Firstly, may I wish you a belated Happy New Year! I hope you made the most of the holiday season and it was an enjoyable one for you.

My Christmas holiday was how it should be – spent with friends and family, involving lots of eating, drinking and relaxing.  It did mean that my good intentions of planning for 2010 were sidelined because I was having too much fun. However, on reflection, I’m glad I took the time out because I am now fully recharged and ready to dive headlong into work again.

2009 was a fantastic year for me. At a time of change and uncertainty for many businesses I have a lot to be thankful for and have achieved things that at the start of 2009 I could only dream of. They include:

Taking the leap from the relative security of employment to starting my own business (a long time ambition) in the middle of a worldwide recession. It was not due to redundancy nor was I forced into the decision, but an informed choice. Risky maybe, but I don’t regret it even a little bit.

Meeting my business targets ahead of schedule and I’m well on my way to achieving my next target on time too.

Developing my skills through courses at VA Classroom, and gaining certification in their Internet Marketing and Social Media Specialist programmes. These skills have enabled me to add to my existing services and provide qualified assistance to my clients in this fast moving, constantly evolving area of marketing.

Being commissioned to write a short article for design agency, Creative Action, as an introduction to social media in their annual publication. You can read the article here.

Becoming chairperson of my local Athena Network group of Mill Hill, North London.

Securing a fantastic rosta of clients who are successful, inspiring and great fun to work with. What’s more, they value and appreciate the work I do for them. Could I ask for anything more?!

Connecting with many other inspiring, talented and supportive business people who have become clients, colleagues, associates and friends, particularly those in the Athena Network and .

Developing a host of new skills essential to running a virtual business, including blogging. Here is a selection of my favourite posts of 2009:

Twitter in 140 Characters Or Less

Are You A Professional Procrastinator?

3 Easy Steps To Banish Filing For Good

5 Healthy Tips For The Desk Bound

Virtual Assistant Proves You Can Take Your Business Anywhere

So, what’s in store for 2010?

I’m happy to say that a few days in to 2010 and things have got off to a great start with a new client and fantastic opportunities in store. I will be spending some time this week to revisit my business plan, set my business and personal goals, and devise my marketing plan for the year ahead to ensure I continue to develop my business, learning and services to add further value to my clients.  There will be a shiny new website launch, a sprinkle of business coaching and further training in Photoshop design for starters.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very happy and successful 2010 and to thank all the friends, family, mentors, clients, ex-employers, colleagues, trainers and business associates who have contributed to make my business a success. Cheers!