Here we are in January 2025.

For the first time in my working career, I took two weeks off for my Christmas break. I recognised that my mind and body needed a little longer than I usually take. I’m glad I listened to myself. Taking time out has enabled me to re-set, spend some time with myself and others. I feel ready to see what 2025 has lined up.

Winter break

How has the winter break been for you? Has it brought clarity to any situations for you? What have you found difficult? What has been less effortful than you anticipated?

Setting intentions

As we make our way back into our regular lives, I am mindful that January is often a time for setting resolutions, goals etc. What works for you? I like to think more in terms of intentions as it feels less daunting and less shaming if I’m not able to make it happen. During my break I’ve been able to think about what I might need more or less of.

What about you? What do you need more or less of? How can you influence that? What if you feel you can’t? Can you be compassionate with yourself in the meantime?

Might you need more joy in your life? What might that look like? What sort of joy? A loud belly-laugh sort of joy or a quiet, internal smile on your face sort of joy?

Are there things coming up this year that will require bravery from you? Might this mean a loud sort of bravery or a quiet assertiveness that only you know the true meaning of?

Whatever you need more or less of this year, I hope you are able to make steps towards discovering what your needs are and having the compassion with yourself and others as you implement those needs. Having strong boundaries is necessary in healthy relationships. We can do this in a way that is kind to ourselves and those around us.