My Final 5 Lessons of 2024: Insights on Relationships, Energy, and Actio
I hope you’ve had a chance to reflect on the lessons I shared in Part 1 of my 2024 reflections. It’s been inspiring to hear from so many of you about what resonated the most. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
As we continue this journey of growth, I want to dive deeper into some of the key areas that have shaped my year: relationships, energy, and taking action.
These are all interconnected, and as we close out 2024, I hope these lessons can provide clarity and inspire you to approach the new year with intention and purpose.
Let Them
The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins encourages individuals to release the need to control others' actions, opinions, or decisions and instead prioritize their own well-being. The core principle is simple: "let them." Let people make their own choices, hold their opinions, and act as they wish—even if you don’t agree. This practice redirects your energy away from things you can't control, allowing you to focus on your boundaries and reactions.
When someone acts in a way that doesn’t align with your expectations, saying "let them" out loud can help you detach from their behavior, reduce stress, and foster healthier relationships. It removes the burden of feeling responsible for managing others' problems or meeting their expectations. By trusting that others can handle their own lives, you reclaim energy to invest in what truly matters to you.
Find What Energizes You
What makes you feel truly alive? What gets you fired up? If you already know the answer, prioritize those activities in your life. If nothing comes to mind, it’s your responsibility to explore and experiment until you discover what ignites your passion. Life is meant to be lived with energy and purpose. When I make time for the things that excite and fulfill me, I naturally feel more energized, vibrant, and alive. This creates a ripple effect, leading to a healthier, happier lifestyle.
Action Cures Anxiety
Anxiety arises when we focus too much on the past or future. The past can’t be changed, and the future is unpredictable, leading to fear and hesitation. The antidote is action. By staying present and focusing on what you can control right now, you shift your attention from worry to progress. Ask yourself: What can I do today to move forward?
One of the fastest ways to boost your mood and calm anxiety is to go for a walk. Physical movement helps reduce stress and clear your mind. Being present also activates the brain's focus centers, enhancing clarity and productivity. When we dwell on past mistakes or future uncertainties, our brain’s stress response takes over, impairing decision-making. Focusing on the present boosts cognitive function and helps you perform at your best.
Spend More Time in the Clouds
In entrepreneurship, there's a theory about balancing time in the trenches and time in the clouds. The "trenches" are where the hard work happens—product creation, customer interactions, sales, and operations. The "clouds" refer to stepping back, where strategic thinking and big ideas are born.
Bill Gates famously took one week every year, known as "Think Week," to disconnect from daily tasks and immerse himself in deep reading and reflection. This time allowed him to focus on the future of Microsoft without being distracted by immediate concerns. Taking time to reflect, whether through walks, exercise, or personal solitude, can help you come up with high-level ideas that wouldn’t emerge during the busy workday. Balancing both is essential for innovation and growth.
Say I Love You
“If you admire someone, go ahead and tell them; people never get the roses while they can still smell them.” Expressing love and admiration might feel uncomfortable or vulnerable at times, but it’s worth the effort. Don’t assume they know how you feel; make it clear. Take the lead and say, “I love you” or “I appreciate you.” Even if they don’t say it back, it could mean the world to them. A simple reminder of love and gratitude can strengthen relationships, lift someone’s spirits, and leave a lasting impact.
As we step into 2025, I encourage you to take these lessons to heart and evaluate how you can apply them to your own relationships, energy, and actions.
Remember, every choice you make is an opportunity to align yourself with the life you want to create.
I’d love to know—what lessons from this part resonated most with you? Are there any insights you’ve gained this year that you’d like to share? I always enjoy hearing from you.
I’m excited to continue this journey with you in 2025.
