As the year winds down, we find ourselves in that reflective sweet spot—looking back at what was and dreaming of what’s next. Taking just 15 minutes to audit your 2024 can give you clarity, gratitude, and a sense of purpose heading into 2025. Here’s a simple, actionable guide to reflect and plan with intention.
Step 1: Write Down 3 Wins That Made You Proud
Start with the highlights. What moments this year made you pause and say, “Wow, I did that!”? These could be personal, professional, or even small victories that mattered to you.
- Perhaps you landed your dream job, aced a personal goal, or learned to bake the perfect sourdough.
- Don’t downplay your wins—every step forward counts.
Step 2: List 3 Moments That Energized You
Think about the times you felt truly alive. These are the moments when you were in flow, filled with joy or a sense of accomplishment.
- Was it a spontaneous road trip, an engaging work project, or a heart-to-heart with a friend?
- Recognising these moments helps you pinpoint what fuels your passion and happiness.
Step 3: Name 3 People Who Lifted You Higher
Reflect on the people who supported, inspired, or motivated you in 2024.
- Was it a mentor, a friend, a family member, or even a stranger who believed in you?
- Send them a message of thanks—gratitude strengthens bonds and brightens both your day and theirs.
Step 4: Identify 3 Lessons That Changed You
Growth often comes with challenges. Consider the lessons you’ve learned—whether from successes or setbacks.
- Did you learn to set boundaries, embrace vulnerability, or pivot when things didn’t go as planned?
- Let these lessons guide you as you navigate 2025.
Step 5: Choose 3 Habits to Build in 2025
Looking ahead, think about the habits that will support your goals and enhance your well-being.
Do you want to start journaling, exercise more consistently, or learn a new skill? Keep it realistic—focus on habits that align with your values and bring you joy.
Why This Matters
Taking the time to reflect helps you acknowledge your growth and set meaningful intentions. It’s not about perfection but about progress and alignment with what truly matters to you.
So, grab a notebook or your favourite note-taking app, set a timer for 15 minutes, and dive in. Your 2025 self will thank you!
What’s one habit you’re excited to build in 2025? Let me know in the comments below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Artist & Academic 
What a fantastic exercise! I certainly found it therapeutic. Thank you, Raine.
I suffered from a series of deep losses throughout 2024. In my grief, I then utterly failed to nourish a particularly precious new connection that I was so lucky to form near year’s end. A lack of proper intention and, especially, a strong fear of further loss, led me to make poor decisions, engage in confusing behaviour, communicate in destructive ways, and, most of all, fail to admit to myself the scarily strong feelings that had formed despite my fear. By the end, I may have lost this connection forever, and almost certainly ruined what could have been.
I’m not sure that I will be able to repair that damage, at least in ways that recover what was lost. But, at the very least, I am positively determined not to repeat it. My intention is to do this via repeated reflection of the kind suggested in this article, self-honesty, and, perhaps most of all, forbidding my fear from controlling my decisions.
No more.
Happy New Year to all! I genuinely hope you all find – and follow through on – your 2025 intentions.
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