There’s something magical and mildly disorienting about the days between Christmas and the first full week of the new year. Time loses all structure. You don’t know what day it is, alarms feel optional, and Tuesday nights suddenly feel like Saturdays. It’s a rare pause where rest, reflection, family time, and random fun all blur together into one cozy, emotional vortex.
This in-between space is when we process the year we’re leaving behind and quietly prepare for the one ahead. Emotions bubble up unexpectedly. You reflect. You sleep in. You link up with friends. You might even party on a random weekday because… why not?
My New Year Starts in October
For me, the new year doesn’t officially begin on January 1…….it starts around my birthday. As a fall baby, I naturally begin reflecting a few months early, which I actually love. It gives me a head start on shifting habits instead of scrambling to reinvent myself overnight.
This season, I spent time exploring, visiting art exhibits, reconnecting with friends, but I also leaned heavily into rest. I stayed home. I reflected. I enjoyed my own company. And honestly? That quiet time told me a lot.
So… What Did 2025 Teach Me?
I’m glad you asked.
1. It’s Okay for Friendships to Change
Sometimes friendships shift not because someone did something wrong, but because you changed. As I’ve gotten more connected to my inner self, I’ve learned to honor when something no longer feels safe or aligned.
If you find yourself censoring what you say around a close friend, that’s information. And trust me…..they probably feel it too, whether they admit it or not. For me, stepping back felt more honest than forcing closeness or initiating a dramatic confrontation. I didn’t need to villainize anyone. I just needed space.
I’ve learned that it’s unfair to both people to “fake the funk.” Creating distance can be an act of respect, for yourself and for them.
2. Healing Family Trauma Brings Real Peace
This holiday season was different, in the best way. After years of working through family trauma, finding my voice, and speaking up instead of swallowing my feelings, I finally felt… peaceful.
No anxiety. No bracing myself for triggers. No waiting for the moment that might ruin the day. I could just be with my family and enjoy them. That freedom was huge, and I don’t take it lightly.
Handmade Gift from my niece <3
3. Perfection Is Not Required to Create
I started this blog years ago simply because I loved writing. As a kid, reading and writing brought me joy and I’m slowly reclaiming that. Lately, I’ve been reading more for pleasure, without deadlines or pressure, and it’s been such a gift to my creativity.
I also noticed something important: the more I put my phone down, the more my ideas flow.
But I’ll be honest, I started feeling self-conscious about how I show up online. I love a beat face and fresh hair… but I also love being makeup-free, hair wrapped, and living in my house that is very much lived in. My dining table might have sunglasses, a purse, and random mail sitting on it. And that’s okay.
Going forward, I’m not letting the illusion of perfection stop me anymore.
In 2025, I’m committed to doing it anyway.
Do it messy.
Do it unapologetically.
Do it with chipped nail polish.
Just. Do. It.
4. A Hair Revelation (Yes, It Matters)
I realized my hair retains length better when it’s stretched. After my birthday in October, I decided to transition back to being a straight natural. My plan is simple: professional maintenance once a month, weekly care on my own in between.
It’s also just… easier. Unwrap, brush, go or clip it up if it gets puffy. Sometimes ease is the luxury.
5. I’m Open to Love
This one is big for me.
I’ve struggled with envisioning romantic love especially….. for a long time. This year, I got intentional about understanding why and removing those mental blockers. During a trip to Sedona, Arizona, something shifted. For the first time, I could truly imagine romantic love without fear or resistance.
Will the love of my life cross my path? I don’t know.
But I do know that I’m open now and that feels like progress.
6. Joy Is in Returning to What You Loved as a Child
Travel. Museums. Music. Art. Exploring. So many of the things I love now are things I either adored as a child or wished I could do more of back then. Honoring that curiosity has added so much joy and excitement to my life and I plan to keep saying yes to those experiences.
The days between Christmas and the new year are strange, sacred, and revealing. They slow us down just enough to hear ourselves think.
So I’ll ask you this:
What did you reflect on during the holiday vortex this year?
Joy is returning to what you loved as a child!