Season 30 Ep 3
Looking Back: My 32nd Year
As I reflect on this moment in the threshold of turning 33, I find myself looking over my journal entries and photos deeply on everything this past year has brought into my life. I have made it through many unexpected challenges. I have overcome this past year so many moments that have reshaped my view of change. Many of these moments strengthened my boundaries and reminded me to cherish both growth and the woman I was becoming.
Saying goodbye to 32 is bittersweet. It feels much like swirling a glass of well-aged, sweet red wine and bringing it to my nose; breathing in an aromatic blend of gratitude for the experiences gained, nostalgia for the moments that have passed, and excitement for the future that lies ahead.
This transition holds richness and complexity. It reminds me to savor the journey especially as I move forward into a new year of life. 2025 was more than just another lap around the park; it was a year filled with growth, challenges, and transformative moments. In this blog post, I want to share the lessons that shaped me over the past twelve months. I am hoping that they will resonate with others navigating their own journeys.
Lesson One: Embracing Change
If there’s one thing 2025 taught me, it is that change is inevitable. Resisting change only leads to frustration. This year, I saw firsthand how friendships evolve, careers shift, and priorities realign. I learned to welcome change as a sign of life moving forward. Change was not something to fear. Letting go of control. Accepting that some things are solely out of my hands was a breakthrough. It allowed me to breathe easier. I started to move with grace through uncertain moments.
Lesson Two: The Power of Boundaries
I realized that setting boundaries is not selfish. It was essential. Whether in work, relationships, or my own self-care, 32 was the year I started saying “no” more often. I started saying “yes” to things that genuinely mattered to me. This shift helped me conserve energy. That meant enjoying my phone being on DND more and focusing on what truly brings me peace and fulfillment.
Lesson Three: Prioritizing Mental Health
This past year, I became deeply aware of the importance of tending to my mental health. I did not get a therapist through. I visited my knees with quite moments that I had honest conversations with God and in those moments, it became pillars of my routine. I learned that asking for help from even God a sign of strength. It is not weakness. In those vulnerability moments it can open doors to deeper connection and healing.
Lesson Four: Cherishing Small Moments
2025 taught me the value of everyday life. The laughter shared over the dinner table with my kids, the quiet nights once my kids go to bed, the simple act of being a sound and listening ear for others. In these small moments they proved to be the cherished moments of a meaningful life. I learned that happiness is not always found in heroic achievements but often in just being present. I look at it like this if I’m present enough to notice then I am grateful.
Lesson Five: Investing in Growth
This year, I challenged myself to step out of my comfort zone. Once I was laid off from my job I invested in my hobbies. I traveled around the city to unfamiliar places. I even had small talk (something I hate to do), but initiated conversations that scared me with strangers to make them smile. Each time I stretched beyond what felt safe, I discovered new factors of myself and grew in confidence. Growth, I realized, is a lifelong commitment even in my early 30’s.
Lesson Six: Gratitude as a Practice
More than ever, I have learned that gratitude is not just an emotion. Gratitude is practice. When I started making time each day to acknowledge the good in my life, I had become more resilient. This was all done in the face of adversity. Gratitude has helped me find purpose in everyday life and meaning in the mess. Gratitude strengthens the plot twist for Jesus.
Looking Ahead: Welcoming 33
As I prepare to blow out the candles and step into my 33rd year, I carry these lessons with me. I am eager to embrace all that is to come. I am excited. Hopeful. I am proud of the person I’m becoming. Goodbye, 32! Thank you for the wisdom, growth, and the memories. Here is to 33, and the new explorations that are waiting for me to unlock with each new season.
If you are also reflecting on your year, I would love to hear what you have learned and what you are looking forward to. Let’s celebrate growth together!
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