Thursday Thoughts... A New Year, A New Chapter

As the calendar turns to a new year, there’s a fun sense of possibility in the air. Sure, it’s a time to reflect on where we’ve been, but more importantly, it’s a time to look forward with hope, determination, and excitement for what lies ahead.

Recently, I came across a quote that I had to share:

“Don’t say you don’t have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michelangelo, Mother Teresa, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein.” — H. Jackson Brown Junior

At first glance, it’s humbling. Those names are synonymous with brilliance, impact, and legacy. But when you think about it, it should also give us confidence. Each of these individuals faced challenges, had doubts, and started with the same 24 hours in a day that you and I have. The difference? They chose to use their time with intention.

Time Is Our Greatest Equalizer

No matter who you are or where you are in life, we all get the same 24 hours in a day. It doesn’t matter how talented, wealthy, or connected you are—time is the one resource we can’t buy more of. But what we can do is make the most of the time we’re given.

We all have dreams, goals, and opportunities waiting for us, but they require us to act. Those hours don’t stretch themselves. They need us to show up, make decisions, and commit to growth.

Hope and Opportunity

The start of a new year feels like a blank page waiting to be written. It’s a time to set new goals, try new things, and refocus on what matters most. But let’s be honest—it can also feel overwhelming. The pressure to set resolutions and make this year “the best one yet” can feel like a lot.

Here’s the thing: You don’t have to overhaul your entire life to create a meaningful year. Sometimes, it’s the small, consistent steps that lead to the biggest changes. Focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate the little wins along the way, and remind yourself that every step forward—no matter how small—is a step in the right direction.

Building a Year of Purpose

So how do we make 2025 a year of hope and opportunity? Here are a few thoughts:

1. Start with Gratitude: Reflect on what went right in the past year, no matter how small. Gratitude gives us perspective and builds a foundation for hope. Jon Acuff ’s book, “Soundtracks” talks about the power of your inner soundtrack. Remind yourself “good things are always happening to me” and you’ll believe it.
2. Set Intentions, Not Just Goals: Goals are great, but intentions focus on how you want to live, not just what you want to achieve. My friend Ashley Tesone (Sterling Community Wellness Center Director & REVELATION WELLNESS instructor) always says “you can’t outrun your fork”. The moral of the story, if you want to be healthier, don’t set a goal of losing weight, but rather, an intention of eating less desert.
3. Be Bold: Don’t let fear of failure hold you back. Remember, every great achievement started with someone willing to take a chance. Small people focus on small problems. Don’t settle for small – aim for exceptional!
4. Use Your 24 Hours Wisely: Think about how you spend your time. Are you investing in the things that matter most to you? Be ruthless in your elimination of time waste.
5. Lift Others Up: Just like time is the great equalizer, so is kindness. Helping others reach their goals creates a ripple effect of opportunity. You’ll never regret treating someone well.

That Leads Me to This Week’s Challenge…

This week, take a moment to reflect on the year ahead. What’s one area of your life where you can be more intentional with your time? Maybe it’s focusing on a long-term goal, deepening a relationship, or simply finding joy in the little things.

As we step into this new year, use the chance to embrace the hope and opportunity it offers. Let’s use our 24 hours with intention, courage, and purpose. And most importantly, let’s support each other in building a year full of progress, connection, and meaning.

I’m thankful you took the time to read this, for choosing to work, and for being part of what makes this world amazing.

If this week’s Thursday Thoughts resonated with you, I’d love to hear how you’re planning to make 2025 your best year yet!

What’s one goal or intention you’ve set for yourself? How are you planning to use your 24 hours to create progress, connection, or joy? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag someone who inspires you to make the most of every day.

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