Wellbeing

Relections and Intentions for 2025

As the year comes to a close, we find ourselves at a natural pause—a moment to reflect on all that we have experienced and accomplished this year. This time of the year often stirs up a mixture of emotions: a sense of wonder at how quickly time has passed, an anticipation for the future, and sometimes even a touch of criticism as we look at what we did and didn’t achieve. But this year, let’s take a different approach. Instead of dissecting the year for what it was, let’s focus on embracing gratitude, acknowledging our successes, as well as the lessons we learned without judgement, while being kind to ourselves as we set positive intentions for the year ahead.

Celebrating Growth

The end of the year provides a powerful opportunity to celebrate the progress we’ve made, both big and small. Whether you have conquered a difficult subject, developed a new skill, or simply navigated the ups and downs of school life, these achievements deserve recognition. Each victory, no matter how minor it may seem, is a testament to your growth. Perhaps you’ve built more confidence, formed deeper connections with others, or learned how to balance school with personal life. These moments of success are valuable markers of how far you’ve come. However, growth isn’t just about the things we get right. Often, it’s in our mistakes, our challenges, and our setbacks that we find our greatest opportunities for learning. This year, what have you discovered about yourself? Maybe you’ve found that time management is more challenging than you expected, or that certain obstacles pushed you to develop new strategies for success. These lessons, however messy or imperfect, are essential to the journey, and they will continue to guide you in the years to come.

Releasing Doubts and Embracing Compassion 

It’s easy to become fixated on what we didn’t accomplish, but this year, let’s choose to release the doubts and self-criticism that often hold us back. It’s essential to be kind to ourselves, recognizing that not everything goes as planned. Perhaps this year didn’t go the way you envisioned, or you may have ended up on a path that doesn’t bring you happiness. Whether that’s due to choices you’ve made, a lack of motivation, or circumstances beyond your control, remember this: It doesn’t have to define your future. You have the power to make the choice for change. This moment, right now, is the perfect time to set a new direction. Let go of the past, acknowledge what you’ve learned, and embrace the fresh opportunities ahead. As we reflect on the past year, let’s embrace self-compassion. Acknowledge the areas where we struggled, but also give ourselves credit for the strength and resilience we showed in facing those challenges. Remember, growth doesn’t happen in straight lines—it’s full of twists and turns, and learning moments. Let’s take this time to let go of the things that no longer serve us and make space for new opportunities.

Setting Intentions for the New Year 

Looking ahead to 2025, there is a world of possibility waiting for us. The transition to a new year level is much like stepping through a door into the unknown—a door filled with new experiences, fresh challenges, and exciting growth. As you think about the year ahead, it’s important to set clear intentions for what you want to achieve, but also for how you want to feel. Maybe you want to improve your study habits, push yourself outside your comfort zone, or focus on your physical and mental wellbeing. Setting goals is important, but it’s equally vital to think about the kind of person you want to become. Remember that wellbeing is a key part of this journey. As you set your intentions for the year, be sure to prioritize self-care, mindfulness, and balance. Create boundaries to protect your time, nourish your body, and practice kindness toward yourself when things don’t go as planned. The new year offers a chance to reflect, reset, and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.

Embracing Change with Optimism 

Heraclitus, the ancient Greek philosopher, once said, “The only constant in life is change.” As we reflect on the year that has passed, we can see how much we have grown, both personally and academically. And as we step into 2025, we can look forward to new experiences, new opportunities, and new challenges. Change is inevitable, but it also brings the promise of growth. With each door that closes, a new one opens, and the possibilities that lie ahead are boundless. As we close the chapter on 2024, let’s celebrate the journey we’ve undertaken. Let’s honour our achievements, reflect on the lessons we’ve learned, and embrace the exciting opportunities that await us in the year ahead. With optimism and intention, let’s move forward into 2025, ready to grow, explore, and make the most of every moment. Here’s to new beginnings and all the incredible things the future holds.

Wishing you joyful & restful holidays,

Riva Dhingra and the Wellbeing team