This year has been full of challenges, both professionally and personally. I think the one word I would use to describe 2025 would be chaotic.

Through the unexpected twists, the heavy moments, and the difficult transitions, on lesson has become clearer than anything else: effective, transparent communication is essential everywhere.

When Leadership Doesn’t Communicate, Everything Shakes

In organizations, silence at the top creates instability everywhere else.
When leaders withhold information (intentionally or not), the entire company becomes a fragile house of cards—wobbly, anxious, and vulnerable to collapse.

Uncertainty fills the gaps left by poor communication.
People start guessing.
Teams lose alignment.
Confidence erodes.

The less a leader communicates, the more their people suffer.

On a Personal Level, Communication Matters Just as Deeply

Over the last several years, I’ve watched relationships—friendships, families, partnerships—fall apart not because of betrayal, but because of miscommunication, assumption, or lack of clarity.

It’s heart breaking to witness. In those moments, it’s easy to feel so helpless, wishing you could jump in and help everyone connect the dots and reach a mutual understanding before things fracture beyond repair.

Out of chaos, something grew

Both the PM Clarity blog and Tracey Miller Creative were born out of these struggles and reflections.

Both stem from a desire to help others:
to communicate more clearly,
to lead more intentionally,
to build stronger relationships,
and to navigate complexity with grace and structure.

word for 2026

I have never picked a target word for a year before, but this year it felt necessary. I have chosen the word thrive. In order to thrive, there must be clear and open communication, personal growth, and strong community. These will be my focus in 2026, not just in my work, but in my relationships, faith, writing, creativity, and leadership.

Despite the chaos, I’m stepping into 2026 with purpose and hope. I’m looking forward to cultivating the clarity, connection, and growth needed to truly thrive.