Reflections for 2025: Balance, Grief, Growth & Grace
Balance, Grief, Growth & Grace
My word going into 2025 was BALANCE.
As I reflect now, I find myself questioning whether that’s what I achieved—or whether achieving it was ever the point.
This year has felt challenging and heavy in so many ways. At times it has required real effort, and I’ve exercised emotions across the full spectrum. It has been a true test of resilience and an invitation into deeper boundaries and personal space—creating a pathway to step into 2026 with SIMPLICITY.
Family, Responsibility & Love in Action
Family health and safety became a priority this year, particularly for my elderly parents, following increased caring responsibilities and hospitalisations that were no longer sustainable. While this transition hasn’t been easy for anyone, it’s been deeply comforting to see my parents settled together—the most important part—happy, engaged in activities, and enjoying a party Christmas dinner and New Year celebration.
When feelings of guilt or “not enough” surface, I remind myself that every decision was grounded in love and purpose—even when, at times, I felt I fell short in my parents’ eyes. Staying resolute in our decisions was necessary, and one beautiful by-product of this year has been strengthening the connection with my siblings as we navigated it together. The support I’ve felt has been genuinely heartwarming.
My nervous system has finally shifted from a constant state of high alert to something closer to balance. That adjustment has taken months—for all of us. Alongside that, there’s been an unexpected sense of loss: their home sold, the caring role passed to others, and the daily demands reduced. Change, even when right, carries grief.
Loss, Love & Letting Go
We sadly lost Stuart’s dad to dementia in autumn, and we continue to support his mum as she navigates a new normal. The gift in that loss was time—time well spent with his dad, and a reminder of the beauty of a long, simple life. A message worth holding close.
And in December, our lifelong friend Cocoa the cat crossed the rainbow bridge after 18 years of play, cuddles, and unconditional love. The gap she leaves is palpable. We are eternally grateful for her gentle spirit and healing heart.
Work, Friendship & Shared Humanity
Despite all of this, my work has provided stability and purpose. I’m deeply grateful to every business, associate, client, and group that chooses to work with me. Together, we continue to create and attract heart-centred, transformative work. Purposeful work keeps me grounded and—yes—balanced.
Friendships have mattered more than ever. Navigating life alongside people who offer support, humour, compassion, and shared understanding is essential. To those who have held my hand through this year: I appreciate you more than words can say.
And my crazy hubby—2025 saw us walking hand in hand, sometimes questioning where Google Maps was taking us, often with tears and Prosecco in equal measure. But we did it together, and that matters most.
Shadow Work & Unexpected Growth
This year has been a lot. I’ve learned more about my shadow self than ever before, and at times I’ve had to dig very deep. Growth has come in unexpected ways, and while not always comfortable, it has been meaningful.
The Greatest Light
The greatest light of 2025 was the birth of our grandson, Reeve.
Wow. What a feeling when your own baby has a baby—utterly indescribable.
Our hearts are full as this little bundle of love touches us all in ways no other experience can. Balance comes in many forms. Sometimes it’s found in the simplicity of a smile, a gurgle, a cuddle, the abundance of presence he creates—and of course, the many outfits he requires! Watching my daughter and her partner fully embrace parenthood, filled with happiness and gratitude for their world, has been truly magical.
So…Was 2025 Balanced?
I think it was—just not in the way I expected.
2025 was the Year of the Snake 🐍:
a year of endings and closure, shedding old identities, truth revealed, emotional detox, grief and healing, breaking old cycles, and releasing attachments.
And now, I step into 2026 with my word: SIMPLICITY.
Do what you love. Love what you do.
2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse, inviting:
New beginnings
Forward movement
Momentum and action
Independence
Courage and confidence
Creativity and passion
Freedom and expansion
Fast manifestation
Alignment with purpose
As you reflect on your year, what stands out for you?
What word defined your 2025, and how will you step into 2026?
I’m sending you all my love and encouragement for the next chapter of life-ing.
You’ve got this. 💛
So, are you interested in starting your personal development journey and seeing where is can take you? If that answer is YES, get in touch with us and we will be happy to help.
