexible, and action-oriented. The journey is just as important as the destination.

Next year holds exciting plans, including more racing, building Hanscombe Performance, and reaching new personal milestones. I hope to see you on this journey.