2004 reflections, 2025 expectations

THE end of the year often comes with a lot of reflection, especially as we look to a new year with new beginnings, and new expectations. Did you meet all the goals you set for yourself in 2024?

Life coach and actualisation specialist Yolanda Livingston said it’s okay if you didn’t, but she also said it’s important to keep stock of where the weak areas are, so you can work on them.

Here are some questions she said women should be asking themselves, as they exit 2024.

1) Did you make progress toward improving your physical fitness, nutrition, or mental well-being?

2) How did you prioritise self-care this year, and what worked best for you?

3) Were there any unexpected challenges that impacted your ability to reach your health goals?

4) Looking back, what habits or routines helped you stay on track with your health?

5) What health-related accomplishment are you most proud of this year?

6) How did you manage to balance parenting responsibilities with your personal needs?

7) Did you create any new traditions or routines with your children this year?

8) How did you handle challenges in parenting, such as discipline or communication?

9) In what ways did you feel more connected to your children in 2024?

10) Did you set specific goals for improving or nurturing your relationships this year?

11) How did you invest time and energy into your relationships with your partner, family, or friends?

12) Were there any key moments of growth or understanding in your relationships this year?

13) Did you feel supported in your relationships this year? If not, what do you feel was missing?

14) What relationship milestone or connection are you most grateful for in 2024?

15) How do you feel about the progress you made toward your goals this year?

16) If you didn’t fully meet your goals, what do you think held you back?

17) What would you do differently next year to get closer to your goals?

18) What new goals are you considering for 2025 in these areas?

“Reflecting on your goals is vital because it helps you assess your growth, celebrate accomplishments, and identify areas for improvement,” Livingston said. “Without taking the time to reflect, it’s easy to overlook progress or repeat patterns that hinder success. By evaluating the year, women can reconnect with their values and ensure their actions align with what truly matters to them.“

She said in parenting, this might mean reassessing how they nurture their children, while in relationships, it could involve addressing communication gaps.

”Health reflections, on the other hand, may highlight the need for self-care or lifestyle adjustments. This intentional approach helps create meaningful changes and encourages personal growth, ensuring that future goals are rooted in purpose and practicality rather than pressure or expectation,” Livingston said.