A New Year, A Next Chapter - Choosing Health, Connection, and Community
The start of a new year offers something rare:
a natural pause.
A moment to reflect.
To take stock.
To ask—not what should I do next—but how do I want to live this next chapter?
For me, this year is about intentionality—in how I care for myself, how I show up for others, and how I continue building connection with readers who have found their way here.
Choosing Health to Support the Life I’m Living
One of my personal intentions this year is to focus even more deliberately on my diet and exercise. While I’ve been working with my personal trainer, Kyle for years, I want to do more. Not from a place of perfection or pressure—but from care.
I want the energy to do meaningful work.
The strength to stay present with the people I love.
And the capacity to say yes to what matters most.
For me, health isn’t about numbers or rules. It’s about alignment—between body, values, and purpose.
Building Community, Not Just a Book
When I wrote The Long Way Here, I hoped the stories might resonate. What I didn’t fully anticipate was the depth of connection that followed – readers sharing their own stories of loss, growth, leadership, and becoming.
Those messages reminded me of something important: this work was never meant to be a one-way conversation.
This year, I want to intentionally build community—through blog reflections, conversations, and upcoming events. A space where we can pause together, reflect honestly, and remind one another that leadership and life are rarely linear—and never meant to be walked alone.
The Intentional Path of Being Self-Published
Being a self-published author has also been a teacher.
Reaching people doesn’t happen by accident.
It requires presence.
Consistency.
And the courage to keep showing up.
Putting my independence tendency aside and accepting the help of others graciously.
Touching lives—one story, one reflection at a time—requires intention. This year, I’m committing to that: sharing thoughtfully, listening deeply, and trusting that small, steady steps can create meaningful impact.
An Invitation as We Begin
As you step into this new year, I invite you to reflect:
Where might you care for yourself more intentionally?
What kind of energy do you want to bring into this year?
What kind of community do you want to be part of—or help create?
If you’re here reading this, I’m grateful. And if this year feels like a turning point, a quiet beginning, or a gentle reset, I hope you’ll walk it with me.
Here’s to the next chapter—
not rushed,
not perfect,
just intentional.
I’d love to hear what you’re focusing on this year—health, connection, growth, or something else entirely. Feel free to share a reflection or reach out.