What positive events have taken place in your life over the past year?

Celebrating Growth, Facing Challenges, and Setting the Bar Higher

Another year is winding down, and if you’re anything like me, it’s been a whirlwind of deadlines, surprises, and aha moments. This is the perfect time to hit pause, reflect on the journey, and plan for the next big moves. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t all smooth sailing, but it’s been worth every twist and turn.

Here’s the lowdown on my year of growth—the wins, lessons, and what’s next on this glow-up train.

Professional Glow-Up: The Hustle Paid Off

Let me take you back to January: I was juggling three major projects, dealing with imposter syndrome like it was a full-time job, and wondering if anyone even noticed the work I was putting in. Fast forward to June, and I was sitting across from my manager, hearing the words, “Congratulations, you’re being promoted!”

That promotion wasn’t handed to me; I earned it by consistently showing up, pushing past the fear of failing, and—let’s be real—sacrificing more than a few lazy Sundays.

The best part? I learned that advocating for yourself is not optional. Whether it was asking for more responsibility, sharing my ideas in meetings, or negotiating a raise (yes, I did that, too), I made my voice heard. Ladies, let’s normalize knowing and demanding our worth.

Boundaries, Balance, and Boss Energy

This year also taught me that being a boss doesn’t mean running on empty. For the first time, I prioritized boundaries—and wow, what a difference it’s made.

Here’s how I did it:

• Work: I stopped saying “yes” to tasks outside my role unless they aligned with my growth goals. “No” is a complete sentence.

• Relationships: I drew clearer lines in friendships and family dynamics, letting people know how to respect my time and energy.

• Self-care: From therapy to setting phone-free hours, I’ve started treating my peace like a VIP guest—always protected and valued.

Guess what? The world didn’t collapse when I put myself first. Shocking, right?

Personal Wins: From Baby Steps to Big Strides

While my career blossomed, I didn’t let my personal growth take a backseat. I tackled my long-time goal of financial literacy, devouring books and podcasts that finally demystified budgeting, investing, and building wealth.

Another win? Rekindling my love for creativity. This year, I committed to a writing project (hello, novel in progress!) and finally signed up for that gun safety class I kept putting off.

Sometimes, it’s the small wins—like learning to cook a dish that isn’t pasta—that remind you how much you’re capable of.

What’s Next? Setting My 2025 Intentions

This year was a foundation; next year is about elevation. Here’s where I’m aiming:

1. Career Goals: Take on more leadership opportunities and mentor younger colleagues who are just starting out.

2. Personal Development: Deepen my mindfulness practice by reducing screen time and increasing journaling and reading.

3. Financial Growth: Create a more aggressive savings and investment plan for long-term goals.

4. Creative Expansion: Finish my novel and explore new storytelling formats like podcasting or video.

Lessons for Anyone Reading This

• Your wins matter. No matter how “small” they seem, they’re part of the bigger picture.

• Boundaries are your superpower. Protecting your time and energy isn’t selfish; it’s survival.

• Reflection fuels growth. Take stock of what worked and what didn’t, then make adjustments without guilt.

Now, I want to hear from you: What’s been your biggest accomplishment this year? What’s one lesson you’re taking into next year? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s inspire each other to keep striving.