I still can’t believe we’re already in a new year! It’s such a unique feeling – on one hand, I was eager to wrap up 2024, but on the other, I deeply enjoyed everything the year brought to my life!
As is tradition for me, I’ve taken the first part of January to reflect on the past year and assess how far I came in realising my intentions. My process begins with a week of fasting and prayer, followed by completing my reflections for the year and setting clear intentions for the next.
I am beyond grateful for living joyfully and productively through 2024 and for crossing into 2025 with a heart full of hope. Here’s a look at my journey with some of the key intentions I set for last year…
1. Commit to My Blood-Type Diet and Lose 21 kg
Maintaining a balanced diet has been a challenge since surviving the car accident I discuss in My Testimony. This is partly because of how my relationship with food shifted after the experience.
Growing up, I struggled with body dysmorphia, and losing weight was always a high priority. Sticking to diets – even extreme ones – wasn’t an issue. But after waking up from a coma in 2014, unable to eat for weeks, I developed a deep appreciation for food. I would watch other ICU patients eat and feel an intense longing to do the same.
Now that I can eat freely, I’ve had to relearn discipline without falling into old, unhealthy habits. While I only lost 10 kg last year instead of the 21 kg I intended, I’m proud to say I’ve become a disciplined eater. That alone is a major milestone!
2. Improve My Relationship with Myself Through Self-Discovery and Mastery
After what felt like an eternity, I’m back in therapy, and it has been such a rewarding experience. While I still practice Self-Therapy, having a professional listen with the intent to truly hear and understand is incredibly valuable.
Early in 2024, I went through a depressive episode, which I discuss in Living With Depression & Anxiety. This prompted me to resume therapy, and it has become a safe space for self-expression, reflection, and challenging my own beliefs. Through this process, I genuinely feel like I Am Myself Again – but even better. I know myself more deeply, appreciate myself more fully, and love myself more unconditionally.
3. Achieve Business Growth, Development, and Success
Becoming an entrepreneurial fashion designer has always been my dream. My determination to achieve this goal led me to register UP PHELELE (Pty) Ltd in 2015 while finishing my undergraduate degree in Fashion Design. This year, my business turns 10 years old – a huge milestone!
In 2023, I graduated from a business accelerator program. After three years of engaging in mentorships and development programs, I decided 2024 would be the year to put all my knowledge into action. With the guidance of my business mentor and advisor, I’ve navigated this journey with renewed confidence and optimism. They remind me daily that success is near, and I truly feel it coming!
I have three more intentions to reflect on, but I’ll save those for Part Two of this blogpost to keep things concise.
Until then, I’d love to hear from you:
Have you reflected on your experience of 2024?
Do you have a tradition of reviewing your year?
Would you consider adopting this practice for 2025?
Let’s start the year strong – together!
Yours (but mine first),
I hope you achieve your goals for this new year ahead, and wish you well on your journey towards meeting them. Have a wonderful 2025!
That’s such a kind and thoughtful message – thank you! I truly appreciate your well wishes, and I hope 2025 brings you happiness, success, and everything you’re striving for as well ♡