Why connection is my word for 2026 - and how to choose yours

Why connection is my word for 2026 - and how to choose yours

Author: Rachel Spencer December 31, 2025 Duration: 23:05

Do you choose a word for the year? Or are you thinking about yours for 2026? 

Each year, I choose a word to guide how I want to feel and how I want to work and this year it’s Connection.

In the past, it's been Calm and Space - two things I definitely needed during some pretty full-on seasons. 

But this year, for 2026, it’s all about connection.

In this post, I’m sharing why that word matters to me, how it came about, and some reflections and prompts to help you choose what you want from the year ahead too. 

I hope it gives you a moment to pause and think about what 2026 could look like for you.

Topics and timings:

0.20 -Episode outline.

0.38 - Planner sponsor message.

2.17 - How do you want to feel in 2026.

2.40 - Why Connection is the word for 2026.

3.10 - Why my perspective has changed.

4.37 - Some previous words of the year.

8.10 - What Connection means and the training I'm doing for 2026.

10.59 - Prompts to help you think of what connection means for you.

13.09 - Connection and collaboration example with Vanessa from Wag-Wagatha Christie groomers.

16.29 - The importance of a sense of belonging.

17.02 - How the Pets Get Visible membership can help you feel connected.

17.44 - More real life meet ups for 2026.

19.08 - Why it's not just you sitting there thinking everyone else has it all figured out and you dont.

21.18 - How imposter syndrome is with us at all levels.

22.05 - Thank you message to start the year.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Emotions coaching: https://www.igcompany.com/emotionscoaching

Planner and Planner Club: www.rachelspencer.co.uk/shop

Further reading/listening:

12 Takeaways from my Online Planning Day

How to prepare for a pet business event

Is my Pets Get Visible membership right for you?

How to choose the right pet business membership

Should you buy my Pet Business Content Planner

What is The Planner Club and should you join

Why I am an accredited Pet Business Coach

Look back and see how far you've come


There's a persistent myth in the pet industry that success requires a rigid, one-size-fits-all formula. Your Pet Business, Your Way exists to dismantle that idea entirely. Hosted by Rachel Spencer, a journalist and accredited coach with deep roots in this world, this podcast is a conversation for pet professionals-groomers, trainers, walkers, product makers-who feel exhausted by generic marketing advice and industry trends that clash with their personal values and lifestyle. Rachel brings her background as a mentor and author to frank discussions about building a sustainable enterprise that doesn't demand you sacrifice your family time, your sanity, or your unique voice. Episodes delve into practical strategies for marketing, client relationships, and entrepreneurship, but always through the lens of your individual circumstances. You'll hear from Rachel directly, as well as insights from others navigating the same path, focusing on how to grow a business that genuinely fits around your life, whether that involves kids, other passions, or simply a desire for more autonomy. This isn't about following a rulebook; it's about writing your own. Tune in for a refreshingly realistic take on creating a pet business that thrives on your terms, making this podcast a trusted resource for anyone who believes their love for animals and their personal ambitions can truly coexist.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Your pet business, Your way
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