A 2024 of Highs, Lows and learning to be kinder to myself

This post could easily be a very traditional one. Honestly, I started writing it with the mindset of reflecting on the past and planning for the future. After all, it’s almost New Year’s Eve—what better time to close out the year with this kind of content?

But today, Sunday, December 29th, I have to admit it hasn’t been one of the more pleasant days of the year. I found myself pushing the people I love most to their limits, refusing to meet them halfway, and being overly rigid and absolute in my theories, perspectives, and opinions.

It brought to mind a song from my favorite childhood metal band, Fates Warning—the song Point of View. If you know it, you’ll understand exactly what I mean.

Looking out on a familiar scene
There's no agreement in what we see
Your perception lacks clarity
And my perspective is blinding me

Side by side
Divided they stand

Parallel lives running parallel with you
To the point where our horizons divide
My opinion is just a point of view
And your position is the other side

Caught up in our convictions, we forget
How our senses distort things we see
We can't accept our differences
But we can always disagree

Side by side
Divided they stand

Parallel lives running parallel with you
To the point where our horizons divide
My opinion is just a point of view
And your position is the other side

Where I stand is not so far from you
A different opinion is just another point of view

I’m not going to let a bad moment ruin a great year. How could I? Yet, I can’t ignore the recurring themes behind those bad moments, nor am I entirely sure that my narrative of a positive, upward trend is enough to carry me forward.

So, my friends, as I look back on 2024, I’m making a conscious choice not to punish myself. Instead, I’ll celebrate all the incredible things I accomplished this year, thanks to the love and support of my family. From the simple joys—like staying committed to my book reading list, fixing my back garden with a DIY approach, and creating small, diverse sources of income—to the bigger milestones, like this blog. A space where I put myself out there without expecting anything in return. And, of course, after 15 years under one professional roof, I took the leap to pursue something entirely new.

I can proudly say that 2024 was an amazing year!

But as I move beyond the headlines and focus on the human connections, I see areas where I fell short. Some unfulfilled promises. Some broken relationships. And a few connections I continue to nurture but know I need to improve.

It’s a moment of clarity: I might not have all the tools I need to grow on my own—not just through books, movies, or long conversations.

Looking ahead, my one goal for 2025 is to actively seek support to improve how I see myself. To love myself a little more, forgive myself a little more, and accept that tears are a natural part of being human.

Maybe this is how I’ll soften my impatience, let go of anger, and start replacing negativity with bridges that bring me closer to the people who matter.

And maybe more people, all year long.

See you all in 2025 - Happy New Year.