As we dive into the new year, it’s easy to rush forward, setting new goals and resolutions, without taking a moment to pause and reflect on the past. But here’s the thing, one of the most important parts of doing something new is knowing what worked (and what didn’t work) with what you've already done. Reflection isn’t just about looking back; it’s about recognizing the lessons, the wins, and the growth that will propel you forward. So, before January ends and the hustle of the new year officially begins, let's hit pause together.
Let’s reflect on our journey. In this post, I’m sharing the mindset shifts, gratitude practices, and lessons that will set you up for your best year yet. Trust me, it’s already waiting for you. Let’s make it happen!
Where You Started and How Far You've Come
At the beginning of 2024, I was feeling a bit all over the place. Yea, I had achieved a lot academically, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that adulthood wasn’t quite as clear-cut as academia. In school, you have a direct path: do this, for this many years, and then you graduate. But life in the real world doesn’t always work that way. As I moved through the year, I kept asking myself: "What’s my next big thing? What should I be working toward?" But I had no idea how much growth was waiting for me on the other side of all the challenges that were coming my way.
One of the hardest seasons of my year was being laid off. The disappointment was real, especially since I loved my position and the company. But what I’ve learned is that growth often happens in the moments when we feel the most uncomfortable. At first, it wasn’t obvious, but looking back now, I realize just how much those moments shaped me.
Reflection:
Think about where you were at the beginning of 2024. What were you struggling with or feeling? Maybe it was something big, or maybe it was just getting through the daily hustle and bustle. Whatever it was, take a second to acknowledge it. You’re not in that same place anymore, even if it feels like you haven’t made drastic changes. Growth can sometimes happen quietly, in ways that aren’t always immediately visible.
I’ve realized that I don’t have to constantly be producing something to feel accomplished. My accomplishments are not defined by outward achievements alone. When I stop to look at my life, i.e. my degrees, my certifications, my accomplishments, even just managing life’s challenges, I see I’ve done quite a lot… if I must say so myself *brushes shoulders off
Mindset Shifts to Embrace in 2025
Looking back on 2024, I am amazed and proud of how much I’ve grown, and not just in terms of what I’ve achieved, but in how I’ve come to trust myself. One of the most powerful moments for me last year was deciding to pursue my PMP certification. I was terrified. Terrified while studying, terrified while taking the test, and definitely on the verge of throwing up everything I had eaten over the last week while waiting on the results, but I took the leap of faith anyway. When I saw the passing score, the sense of relief and pride was truly overwhelming.
Sometimes, the confidence to move forward comes from realizing that stagnation just isn’t an option. When I switched careers from mental health to project management, I faced a lot of uncertainty. People advised me to stick to my degree, but I knew that wasn’t my path. I pushed through, and the rewards came.
In 2024, I learned that trusting myself is one of the most powerful shifts I can make. And that’s something I’m carrying with me into 2025. Trust yourself, because you’ve already proven that you can handle difficult things.
Emotional Intelligence
Another powerful shift I made this year was in emotional intelligence. I’ve always had a lot of empathy, but I realized that emotional intelligence isn’t about ignoring your feelings; it’s about processing them in a healthy way. For example, when I was laid off, I didn’t panic. Instead, I slowed down and asked myself, "What’s next?"
I had been through a layoff before, so it wasn’t my first rodeo. However, the response was different. I told myself that I couldn’t let myself reach the lows that I fell to back then. Instead, I would much rather take the time to feel the emotions, but at some point, I would have to pick myself up and move forward.
I’ve also learned that taking the time to understand myself has improved my relationships. The more I know what I need, the better I can show up for others and empower others in showing up for me thus making those relationships stronger.
Comparison Is the Thief of Joy
I’m still working on letting go of comparison. As a digital creator, it’s easy to look at others and feel like I’m falling behind. But I’ve learned that stepping away from constantly consuming content helps me reconnect with my own goals and reminds me why I started creating in the first place. Comparison doesn’t serve me, and it doesn’t serve you either, so don’t allow it to succumb you. Your journey is uniquely yours.
The Power of Reflection & Gratitude
As we step into 2025, I want to remind you that reflection and gratitude aren’t just for the end of the year. These practices are powerful tools you can use any time to recalibrate and refocus.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that life doesn’t always unfold on my timeline, no matter how much I plan. Looking back, I can see that the hardest moments taught me the most. Gratitude helped to keep my faith strong despite my struggles, reminding me that even the tough moments are a part of the journey. So what about you? What’s one challenge you overcame last year that you’re grateful for now?
Take a moment to pause and celebrate the small wins, too. Maybe you didn’t achieve everything you planned, but every step you took forward matters. For me? One of those smaller victories was starting the process of selling my home to move to a new state. It might not have been the biggest thing, but it was meaningful progress.
Lessons to Live By in 2025
As we enter this new year, I’m holding onto a few key lessons. These are the principles that are guiding me, helping me stay grounded as I move through 2025.
Trust the Process: Even when results aren’t immediate. Progress doesn’t always look the way you expect it to, but trust that your efforts will eventually pay off.
Prioritize Your Well-Being: It’s easy to get caught up in doing a lot, but if you don’t take care of yourself first, you won’t be able to pour into anything else.
Stay Aligned with Your Own Goals: Stop worrying about what others think. Your path is yours, and it's okay if it doesn’t make sense to everyone else.
Closing Thoughts: Reflection for the Win
As we officially step into 2025, remember this: Your growth may not always look loud or obvious, but trust that you’ve come so far. Your best year yet doesn’t start with perfection; it starts with reflection, gratitude, and belief in yourself.
Take a moment to reflect on your journey, celebrate your wins, and set your intentions for the year ahead. You are already on the right path, and I’m so excited to continue growing alongside you in 2025.
Talk Soon!