Thinking About Next Year

At the end of every year, I spend time journaling—taking stock of what the year held and articulating what I want more of in the one ahead. It’s my way of honoring both the good and the hard, and of setting intentions for what I invite into my life next.

What I wanted more of in 2025 was beautiful, focused, and understanding of my deepest desires.

And still—2025 became another year of catastrophic and transformational events that stripped me down to my bare bones. No list of intentions, wants, or desires could have predicted what unfolded. The fact that I am as emotionally, psychologically, and professionally grounded—and even thriving—as I am feels remarkable.

And finally, at the very tail end of 2025, some of the things on that list are beginning to take shape: belonging, reciprocal, honest love, spontaneity, adventure. They’re showing up in small ways—a conversation, an invitation, an unplanned weekend away, a yes where I used to say no.

I’m starting my list for next year earlier than usual. I’m digging deep—recognizing all that happened, who I’ve become through it, and what I need now more than anything. The list is still forming, still nebulous, still emerging into language.

The most incredible thing is that these intentions are being grown from the version of me who stitched herself back together with golden strands of true self-love, undeniable self-worth, and the quiet, steady belief that I am truly extraordinary—not the compounded trauma that led so much of this year.

2026 is primed to be an outstanding year.