Here we go, it's nearly Christmas. And what a year that was! 

It's the time of year where many of us can stop and reflect on the 12 months that have just gone by and today, I thought I would take a moment out of my day and do just that. 

2020 will, of course, go down as a crazy year, a tragic year and a year full of disruption. It's a year that gave many of us time to reflect on our lives and a year that forced many of us to press the reset button. But when I think about it, I'm coming out the other side feeling pretty blessed.  

It may have been the year of the global pandemic that was Covid-19 but it was also the year that Balance was born, so I will always look back on this year with a degree of fondness and pride. But, it took more than just me to ensure I could finish a year like this with such optimism and, hoping not to sound like a dull acceptance speech at a socially distanced awards ceremony, there are a few thank you's I'd like to make.

Thank you, clients

It goes without saying that without our amazing clients, Balance wouldn't be here. As a new business, born out of Covid-19, I feel extremely privileged to able to work with some fantastic organisations. Some of which, like many others, have had to overcome some major hurdles along the way. Together though, we've been able to produce some fantastic work that we can all be truly proud of.

Thank you, NHS

If we think the year has been difficult for us, we have to remember the strain that our NHS has been through. So regularly a service we all took for granted, it has been good to see the appreciation and the tributes paid to the brilliant doctor's and the incredible nurses and carers who have worked so hard to help so many through what must have been one of their most challenging years. 

To show our thanks, Balance recently created a design that will be displayed at Lincoln County Hospital. Acting as a tribute to the incredible staff who work in their Intensive Care Unit, the print showcases every dedicated member of the 100+ team who put their lives at risk every time they simply went to work, just so they can help others. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You're all amazing!

Thank you, family

Starting a graphic design business and working from home was always going to be a challenge. Staying in a creative flow, sorting out the accounts and telephone and Zoom calls were bound to have their moments when there was homeschooling with a 4 and an 8-year old going on at the same time. But, as interesting as that can be for me, I have to appreciate the change my family have had to go through too. Going from seeing me briefly in the morning and evening to having me sat in the dining room (ahem, design studio) all day must have had an impact on their lives and routine too! So, I have to say a massive thank you to my family, for bearing with me and for supporting me throughout this strange year. 

Although setting up my own graphic design business was never in my thinking at the start of 2020, it has been fantastic seeing more of my children (and my wife!) and enjoying the flexibility that working from home allows. As well as aiming to produce beautiful and effective designs to help businesses communicate their messages, Balance was also about finding the work-life balance that can easily get missed in a "regular" job. 

Sometimes things are forced upon us, and although they may seem a little scary at the time, you have to remember that thing's do happen for a reason. Yes, 2020 has been a bit... well, rubbish, but it has been great too. Remember, if we don't go through the tough times, we would never notice the good times. 

Right, I've gone on for long enough now. It's time you finished wrapping presents and making sure you're ready for Santa to visit. Have a great Christmas, stay safe and keep washing your hands. Here's to 2021. Let's hope it's just as good (or maybe a little bit better).