Well, I think we should high-five on surviving this year.
For us, it’s been a rollercoaster.
There have been some huge highs.
Moving to Portugal, making wonderful friends here, exploring new places, and hobbies and discovering so much about ourselves.
But there have been difficult times with health issues and business challenges that rumble on and keep the fear kindling away.
Here are my takeaways from 2024 that I’m sure will make 2025 a totally different year 💖
#1 Slow Down
As I age, I’ve come to accept I don’t have anywhere near the stamina I had in my 30’s.
But mainly for the mental load, not the physical.
I think the whole world is operating at an unsustainable pace.
You can jump on the ride and speed to the end or step off and go a different route.
I’m going to pass on that ride and walk from here as I’ve started accepting and seeing the joy in slowing down.
My one regret is not doing this sooner.
#2 Connect to Yourself
We’re connected to others 24/7.
At the expense of our own identity.
Meditation, hiking, Qigong, yin yoga and relaxation breaks have become my safe space and a regular feature in my week.
They’re not ‘should do’s” – as they have been in the past.
They’re game-changers.
Time to plug myself in.
Connect with my own thoughts, needs and emotions.
Otherwise, the cravings, bitching and resentment take over.
#3 Say ‘No’ More and Head Into Nature
Saying ‘no’ to commitments and scaling back on sorting out everyone else has been a huge challenge for me.
I pride myself on caring, helping, problem-solving and turning up with the answers.
But the list just grew and grew, so my body stepped in and called time on it.
I realise it often comes from a place of low self-esteem and needing validation too.
Or in Matts’s case just seeing a more efficient way of doing something 😂
You might feel good and honourable as you selflessly turn up but if your body is flagging please listen to it.
We can only do so much (and most of the people I was trying to help ignore me anyway 😂)
Saying ‘no’ more frees you up to head into nature where you’ll find the ultimate comfort blanket.
The sights, sounds, scents and perspective provide a complete emotional makeover.
#4 Surrender and Ditch the Control
Who knows what happens next?!
This has been a powerful lesson for me this year.
My overactive mind had filled my future with worst-case scenarios without me even realising.
So I’ve started focusing on positive visualisations, and gratitude for my precious memories and everything I have now.
Slowing down also means I can feel this, not just say it.
And I’m now surrendering to a future that’s not mine to decide.
I can’t control it, I can’t control Matt’s, I can’t control my families or yours.
We can only do our best in this moment.
#5 Be Kind
Be kind, be present and help without judgement.
All of this starts with kindness to yourself.
I’d love you to put this one at the top of your NY resolutions too.
Seeing what a brilliant human you are and feeling that is where the journey starts.
Silence your inner critic and you’ll see all the positive changes get easier and enjoyable.
Which means life gets easier and more enjoyable.
I really hope these help you.
Trust me.
If I can do it, I know you can 💖
There are a couple of amazing books that helped me get here if you’d like some recommendations, including:
- I’ve Not Been Entirely Honest With You by Miranda Hart
- Cured by Dr Jeff Rediger
- The Surrender Experiment by Michael Singer
- The Wisdom of the Shamans by Done Jose Ruiz
- This Messy Magnificent life by Geneen Roth
Have a wonderful Christmas.
