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This guest blog post is by Derek Mulhern, an executive coach dedicated to helping association leaders define their strategic vision, navigate what’s next, and align their teams to unlock growth and create meaningful, sustainable success.
As we wave goodbye to 2024 (and yes, I’m ready for it as are most of my clients), I’m gearing up for a year filled with possibility, transformation, and yes, a little more fun. This past year, I had the privilege of coaching incredible association leaders, helping them navigate challenges ranging from dysfunctional boards and team burnout to the great membership model mystery. But 2025? It’s going to be even better.
Here are the four things I’m most excited about when it comes to coaching leaders in the association world this year:
1. Leaders Who Take Care of Themselves and Their Wellbeing
The best leaders don’t just manage their teams, they model what it means to thrive. I’m thrilled to see more association executives putting their oxygen masks on first in 2025. Coaching these leaders means helping them carve out time for themselves, set boundaries, and lean into sustainable habits. When leaders prioritize their wellbeing, they’re not only healthier—they’re sharper, more creative, and better equipped to lead and inspire their teams.
2. Fixing Fewer Problems and Learning to Be With the Tension of Uncertainty
Let’s face it: the association world isn’t getting any less complex. Here’s the thing; leaders don’t need to have all the answers. In 2025, I’m excited to support association professionals to let go of “fix-it” mode and lean into curiosity. Magic happens when leaders can hold space for tension, navigate ambiguity, and empower their teams to do the same. If you learn this skill, it will change everything.
3. Loving What You Already Have
With an evolving association landscape, it’s easy to overlook what’s already working. This year, I’m challenging leaders to pause and appreciate the resources, talent, and connections they already have. In 2025, we’ll uncover our hidden superpowers, double down on existing opportunities, and build on the foundation that makes their association unique. What if gratitude is a piece of the growth puzzle?
4. Team Alignment: It’s HOT
If I could pick a trend for 2025 it’s team alignment. Associations thrive when leaders are clear on their vision and their teams are all rowing in the same direction. Coaching leaders to foster alignment, whether it’s through strategic goal-setting, better communication, or rediscovering their team’s purpose is where I see massive potential this year. Everything works better when teams are aligned.
2025 will be a year full of opportunities for association leaders to embrace new ways of thinking and leading. Whether it’s finding balance in your wellbeing, leaning into the unknown, or fostering alignment within your team, there’s so much potential to thrive and grow in the year ahead.
