As this year closes, I feel something I haven’t felt in a long time: readiness.
2025 was not an easy year for me. It was heavy, clarifying, and at times deeply uncomfortable. But it was also necessary. This was the year that stripped everything away—the masks, the noise, the expectations I carried that were never mine to begin with.
I spent a lot of time this year healing instead of remembering. There were moments when looking back felt blurry, and I finally understand why. My energy wasn’t meant for replaying the past—it was meant for rebuilding from the inside out.
This was the year I stopped trying to prove myself.
I learned that I don’t need everyone to understand me. I learned that living my life for myself and my husband is not selfish—it’s honest. I learned that I am stronger, smarter, and more capable than I ever gave myself credit for. And most importantly, I learned that authenticity will always take me further than any version of myself that was built to survive instead of live.
The mask I wore for years began to fall away in 2025.
Rush culture no longer fits.
Corporate identity no longer defines me.
Perfection no longer has a seat at the table.
What does remain is pride.
I’m proud of how much I learned about my body—even through setbacks. I’m proud that I stayed, tried, and didn’t give up on myself until it was clear that leaving was the healthiest choice. I’m proud of reconnecting with people after years of isolation, of choosing joy and adventure with my husband, of committing to therapy and real healing, and of returning to creativity simply because it feels good.
I slowed my mornings. I honored my growth mindset even when life pushed back. I kept going.
As I step into 2026, I’m not chasing reinvention. I’m choosing integration.
The focus moving forward is simple:
- living at my own pace
- protecting my peace daily
- supporting my body with care, not punishment
- creating because I want to
- and building a life that feels sustainable, honest, and kind
Goodbye 2025. You were difficult—but you were necessary.
