A New Year's Reflection: Embracing Growth and Kindness

Happy New Year! As we step into this fresh chapter, I want to wish everyone reading this the very best life has to offer in the year ahead. Time moves so quickly—it feels like yesterday it was 2023. For me, this time of year is bittersweet and overwhelming. It’s tempting to dwell on how the past year didn’t go as I hoped or how my goals seem farther away than ever. But after heartfelt conversations with my therapist and loved ones, I’ve decided to shift my perspective.

This year, I’m choosing to view my setbacks as a learning curve rather than failures.

One of my greatest struggles has been meeting my basic needs. And in all honesty I just don’t think I loved myself enough. I claimed Self-love, but did not feed myself. I claimed self-love but never drank enough water. I claimed self-love but never took care of my body. And maybe I couldn't love myself because of my depression or maybe I was depressed because I couldn’t love myself. But I am tired of playing detective, sometimes we won’t get to the bottom of things and that's okay too. I am sick and tired of pushing things back in the name of “ I can’t do this until I find out what caused this is… blah blah” this year I truly want to embrace myself. love myself and choose myself like no one ever will. So I hope you choose yourself too. 

How do you feel about New Year’s? Do you feel anxious, excited, or unsure what to make of it? Everyone’s emotions about this time are unique, shaped by the year they’ve had. My hope is that when you reflect on your year, you don’t see it as a series of failures but as moments that taught you what does—and doesn’t—work for you. Each year brings its own lessons. Let’s honor them.

Facing the Hard Truths

This year, I uncovered some harsh truths about myself. The biggest? I’m not as adaptable to change as I thought. While I welcome change in theory, my ability to adjust to it is a different story. A small shift—like traveling home for the weekend—can completely disrupt my routines. Adapting to change, even simple changes in location or schedule, feels like a monumental task.

Imagine navigating life when every little adjustment threatens to unravel your progress. It’s frustrating. How do I stay consistent? How do I care for myself in the chaos? I don’t have the answers yet, but I’m starting with acceptance. And that’s enough for now.

Add crippling depression on top of that, and you’ve got a perfect storm. But instead of feeling ashamed of these struggles, I’ve decided to embrace them as opportunities for growth.

A New Approach to Goals

This year, I’m keeping my goals simple and focused. I’ve learned that you can’t chase emotional fulfillment without first meeting your basic needs. Maslow’s hierarchy reminds us of that truth. So I’m taking things step by step, with kindness and patience.

“Nothing changes if nothing changes.” Unrealistic goals lead to overwhelm and burnout. I don’t want to give up, and I don’t want you to, either. Below, I’ve shared my goals for the year—simple yet meaningful steps to build a stronger foundation. Remember that as you create your own think about using the S.M.A.R.T chart as a tool!  

My Goals for 2025 Personal Growth

• Continue therapy to manage PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

• Set monthly challenges to step out of my comfort zone and build resilience.

Physical & Emotional Wellness

• Fitness: Take mindful walks daily, even for 5 minutes.

• Basic Needs: Drink 8 cups of water, eat 3 meals a day, and sleep 7-8 hours consistently.

• Self-Care: Invest in skincare and treat myself because I deserve it.

Hobbies

• Read one book a month (even textbooks count!).

• Hike twice a month.

• Write for my blog twice a month.

• Paint four new pieces this year.

Relationships

• Plan special experiences to deepen family connections.

• Build relationships with mentors and peers in areas I’m passionate about.

• Set healthy boundaries with myself (no more Sims marathons!) and with others.

Adventure

• Explore local places I’ve never visited before.

• Try new foods in new locations.

Financial Goals

• Start saving, even if it’s just a little.

• Budget for my passions, like writing tools and hobbies.

Giving Back

• Volunteer with causes close to my heart, like mental health and ecology.

• Share what I’ve learned with someone just starting their journey.

These goals may seem simple, but for me, they represent significant challenges. They’re also a commitment to myself—a promise to prioritize my needs and growth.

Whatever your goals look like this year, please remember: You matter, too. Small steps, taken consistently, can help you build a routine and foster a sense of stability. If one month doesn’t go as planned, don’t give up. Adjust, reflect, and keep moving forward.

Let’s face this year with mindfulness and kindness, both toward ourselves and each other. We’ve got this. Happy New Year—let’s make it one to remember. 💛