Life has a funny way of teaching us lessons when we least expect it. Looking back at the past year, I realize how much I’ve grown — through challenges, big changes, and those little moments of clarity that shift everything. Here are 12 things I’ve learned over the last 12 months that I hope inspire you to reflect on your own journey.
1. Set goals based on growth, not just outcomes
Instead of chasing a number on the scale, a job title, or a dollar amount, I’ve learned to set goals around who I want to become. Growth goals are about building habits, shifting mindset, and learning new skills — the things that last far beyond the initial achievement.
2. Be patient and let the universe flow
Not everything happens when we want it to. Sometimes the delay is actually protection. Patience has taught me to surrender control and allow things to unfold in divine timing.
3. Be intentional with your goals
I’ve realized the importance of thinking carefully about the goals I set. Energy is powerful — what you put into the universe, you invite back. I’m learning to be specific, intentional, and honest with what I truly want.
4. Detach from the outcome and enjoy the ride
This one’s big. Chasing a result can blind you to the beauty of the process. By detaching from the outcome, I’ve found more joy in simply living — and ironically, the results seem to come faster.
5. Practice mindfulness daily
Whether it’s sipping coffee without my phone, going for a walk, or just breathing before I answer a text — mindfulness keeps me grounded. The more present I am, the more peace I feel.
6. Read more books
This year, I leaned into reading. Because whatever you’re going through — heartbreak, career pivots, health challenges — someone else has been there. And chances are, they wrote about it. Books are like roadmaps for life’s messiest detours.
7. Consistency and repetition are everything
It’s not glamorous, but it works. The most successful people in the world aren’t the most talented — they’re the ones who show up over and over again. Repetition builds trust with yourself. And consistency is what compounds over time.
8. Be kind to yourself
We can be our own harshest critics. I’ve had to remind myself: look at everything you’ve already survived and accomplished. Being kind to yourself is not weakness — it’s fuel for resilience.
9. Have faith in yourself and the process
Faith is the bridge between where you are and where you’re going. Some days, that faith is the only thing that keeps me moving forward.
10. You’ll never feel “enough” — and that’s okay
This one hit me hard. The feeling of not being enough never fully goes away. Instead of fighting it, I’m learning to embrace it — to let it push me toward growth while also knowing I already bring value just by being me.
11. Protect your energy
Not everyone deserves your time, attention, or access to you. I’ve learned to set boundaries, say no when needed, and surround myself with people and spaces that truly uplift me.
12. Celebrate the small wins
Life isn’t only about the big milestones. Celebrating the little victories — finishing a workout, cooking a healthy meal, hitting publish on a blog post — keeps me motivated and grateful along the way.
Final Thoughts
The past year has taught me that growth isn’t linear, and it definitely isn’t always comfortable. But with patience, faith, and a little bit of consistency, you realize just how far you’ve come. My hope is that some of these lessons resonate with you too — and maybe help guide your next chapter.