The most important decisions aren’t made at the summit; they’re made while packing your backpack the night before
This piece of advice from my grandfather often comes to mind, especially at this time of year. He’d remind us of it on the evenings before our family hikes, as we carefully chose what to pack.
The idea wasn’t that what we left behind didn’t matter, but that what we decided to bring should support the journey we were about to take.
Every year, as the clock ticks toward midnight, we all engage in a similar ritual: reflecting, making resolutions, and imagining how things might magically transform at 12:00 a.m. I’m no different. I tally up wins and lessons, scribble down lofty goals, only to see many fizzle out by February.
So, here are not resolutions but five things (I’m not sure what to call them exactly) that I’d like to keep nurturing in the coming year. Five things I want to carry in my year’s “backpack.”
𝟭. 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲:
Gratitude helps us look at life differently, even during tough times. It’s not just about saying “thank you” (though that’s a great place to start); it’s about recognizing what’s already here and how it shapes us. When we focus on what we have, instead of what we lack, challenges feel lighter, and opportunities seem closer. When was the last time you paused to say “thank you”?
𝟮. 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁:
Trust is believing in ourselves, in others, and in the process, even when we don’t have all the answers. It’s like leaping from one trapeze to the next: scary, uncertain, but necessary.
The path doesn’t always have to be clear to move forward. Sometimes, trust is the courage to let go of certainty and embrace possibility. Would you jump off the trapeze?
𝟯. 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆:
Curiosity keeps us growing. It invites us to step off the beaten path and explore new perspectives. By asking questions and listening to others, we discover surprising ideas and solutions. Growth begins when we remain open, even to things we don’t fully understand yet. How often do you stop and ask, “How are seashells formed?”
𝟰. 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆:
It’s not about being the first to reach the summit, it’s about helping others find their footing along the way. Every time we enrich someone else’s journey, we create ripples that extend far beyond what we see. Generosity, whether it’s sharing time, knowledge, presence, or kindness, isn’t about obligation. It’s about doing what feels right. How can I help?
𝟱. 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆:
This ties back to my grandfather’s advice. Being intentional means choosing what we carry with care, letting go of what doesn’t serve us, and focusing on what truly matters. It’s not always easy, but taking the time to reflect helps us stay aligned with our vision, mission, and values. What truly serves us?
What will you choose to carry with you this time? Happy 2025