As 2024 winds down, I’ve been reflecting on what I truly want from life. How do I envision my life by this time next year? Am I content with who I am—as an individual, a friend, and a partner? These questions are not easy, but they are necessary. They challenge me to consider how I can cultivate a life where happiness isn’t tied to fleeting desires or external validation but is rooted in peace, stability, and self-acceptance.

In a world where we’re constantly inundated with curated glimpses of others’ lives, it’s easy to fall into the trap of wanting more. But I’m beginning to see that wanting more—whether it’s things, achievements, or approval—doesn’t always lead to fulfillment. What I truly crave isn’t “more” in the material sense; it’s value. I long for calmness, peace, and the ability to wake up each day feeling that being myself is a gift, not a burden.

Looking back on my early 20s, I see a lot of pain. Some of it was circumstantial, but much of it stemmed from the people I surrounded myself with. 2025, for me, will be about building better boundaries, focusing on healing, and embracing slowness.

One major step my partner and I have already set in motion is our plan to live in an RV from January to April, exploring the West Coast. We’ll travel through Alberta, BC, and parts of the U.S., skiing, working, and soaking in the adventure. I believe that distance can offer perspective, and I hope this journey will not only heal but also transform me in ways I’ve yet to imagine.

Another goal is to transition into a role that aligns with my values, particularly in the sustainability space. I’ve come to realize that product design, while rewarding, overwhelms my creative energy and takes away from the joy I find in my personal creative hobbies. Instead, I’m focusing on sharpening my skills in SQL, Python, Tableau, and Excel, with the aim of pursuing an analyst-type role. The future is unpredictable, and while I dream of returning to school for architecture, I’d like to reserve that for a time when I’m more financially stable.

Lastly, I hope to prioritize my mental health and eventually afford therapy. While many advocate for therapy regardless of financial circumstances, the reality is that adding a financial burden would only compound my stress. For now, I’ll continue to save and invest in repairing our RV, creating a foundation for this new chapter.

2024, you’ve been good to me, but 2025—I’m ready for you to be the year.