Finding Balance in 2025: A Guide to Intentional Living and Goal Setting
In the whirlwind of life, sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is pause. As Leonardo da Vinci wisely counseled: "Every now and then go away, have a little relaxation, for when you come back to your work your judgment will be surer. Go some distance away because then the work appears smaller and more of it can be taken in at a glance and a lack of harmony and proportion is more readily seen."
The Power of Taking Inventory: Your Year in Review
Before diving into 2025's possibilities, let's take a page from Mel Robbins' powerful reflection process. By examining your photo roll and calendar from 2024, you can uncover themes and patterns you might have missed. Ask yourself these crucial questions:
What were your highlights this year?
What were the hardest parts?
What did you learn about yourself?
What will you stop doing?
What will you start doing?
What will you continue doing?
What can you do today to take that first step?
Embracing Dual Journaling for Better Balance
This year, I'm taking my journaling practice to the next level. While the Saint Belford journal will serve as my structured goal-setting companion, I'm also incorporating a free-form journal for daily thoughts, brainstorming, and emotional processing. Every morning, I'm dedicating 30 minutes to this dual journaling practice – creating space for both structured planning and creative flow.
My Word for 2025: Balance
Balance isn't just a buzzword; it's a revolutionary act in a world that often demands constant hustle. My vision of balance encompasses three key areas:
Personal Growth & Self-Care
Daily meditation and mindfulness practices
Regular exercise routines that honor my body
Intentional reading time for personal development
Health-focused meal planning and preparation
Professional Evolution
Growing Hourglass Coaching Baltimore to empower more individuals, especially professionals seeking work-life harmony
Developing innovative coaching programs
Creating inclusive networking opportunities
Expanding workplace mediation expertise
Family and Community Connection
Monthly family game nights featuring beloved board games
Weekly reading nights where we share our current books
Thoughtful travel experiences that create lasting memories
Implementing regular digital detox periods
Mindful spending practices that align with our values
The Art of Soft Slowness: Learning from da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci, despite his incredible productivity, understood the power of pause and reflection. In our modern context, "soft slowness" isn't about doing less – it's about doing things with more intention. This includes:
The power of saying "no" to preserve your energy
Creating rituals that honor your natural rhythms
Choosing quality over quantity in both work and relationships
Embracing periods of rest as essential to creativity
Setting Milestones with Heart
As I build Hourglass Coaching Baltimore, my mission is to help others find their version of balance. Whether you're navigating career transitions, personal growth, or family dynamics, having support in setting and achieving milestones can make all the difference.
Your Turn: Stating Goals with Pride
I encourage you, readers, to boldly claim your aspirations for 2025. What does balance look like for you? How will you combine ambition with self-care? Your goals deserve to be spoken aloud, written down, and pursued with confidence.
Creating Sustainable Routines
The key to achieving balance lies in creating sustainable routines that honor both our ambitions and our need for rest. Some practices I'm implementing include:
Morning journaling sessions
Weekly planning reviews
Monthly goal check-ins
Quarterly personal retreats for deeper reflection
Looking Forward with Intention
As we step into 2025, remember that balance isn't about perfection – it's about making conscious choices that align with our values and aspirations. Whether through journaling, coaching, or structured planning, find the tools and support systems that resonate with your unique journey.
What stories will your 2025 photo roll tell? What themes will emerge in your journal pages? By combining thoughtful reflection with intentional action, we can create a year that honors both our dreams and our need for sustainable growth.
Ready to start your journey toward balance? Take that first step today – whether it's opening a new journal, scheduling your first coaching session, or simply taking a moment to breathe and reflect on what truly matters to you in 2025.
