After a demanding season, we chose to slow down instead of pushing forward. What happened next surprised us: clarity returned, conversations deepened, and joy found its way back into the busy. This is the story of what can happen when leaders give themselves permission to pause.

We all carry two voices inside us. One rooted in fear, doubt, and self-criticism. The other grounded in strength, kindness, and self-trust. I was reminded of this through an old story about two wolves … and later, through a quiet moment with a mother and daughter whose courage showed me what it really means to choose yourself, one small act at a time.

We didn’t rush into the new year. We paused. With a candle lit and a few honest moments, we took stock of what the past year left us carrying — and made a quiet choice about what we’re ready to set down and what we want to move forward with instead.

This is a reflection on letting go, choosing intention, and starting again with awareness.

Writing found me early.
Long before blogs and platforms, it showed up quietly in a school library, during a moment meant for skipping class. I didn’t know then that words would keep finding me — helping me make sense of feelings, hold other people’s stories, and say the things I wasn’t ready to speak out loud. Writing became the place I returned to when I needed clarity, honesty, and a little courage.

I’m not a plant person, but learning about the agave made me pause. Its quiet strength, slow growth, and ability to endure without constant tending felt deeply familiar—and became a reflection on resilience, patience, and not quitting.

For the women who carry a lot and give a lot. This is a story about why choosing yourself can’t always wait.

New Year’s Eve brings up a lot more than resolutions. It’s a moment to pause, look back, and notice what we’re still carrying. This is a reflection on connection, presence, and why going into a new year feels better when we don’t do it alone.