Hello 2025!
I'm not going to say what you think I'm going to say....or maybe you are more on to me than I realize? ;-) Read below and I'd love to hear what you actually think!
Are you living your life?
We talk a lot about goals and self-development. Often moving at light speed ahead and maybe not reflecting enough. Nutrition, exercise, weight loss, SLEEP, building a strong community that offers love and support, feeling fulfillment and purpose etc. We talk about these things, we read about these things we listen to podcasts about these things, but have we stopped to stock of what we actually do and have?
The following exercise is a great way of really seeing what your life looks like. I'm often surprised by all the things I have done throughout the year and even in difficult years there are little glimmers of light shining through. It's easy to miss these things and the exercise below helps to inspire reflection and perspective. I hope you will find it worthwhile.
A note before we jump in...
I have done this exercise many times, but I have never done it alone. I've used it as a time to connect with others. By scheduling a time with someone else it also serves as the accountability I need to actually get it done. Whatever way feels right to you or maybe a combination of solitude and sharing. You can't go wrong.
"Closing Out the Year"
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Grab a piece of paper and a pen
Pull out your phone and planner—or anything else you use to track your life.
Step 2: Reflect on the Past Year
Flip through your calendar and photo roll. Write down anything that stands out: experiences, accomplishments, challenges, purchases, or milestones.
Step 3: Take It All In
Read through your list. Absorb all that happened in 2024.
Ask yourself:
What’s your overall impression?
Is the list balanced, or is it skewed toward one area of life?
What was really good about 2024? What obstacles did you overcome?
What do you want more of—and what do you want less of?
Step 4: Look Ahead
2025 is here, with 12 fresh months waiting to unfold. When you reflect on this year in 2026, what would you like it to look like? Some ideas to ground yourself firmly in the new year.
- Write a story of your year ahead:
Who? What? How? Add as much detail as you can. You never know what you might just manifest!
- Make a list of 25 things for 2025:
(credit to Happier with Gretchen Rubin Podcast where I first heard this idea!)
What is in the works? What have you been putting off? What have you always wanted to do? Make a list of 25 items, big or small, to address in the year to come.Consider these categories to get you started: Experience, Accomplish, Purchase, See, Smell, Give.
-Set a word, mantra, or physical reminder (vision board, journal etc)
By anchoring your plans for 2025 in reflection and intention,
you set yourself up for a year that’s not just full of goals
but full of meaning.
Here’s to a thoughtful and fulfilling year ahead!
Want a little extra?
My dear friend Elise brought this "closing out the year" exercise into my life several years ago. I do not know where it originated, but if you want to read more I'm sure there are many exercises like this online.
Why?
Because, like the old adage says, "what you focus on grows" and conversely what you don't focus on doesn't.
This exercise also serves as a great journal of sorts. I love closing out the year to see all the things we did, but I also love looking back on past years for the memories.
BONUS: This is a great activity to do with your partner and children or it also makes a great :girl's night in" bonding experience