Here's a sneak preview of an exercise that my clients & I do every end of the year...

Because, while most are rushing to squeeze in their last-minute holiday promotions, we've been quietly doing something different.

I'll be sending out my year-end messages to everyone around me - not to sell, but to genuinely connect with & appreicate people who've been part of my journey.

The fascinating thing? My clients who've started doing this are experiencing something beautiful...

They're rediscovering connections they'd almost forgotten about, having meaningful conversations, and spreading joy in a way that feels completely authentic.

Sure, some of these conversations naturally lead to business opportunities (one even clinched a $30K commission after)...

But that's not why we do it.

We do it because in this crazy, fast-paced world of business and marketing, we sometimes forget what really matters:

The real human connections that make this journey worthwhile

I've noticed something interesting about timing these messages...

When you reach out 1-2 weeks before the holiday rush & flood of messages, people actually have the mental space to engage in real conversation.

They're in a naturally reflective state, thinking about their year, their journey, and what's ahead.

This isn't about tactical advantage - it's about creating moments of genuine connection.

Here's what I encourage my clients (and myself) to share:

Authentic reflections on what we've learned

Genuine gratitude for the connections we've made

Real wishes for others' success and happiness

Best case? Some of these conversations lead to collaborative opportunities.

Worst case? You've brightened someone's day and strengthened a connection.

Either way, you win.

Because at the end of the day, business is built on relationships, not transactions.

And there's no better time to nurture those relationships than when people are naturally open to deeper connection.

That's why I'm starting my year-end messages early this year.

Not because it's strategic (though it can be or lead to opportunities (though it often does)...

But because it feels right...and I authentically want everyone around me to live an amazing life.

You got this.

- Marc "Connection" Teo