Move at Your Own Pace: New Year 2025 Reflections

Lately, my days feel less about checking tasks off a list and more about embracing life’s flow. January often comes with a push to maximize productivity, but winter is meant for rest, reflection, and holding on to what nourishes us before blooming in spring. Sometimes, it’s also about those magical, timeless moments where anything feels possible.

Last week, Metro Atlanta received a rare 3-4 inches of snow. I initially dreaded it, recalling the chaos of 2014, but my daughter’s excitement transformed my perspective. At 6, she’d never seen a true snow day. We didn’t have proper gloves or time for a full snowman, but she made her first snow angel, had a mini snowball fight, and explored the woods as the snow melted. The afternoon sun’s glow made the experience feel whimsical, and for the first time, I understood winter’s magic: its stillness, calm, and cozy pace.

As someone who thrives on summer’s energy, this shift felt different. Playing in the snow with my daughter reminded me of the joy of slowing down. While I was savoring the moment, two emails arrived: one confirming my artwork in an upcoming show and another about a new commission. They affirmed that slowing down doesn’t mean losing progress—it often leads to clarity and alignment.

The new year’s pressure for resolutions and transformations can feel overwhelming, but what if we eased in instead? Resting, reflecting, and playing can be just as productive. This year, I aim to move intentionally, focusing on big projects and long-term goals while valuing daily wins—like a snowball fight with my daughter—as part of the journey.

So here’s a reminder: move at your own pace, rest more, and celebrate every win. Productivity isn’t always about to-do lists; often, it’s the quiet, joyful moments that sustain us most.