The trouble with New Year’s resolutions is best summed up by this anonymous quote: “The trouble with resolutions is that they are only as good as your willpower on January 2nd.” For me, resolutions have always felt fleeting—grand intentions that fade as the year progresses. Instead, I prefer to take stock of the past year: reflecting on progress made, identifying areas for improvement, and appreciating the successes and the people who make life brighter.
Reflecting on Progress
2024 was a year filled with milestones, lessons, and achievements. One of the highlights for me was seeing the book, Is This Seat For Me?, grow in popularity. Its reviews on Amazon surged from 32 to 188, with an impressive 82% being five-star reviews and the rest four stars. The overall average rating of 4.8/5 is something I’m incredibly proud of, and it’s a testament to the connections it’s making with readers.
Another significant accomplishment was appearing on 22 podcasts this year. Each was a unique experience, but my favorite by far was Queens of Tech. The conversations I had there left me feeling inspired and validated in the work I do.
I’m also deeply grateful that we were able to refinance our home mortgage in 2024. While we had been managing the payments just fine, the refinance brought both financial relief and the satisfaction of moving away from a less-than-stellar mortgage company. Goodbye to the likes of USAA/Mr. Cooper/Navistar/Lakeview—you’ve lost our business, and I’ll happily share the lessons we learned with anyone willing to listen.
Gratitude and Growth
Beyond professional and financial wins, I’m most thankful for the people in my life, especially my husband. In 2024, we embarked on several road trips together. Each one reminded me how much I enjoy his company, whether we’re exploring new places or simply enjoying the journey. Having a partner like him makes the challenges of life feel more manageable and the successes more meaningful.
Gratitude is a powerful practice. As Eckhart Tolle wisely said, “Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” Taking a moment to appreciate the opportunities I’ve been given, the lessons I’ve learned, and the wonderful people around me has been an integral part of my year-end reflection.
Looking Forward
As I move into 2025, I’m guided by this quote from J. Allen Shaw: “Don’t make resolutions without an action plan. The secret to success is right in your hands.” While I won’t be making traditional resolutions, I will focus on setting actionable goals that build on the progress of 2024. I aim to do better, be better, and continue to nurture the relationships and opportunities that matter most.
Here’s to a year of intentional growth, gratitude, and meaningful moments. Whatever your approach to the new year—whether it’s resolutions, reflections, or a mix of both—I hope 2025 brings you joy, success, and a deeper appreciation for the life you’ve built.
Comments