2025 Team Reflections: Carrying What Matters Into 2026
As 2025 comes to a close, our team at The Good Lemon has been spending time reflecting on a year shaped by change both in the world around us and in the work we do every day. It was a year that challenged us to adapt, care for ourselves and one another, and find new ways to create impact, even when conditions felt uncertain.
Here’s what stood out as we look back on the lessons, wins, and intentions we’re bringing with us into 2026.
Navigating Challenges Head First
This year reminded us that challenges don’t exist in isolation. They ripple outward into our work, our clients, and our personal lives.
For Renee Green Tate, Senior Project Manager, navigating the broader political landscape was a defining challenge of 2025. Shifting policies and decisions affected many of the organizations we work with, forcing teams to rethink how they show up and share their stories.
“One decision truly does have ripples, but out of challenges come some of the most creativity imaginable.”
Despite the obstacles, Renee saw clients adapt their storytelling in powerful ways, proving that impact doesn’t disappear under pressure; it often evolves.
For Erin Mishkin, Digital Marketing Manager, the challenge was deeply personal. A chronic pain flare made traditional work routines difficult, requiring adjustments both physically and mentally.
“I learned that it’s OK to put yourself first, especially when it comes to health.”
By rethinking her workspace, adjusting her schedule, and prioritizing self-care, Erin’s experience reinforced something we as a team all value deeply: flexibility isn’t just a perk, it’s essential to sustainable work.
And for Jade Martin, Digital Content Specialist, stepping into more direct client work was a growth curve of its own.
“Ramping up my involvement working more directly with clients was something to get used to.”
It was a reminder that growth often comes with discomfort, that learning new ways to collaborate strengthens both our work and our confidence.
Wins That Reminded Us Why We Do This Work
Even amid challenges, 2025 delivered moments that reaffirmed our purpose.
One standout win was the launch of TGL Trusted, a series that created space for candid conversations with partners about their expertise and the value they bring to mission-driven work.
“It was great to speak to our partners candidly about their expertise. I learned a lot and loved seeing how passionate everyone we work with is.”
For Erin, the highlight was simpler, and just as meaningful: getting to work alongside a team and clients committed to making a difference. “That’s always inspiring, but especially this year,” she shared.
And for Jade, consistency was the big win. Keeping The Slice blog going throughout the year was a proud moment and a testament to the power of consistency.
Together, these wins reinforced something we often return to: impact is about steady, thoughtful work done alongside people who care.
What We’re Carrying Into 2026
Looking ahead, our team is focused on intention: not just doing more, but doing what matters most.
Renee is excited to build more flexibility into her work, with a focus on providing stability and consistency to the teams she serves amid continued change.
Erin is setting a lighter, personal goal by committing to daily movement, inspired by teammates who model sustainable habits.
And Jade is looking forward to creative growth in 2026, including unveiling a refreshed newsletter template and continuing to build her graphic design skills.
Underlying all of these goals is a shared commitment to care, adaptability, and creativity for ourselves, our clients, and our audiences.
A Note of Gratitude
As Renee put it best:
“I’m so appreciative to work with real people. It’s not every day you get to do amazing work with people who share your values and beliefs.”
As we close out 2025, we’re grateful for our team, our partners, and the communities we get to support. We’re heading into 2026 grounded in what we’ve learned, energized by what’s ahead, and committed to carrying forward what matters most.
Here’s to another year of thoughtful, people-first work!