New Year, Same Me, Different Worldview
I wanted to have this out before the start of the new year, but the holidays got in the way.
I wouldn't say that 2025 was a bad year for me, but it was one where I saw some of the most drastic changes in how I perceive myself. My job, my friends, therapy, and varying experiences with medicine created a roller coaster of emotional ups and downs throughout the year that, in the end, has left me looking at my life within a new lens, and made me ask questions about myself from, what I feel, is a clearer perspective.
I'm able to admit to myself what parts of my life I want to change and to not worry either about how these changes my be perceived by others, or about holding these changes, and my happiness, off because it makes things easier for someone else.
I'm learning not to subconsciously wait for permission from others to take action, and to acknowledge the fact that many of the decisions that I've made on my own have brought me some of the greatest joys in my life.
I know I'm being kinda vague here, but these are all still personal feelings that I'm carrying with me into the new year. But now, I trust myself that I've picked the right equipment for the job.
So, if I were to create a general New Year's Resolution list, it would include:
- Write more on paper. I keep a pocket notebook with me at all times as the first thing a reach for when I have a task or random thought I want to remember for later.
- Journal more often. I have a paper journal that I use for more personal, everyday writing. It helps to put your feelings to pen and paper. Be sure to write on both good and bad days. It creates an excellent resource for self reflection.
- Stick to a hobby. I've always had a dozen hobbies or skills that I've wanted to be good at and never gave any enough time to grow. I'm going to pick two and stick to those for at least a few months.
- Explore without purpose. I don't usually have a reason to get out of the house, but who says I need one? Learn to get out and experience the world without a plan or boundaries. You never know what, or who, you might find unless you try.
- Take more photos. Take more time to capture good memories.
- Get a tattoo. One of many ways I hope to practice self expression.
- Keep this list short. Don't overdo it right at the start of the year. Keep your expectations of yourself in check. There's nothing stopping you from reexamining this list later in the year.