New Year’s Reflections as a Neurodivergent Motorsport Fan
As the chequered flag for this year approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on all that 2024 has brought—the triumphs, challenges, and moments of growth that have defined it. This kind of reflection brings with it a big mix of emotions, and it is so easy to feel like you have achieved nothing and made no progress compared to last year. Yet, there is much to celebrate even in the smallest steps forward.
Looking back over the past 12 months, I see a person who has faced tough moments—a person who cried multiple times. There were periods when daily life felt overwhelming, but those challenges were balanced by many moments of joy, discovery, and courage. I got to experience things young Jess would be very impressed and surprised by.
2024 was a year in which I was brave enough to ask for help when I needed it, prioritised emotional well-being, and developed healthier coping mechanisms. I challenged myself to overcome fears, improved my French language skills, and used them in multiple meaningful ways—both professionally and while travelling in France and Belgium.
When I look back, I see a person who stood up and advocated for themselves. One of those memorable moments did in fact happen in the Formula E pits in front of the NEOM McLaren garages when I was nearly prevented from getting an autograph from Formula E driver Sam Bird, something I had been very excited to do. Standing firm in the face of obstacles reminded me of the importance of self-belief and determination. It’s a lesson I carried throughout the year and will continue to carry into the next.
I also see someone who made new connections with people from all over the world, united by a shared love of motorsport. These connections introduced me to new places and friendships, for which I’m deeply grateful.
2024 also brought with it an important realisation: About two years ago, I stepped away from a job in radio and media and started working at the reception of a hotel. It was a step that made no sense. Not only to others, but also to me. I followed a gut feeling, one that led me into a completely new direction. And looking back it was undoubtedly the right thing to do. It is a job I enjoy a lot, one I am very good at, and one that has opened doors for me that I would not have been able to walk through otherwise.
For a long time, I believed my departure from media was due to a lack of passion for storytelling and a feeling that I wasn’t good enough. This year, I realised that wasn’t the case at all.
What I truly needed was to find my niche—a specialised topic I could immerse myself in and write about with genuine enthusiasm. This blog has provided me with exactly that outlet. Through writing about electric motorsport, I have rediscovered the joy of creative expression and the excitement of sharing stories that matter to me and that may also enrich the lives of someone else.
Yes, not all of us may have grand, impressive achievements to look back on in 2024. To the outside world, some of our victories might not seem significant. Yet, even in the small, personal wins—those only we may fully understand—there lies progress. These moments build the foundation for a better year ahead.
There is so much to celebrate about the year that has passed. As we look back and reflect, we also look ahead to what is to come. While striving for perfection is logically the aim, especially as we as motorsport fans know how much of a difference just the tiniest bit of imperfection can make. However, it’s important to recognise that perfection is rarely attainable. This past year has reminded me of the importance of celebrating progress, no matter how small. Let us not view these moments as failures or mistakes but as reroutes—new paths leading to uncharted destinations. Every step forward, every moment of courage, and every personal connection made in 2024 has contributed to a stronger foundation for the future.
Here’s to welcoming 2025 with optimism, resilience, and the determination to embrace growth. May it be a year of continued discovery and success for all of us.
Happy New Year!
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