The start of a new year always feels like opening a blank journal, doesn’t it? Fresh pages, endless possibilities, and a chance to write a story that’s bigger and better than before. As I sit down to reflect on the past year and plan for the future, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the lessons I’ve learned and the opportunities that lie ahead in 2025.

I’m still reeling from my cross-country move to my childhood dream place, California. It has truly been an entire adjustment. The West Coast is indeed a whole world different from what I’ve grown up and experienced. Namely one, the weather. right now as I write this initial draft today, Sunday, January 5th, it’s 2:30 pm and it’s 72 degrees, back home, on the east coast, everyone is getting ready for a major snow event up and down the entire coast. I will say with sincere honesty, one of the main reasons I couldn’t wait to experience what the west coast has to offer! The weather is indeed a blessing. So with that, I’m excited to share the first blog of the new year with you because this is the first of many many more!

Whether you’re here for a little inspiration, a push to set your own goals, or simply to connect, this post is for you. So grab your coffee (or tea), settle in, and let’s dive into what the past year taught me—and how I’m using those lessons to tackle this one!

Lessons Learned From Last Year

1. Progress Isn’t Always Linear, and That’s Okay

Last year taught me that growth doesn’t always happen in a straight line. Sometimes, it’s two steps forward, one step back, maybe a few steps back—and honestly, that’s still progress! If you learned something from every moment you made a step, whether it was backward or forward, even had moments when things felt stagnant or even like I was moving in the wrong direction perpetually. I had to truly dig deep and remember how far I have come. Sitting here realizing that I’m now sharing my journey in such an open way that I do see the journey that I have traveled. I am nowhere literally where I was last year. As for me looking back, I realize those pauses and setbacks gave me space to reflect, recalibrate, and come back stronger.

Takeaway? Don’t beat yourself up when the path gets bumpy. Grace should be given, Progress is still progress, no matter how small or uneven it feels. It’s not going to always come beautifully wrapped as a gift with a big pretty bow on it.

2. Consistency Beats Perfection Every Time

I used to chase perfection in everything I did. Whether it was a project, a blog post, or even personal habits, I wanted it all to be flawless. But last year, I learned that consistency trumps perfection every time. A lesson that I’m still digesting, Every. Single. Day.

By focusing on showing up—even when I didn’t feel “ready” or things weren’t perfect—I accomplished more than I ever thought I could. It’s not about doing it perfectly; it’s about doing it consistently.

3. Boundaries Are a Form of Self Care

I’ll admit, I’ve struggled with saying no. But if there’s one thing last year taught me, it’s that setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s essential. By protecting my time and energy, I was able to focus on what truly mattered without burning out.

For anyone reading this who feels stretched too thin: remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Celebrate the Small Wins

We often get so focused on the “big picture” that we forget to celebrate the little victories along the way. But last year, I made it a point to pause and appreciate even the smallest wins—whether it was finishing a tough task, sticking to a new habit, or simply surviving a challenging week.

Those small celebrations kept me motivated and reminded me to find joy in the journey.

Change Is Uncomfortable, but It’s Necessary

If there’s one word to sum up last year, it’s “change.” Some of it was exciting, some of it was downright scary, but all of it pushed me to grow in ways I never imagined. Change isn’t always easy, but it’s often the catalyst for transformation.

So if you’re feeling stuck or scared of change, lean into it. The discomfort won’t last forever, but the growth will.

Goals for 2025

With those lessons fresh in my mind, I’ve set some bold (but realistic!) goals for 2025. Here’s what I’m focusing on this year:

1. Embrace More “Imperfect Action”

This year, I’m permitting myself to dive in—messy or not. Whether it’s launching a new project, writing weekly blogs (yes, you’ll be seeing more of me!), growing my email list and becoming more engaging on social media. That alone has been or trying something completely outside my comfort zone, I’m committing to action over hesitation.

2. Prioritize My Health and Well Being

Last year taught me that self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. In 2025, I’m making my mental and physical health a top priority. From consistently writing, journaling, traveling, and exploring new things, along with creating and having more experiences that align with who I am becoming right now today. Getting back to the things that I love. From workouts to mindfulness practices, I’m taking small, sustainable steps to feel my best.

3. Focus on Community and Connection

One of my biggest goals this year is to connect more deeply—with you, my readers, and with the people around me. Whether it’s through thoughtful conversations, collaborations, or simply showing up authentically, I want to build relationships that matter.

Learn, Grow, Repeat

I’m dedicating 2025 to being a lifelong learner. Whether it’s through books, courses, or new experiences, I’m making growth a daily habit.

Celebrate the Journey, Not Just the Destination

This year, I’m committing to savoring the process. Instead of waiting for the “big win,” I’ll find joy in every step of the way—because, ultimately, life is what happens in the in-between moments.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one thing I hope you take away from this post, it’s that every lesson, challenge, and victory—big or small—shapes the person you’re becoming. The new year isn’t about being a “new you”; it’s about continuing to grow into the best version of yourself, one day at a time.

So here’s to embracing imperfection, celebrating progress, and making 2025 the year we show up for ourselves and our dreams. What lessons did you learn last year? And what goals are you setting for this one? I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop them in the comments below!

Your next chapter is waiting—take the first step.
👉 Share one intention for this year in the comments or on social media using #TheRecalibratedCollective.

Let’s make this year unforgettable. Cheers to 2025!

5 key Lessons from Last Year and the New Goals for 2025