In the book Good to Great, author Jim Collins writes about how the greatest companies in America have what he dubs a 'hedgehog strategy.' It's a business strategy that continuously sets them apart from other companies, a strategy that leads them in times of indecision and conflict. The name comes from a fable of a fox who is always trying to catch a hedgehog. Despite his best efforts the Fox never gets the hedgehog. The hedgehog consistently shields himself, doing what he knows best.

This year there has been heartache and harrowing disappointment mirrored by great achievement and love. As I get older, I have learned; that's life.

When I sat down to write last year's letter, I was unemployed, I ended a business relationship, had intimately travelled America and was living at home working out of my parents kitchen. In 2015, I launched LC Media, found a new apartment and office, I became a stand-in Mom, and still managed to sneak in some travel.

We've made it. Whatever that may be. I feel humbled and honor to be walking into 2016.

I'll be honest, my heart is bruised, parenting is not easy and there were times last year when I wasn't sure I'd make it to the other side. I learned that sometimes we want things and we never get them or they weren't what we wanted in the first place. We change and so do the people around us. What doesn't change is love, perseverance and discipline.

Growing up I was always told, "Choose wisely, and treat kindly." I think that's my hedgehog strategy for life. I hope to continue loving and supporting those I believe in because sometimes, it's the only thing I do well. As i get older, doing the right thing and being the person I want be become are important both, in business and in my personal life.

Enough about me, I want to hear your stories either in the comments of via email! Shoot me an email at melissa@lucuratesmedia.com. What did you learn this year? What do you hope to accomplish?