Live from Italy: A solstice moment
From Dalbir’s Desk
Written just hours before the summer solstice…
As I write this, I’m sitting in Positano. It’s six hours before the summer solstice — the longest day of the year. The sea is calm, the sun is golden, and for the first time in a long time, I’ve stopped.
I extended my summer break just for this — space to think, feel, and ask the question we often avoid:
Where am I going? And is it where I actually want to go?
The Solstice isn’t just a date, it’s a decision
This turning point in the calendar feels symbolic. The light is at its peak. But what about us?
Are we clear on our own direction?
Do we feel lit up — or just burnt out?
Have we even given ourselves permission to pause?
I took this solo moment in Italy not to plan the rest of the year with pressure — but with purpose.
Because if we don’t take the lead in our lives, life will lead us somewhere anyway.
And we might not like where we land.
My Mid-Year Reset Questions
Try Them
If you’re not where you thought you’d be at this point in 2025, ask yourself:
What’s actually working — and do I want more of it?
What am I carrying that I no longer need?
What would feel meaningful, not just impressive, by December?
What would it take to make space for that?
Even 15 quiet minutes can change your whole trajectory.
You still have time
There’s a whole second half of the year ahead.
And this is your moment to shape it — before it shapes you.
Whether it’s career clarity, a new goal, or simply a sense of grounded purpose — don’t wait until “September energy” kicks in.
Decide now who you want to be.
And if you’d like some help making that vision real — I’d love to work with you.
→ Just reply to this email and say “reset” — and we’ll go from there.
With sunshine, stillness, and purpose,
Dalbir x
Book spotlight
Atomic Habits
By James Clear
This bestselling classic breaks down the psychology of habits and shows how small changes compound into meaningful transformation. James Clear doesn't just offer hacks. He presents a science-backed framework for designing systems that work. Whether you're rebuilding confidence, reclaiming focus, or trying to shift a stuck routine, Atomic Habits helps you take practical steps with lasting impact.
It’s a powerful reminder that identity isn’t built by bold declarations. It’s shaped by consistent actions. One habit at a time.
Great night at The Ned
I hosted a personal branding talk yesterday at The Ned with the wonderful Anna Berkeley.
Great discussion with men and women about how we can shape our personal brand and how it isn't as daunting as it first looks.
Latest News
Congratulations to our Coaching Call Winners!
Thank you to everyone who entered the Visibility Challenge giveaway — we loved hearing what you're focusing on this season.
We’re thrilled to announce our two winners of the free 45-minute coaching sessions:
Gina Hamilton and Rebecca Morter
We'll be in touch directly to book your session and explore the area of your life you're ready to elevate — whether it's Personal Brand, Career, Wellbeing or Relationships.
Didn’t win this time? Stay close. More opportunities to work together are coming soon.
Coming soon: the new santalan.com
We’ve been building a refreshed online home that reflects the clarity, elegance and purpose at the heart of Santalan.
The new site will be easier to navigate, clearer to understand, and more aligned with the work we do. Whether you are exploring coaching, retreats or simply getting to know us, it is all designed to feel seamless and grounded.
Stay tuned. We cannot wait to show you.
The next Santalan Retreat is coming!
We’re finalising the dates for our next transformational retreat — and if you’ve been craving space to step away, reflect, and reconnect with what really matters, this is for you.
Think coaching, connection, calm, and clarity — all in a setting designed to support your growth, not your grind.
If you want first access when bookings open, join the waitlist below.