Reclaiming My Power: A Note to Start 2025

Hi friends,

Who’s going to save you?????♀?

Since 2020 (when life as we knew it changed forever), I thought I was navigating life just fine - adapting, adjusting, surviving. But the truth? Your girl was stuck.

I’ve felt powerless in ways I couldn’t put into words. I’ve stayed quiet about my needs because I didn’t want to be a burden or face rejection. I’ve let life happen to me, waiting for a better moment, more money, more energy — anything to give me permission to choose myself.

This year, I’ve decided that moment isn’t coming unless I create it. Because who’s going to save me? Me.

Lessons From Last Year

2024 was a year of redefining, adjusting, and patience (lord knows I’m still working on that one).

One moment that encapsulated this was realising how much I had been putting off decisions, waiting for the “perfect time” that never came. For example, I spent months avoiding simple tasks like sorting through a pile of clothes on the floor, overwhelmed by everything else on my plate. (In my defence, it felt like a waste of time compared to being productive for my mental clarity.)

See, I know these things, and I know you know too!

It wasn’t until I decided to take small steps forward - and remind myself, “Are you 14 or are you a big woman?!” - that I began to feel a sense of progress and control. Two hours of TV doesn’t make me a bad mother, and honestly?

Progress is progress at the end of the day.

As a new parent of a nearly toddler, I had to navigate my new normal. One moment that really defined this was when I realised how much I had been waiting for circumstances to change (like a whole day alone to deep clean) instead of taking small steps forward myself.

Here’s What I Learned:

- The value of speaking with raw honesty and boundaries, even when it’s uncomfortable or embarrassing.

- That I thrive when I take small, consistent steps to reclaim control because I quit the excuses and just get it done.

- What I love about motherhood… and what I find challenging (endless cleaning still tops the list, let’s be real!).

Turning Lessons Into Action

This year, I’m embracing a single word: commitment.

Commitment to myself. Commitment to following through on what I say I’ll do. Commitment to creating spaces where new and ambitious parents can thrive.

It’s currently 2:51 AM, and I’m editing this article for you to read because I committed to posting today. I might be groggy when I wake up, but it will be worth it when I see you subscribe. (Cue: you pressing the subscribe button)

Here’s What’s Coming Every Month This Year:

? Notes by Aahliyah for New Parents. This bi-weekly newsletter will be a space for honest reflections, actionable tools, and insights to help parents navigate the chaos of life with intention.

? On January 23rd, the first Parent Recharge Monthly Event kicks off. This coworking meet-up includes supervised soft play by The Babysitting Club for kids under 4—perfect for parents who need a break and a boost.

? The Free Parents Co-Working Hub returns on January 31st. A space for planning, reflectingm, and connecting with growth-minded parents (this one’s for you, without the kids, because you deserve a productive day off).

A Question for You

What’s one small step you’re taking today to reclaim your power?

Hit reply, comment, or message me - I’d love to hear your story. Let’s make 2025 the year we reclaim our power and thrive… together.

Until next week,

Here for the chaos and the growth,

Aahliyah