Before you sprint into the new year, let’s take a breath, literally.

In this episode of Engage Your Brand®, I’m sharing a real behind-the-scenes look at what closing out the year has actually looked like for me. From a packed season of conference travel to the push-pull of productivity vs. rest in mid-December.

Instead of the usual “new year, new hustle” energy, I’m leaning into a different approach: exhale over inhale. This episode is equal parts reflection and gentle direction, with a few big-picture branding goals to carry into 2026 without turning your winter break into another to-do list.

I’m also sharing honest wins from 2025, what I learned from a surprise negative profit month, and what I’m focusing on next year as both a founder and creative director, including how I’m thinking about personalization, consistency, trademarking, and building a brand that stands out in a world that’s only getting noisier.

Key takeaways

• Why “exhale season” matters (and how to stop treating December like a deadline)
• A healthier way to approach goals: habits over pressure-filled resolutions
• The mindset shift that helped me grow: trust yourself + take quicker action
• A real look at business wins and realities (including what a negative profit month taught me)
• 2026 Branding Goal #1: Build a more personalized brand no one else can replicate
• 2026 Branding Goal #2: Get radically consistent across visuals, messaging, and marketing
• 2026 Branding Goal #3: Add a truly unique visual element (beyond “nice logos”)
• 2026 Branding Goal #4: Start thinking strategically about trademarks — before it’s urgent
• If you’re heading into 2026 feeling behind, overwhelmed, or unsure where to focus… hit play and take this one with you into the new year.

If you listened and thought, “Yep, that’s exactly how I’m feeling,” I’d love to hear from you. Send me a DM at @emilyfostercreative and tell me:

What’s one win you’re proud of from 2025, and what’s one branding focus you’re carrying into 2026?