I love this time of year!

Not just for the usual reasons, and definitely not for the fireworks (that’s a story for another day!). What I truly look forward to is the space it gives for reflection.

It’s the perfect chance to look back on what worked, what didn’t, and to dream up what’s next.

This year, I noticed a pattern in the things that brought me joy, growth, and success. They weren’t just habits or strategies but contrasts – seemingly opposing forces that actually worked together.

Here are nine that I’m taking with me into 2025:

1. Big goals and small steps

Big dreams can feel like standing at the base of a mountain, staring up is exhilarating, but daunting.

This year, I learned that the secret isn’t sprinting to the top…ever.

it’s finding the next foothold.

By breaking big goals into small, intentional steps and viewing them as projects of their own, made it feel achievable.

2. Properly organised and always flexible

Being organised isn’t about rigidity – it’s actually the opposite.

The color-coded planners, detailed to-do lists, and knowing exactly what needs to be done allows me to adapt when life throws its curve balls – without things falling through the cracks!

It’s the structure that creates the flexibility.

3. Scared to death and grabbing every opportunity

Fear showed up a lot this year – usually disguised as “bad timing,” “no budget,” or “not qualified enough”. Recognising it and respectfully asking it to move out the way meant that I let nothing that was meant for me pass me by!

Fear also became the way I recognised big things too – if an opportunity presented that scared me, it probably meant I needed to take it!

4. Fiercely independent and voluntarily part of a whole

I love standing on my own two feet – chasing dreams, building castles, and creating something that’s mine. There’s a sense of fulfillment in knowing I can hold my own.

But here’s the truth… life feels richer when I’m part of something bigger.

Whether it’s my family, my circle of friends, or my work masterminds, being connected to a “whole” gives everything more depth and purpose.

It’s not about needing them – it’s about choosing them!

5. Unconditional love and immeasurable pride

I hold myself to high standards, and I believe just as fiercely in the dreams of the people around me.

I’ll do whatever I can to support, guide, or cheer them on – but never with strings attached.

I love them unconditionally, and that’s not tied to any outcome. But when I watch them present a lecture, recite their poem, or line up to race …. there is a heart-bursting kinda pride that makes time stand still!

6. Older than I’ve ever been and younger than I’ve felt in years

It’s just numbers right? I’ve learned that life is about how you feel – and when your mind feels alive, your body often follows.

As Snoopy says, “Some day, we will all die, but on all the other days, we will not.”

So I’m leaning into those “other days”—moving, playing, and appreciating everything my body can do right now.

7. Hours of focused work and clearing my mind completely

When I work, I’m all in – but my brain isn’t a machine. I can’t run at full speed all day, and trying to push through is usually a waste of time.

This year, I worked with my brain, and planned my tasks around it.

Green zone meant deep work- focused, uninterrupted, and full of energy.

Orange was for lighter tasks, the kind that don’t demand much mental horsepower.

And red was my signal to stop completely- step away, rest, and reset.

It worked well!

8. Confident in what I do and committed to learning more

You’ll never know everything, but at some point, you know enough to start – and that’s when you dive in.

The learning doesn’t stop there, though. Things evolve, industries change, and staying sharp means staying curious.

This year, I found clarity in being intentional about what I learn. Instead of trying to consume it all (and drowning in overwhelm), I focused on a handful of thought leaders I trust and even looked to the people they learn from.

9. Deeply grateful for all that is and ready for so much more!

I don’t take anything for granted.

Gratitude keeps me grounded, but it doesn’t mean settling. I still dream big – because the world is full of opportunities to make things better, and there’s plenty of success to go around.

The trick? Stay thankful for what you have, do the work to earn more, and keep your feet on the ground no matter how high you climb.

So, that’s what I’m bringing into 2025—lessons learned, contrasts embraced, and a readiness for whatever comes next.

Here’s to a year filled with growth, adventure, and a little bit of magic!