Where I’m Standing as 2026 Begins

Well, hello! Happy New Year!

Six days into 2026 and I’m here, noticing the quiet rhythm of life around me and the way my own heart feels both familiar and changed.

I’m not rushing into resolutions or trying to become a new version of myself. I always want to do better and be better. I’m simply stepping into this year with an open heart, paying attention, and holding space for both uncertainties and the possibilities that lie ahead.

Reflecting on 2025

One of the most transformative things I did last year was set boundaries. I didn’t find it hard to do, I found it quite empowering, and saying “no” when I needed to, protecting my peace, and doing the things I truly wanted to do made such a difference. I felt less swayed by what others thought or said, and more in tune with what mattered to me.

Boundaries are amazing — they’ve given me freedom, space, and clarity in ways I didn’t fully anticipate.

Boundaries and Freedom

With that freedom, I also allowed myself to embrace more of what makes me happy. I gave myself permission to do things simply because I wanted to, not because I felt obligated or expected to. It’s a small shift in daily life, but it made everything feel lighter, more joyful, and more fully mine.

Sometimes that meant simple things — going for a walk or sitting outside and letting the sun hit in my face. Other times, joy came in ways some people might not expect: cleaning and organising my space, scrubbing the shower until the glass sparkles, which brings me a surprising sense of calm and satisfaction. I spent more nights in by myself, doing face masks, writing, watching movies and savouring the comfort of my own company. There’s a quiet richness in these small, ordinary moments — time with myself that feels deeply nourishing.

Loving the Woman I’m Becoming

I’m still in my twenties, still learning, still growing — but I love the woman I’m becoming. She’s strong but also soft, is big on intention and is not settling for anything in life. I feel more comfortable and confident in who I am, more willing to go after things I want, and less inclined to justify myself or seek permission from anyone else. That sense of self-trust is powerful, and I’m looking forward to carry it into the new year.

Carrying Gratitude into 2026

I want to continue noticing the ordinary, appreciating the small acts of connection, and nurturing the moments of peace that make life feel full. I want to honour my own needs, maintain the boundaries that protect my energy, and keep carving out space for joy, curiosity and growth. There’s a gentle hope in starting the year this way — not a pressure to perform, but a readiness to witness life as it unfolds.

One thing I want to do more of this year is learn — no matter what it is. I’m a curious person, and lately I find myself asking questions like, “What does that mean?” or “What’s that about?”. I love the process of learning, and I’ve noticed that staying open to new ideas and experiences keeps me receptive to opportunities that might cross my path. Whether it’s a small insight, a new skill, or a fresh perspective, learning helps me grow, stay engaged with the world, and approach life with a sense of wonder and possibility.

I’m locking in this year. Nothing and no one is going to throw me off the path I’m meant to be on.

So, here’s to 2026: to freedom, growth, curiosity, and the woman I’m becoming; to noticing more, rushing less, feeling deeply, and appreciating what is — right here, right now. I’m grateful for this chance to continue learning, reflecting, writing, and showing up for myself in ways both big and small. And I’m quietly excited for what’s waiting, even in the spaces I can’t yet see.

Previous
Previous

Being “okay” and being at peace

Next
Next

12. December