
A Fresh Start for the New Year
As we turn the page to a new year, I think it’s natural to feel a mix of disappointment and excitement. Reflecting on the ups and downs of the past months, there’s disappointment about what didn’t go as I expected. And, as I look into this new year, with a slight air of caution, I feel excited about what’s possible. My aim is to embrace what I learned from those challenging moments and lean into the strength I gained (both, physically and emotionally) to make this a great year. In fact, I’m looking at 2025 as a “fresh” canvas—an opportunity to set meaningful intentions, refine my focus, and reignite my passion for personal growth and well-being.
I like to think of the new year as a reset button—one that invites us to pause, take a deep breath, and remind ourselves of our own resilience. This time of year is often filled with talk of resolutions and goals, but I don’t subscribe to the concept of ticking boxes or setting lofty targets. From my perspective, true change isn’t about perfection; it’s about slow, sustainable steps that honor both my body and my mind. That might look like expanding my mindfulness practice, taking walks outdoors more often, or exploring new ways to re-connect with old friends. Whatever my intentions may be, I will remind myself that every step forward—no matter how small—makes a difference.
It can be all too easy to compare our progress to that of others, especially when social media is filled with images of people seemingly achieving success overnight. Instead, I will remind myself to be kind to “me” and recognize that my journey is uniquely mine. I invite you to join me! Let’s celebrate accomplishments, no matter how modest they may feel. Be patient with any setbacks, because each obstacle presents a chance to learn and adapt. Know this: growth is rarely linear, and that’s perfectly okay.
As we move forward into 2025, let’s keep compassion at the core of everything we do. Whether it’s extending patience toward ourselves when we stumble or showing empathy to someone else when they need an extra dose of kindness, each act of compassion helps build the supportive community we all need. Here’s to a year of embracing every moment, finding gratitude in the small things, and rediscovering joy in every corner of our lives. May this be a year of fresh starts, continued growth, and unwavering hope for the future.
Until next time, Rachel.