A Time to Reflect on How Far We’ve Come

Take a moment to think back on the past year. What are you proud of? Maybe you reconnected with an old friend, completed a project, or took a leap of faith that scared you. Maybe you gave yourself the grace to rest when you needed it most. Whatever it is, give yourself credit. Every small win, every moment of growth, and every act of resilience deserves recognition.

As the year winds down and we prepare to welcome a new one, it’s natural to look back and take stock of what we’ve accomplished, what we’ve learned, and what we’ve overcome. For many of us, this process is not just about ticking off goals or milestones; it’s about honoring the journey and the strength it took to navigate it. Reflection is a powerful tool. It allows us to acknowledge where we’ve been and gain clarity on where we’re going. But here’s the truth: we don’t always meet every goal we set at the beginning of the year. Life happens. Plans shift. Priorities change. And that’s okay.

In fact, there’s a quiet kind of victory in simply enduring through tough times, staying the course when it feels like the odds are against you, and continuing to show up for yourself and your community. Those moments may not come with a certificate or applause, but they are worth celebrating nonetheless.

It’s equally important to reflect on the lessons learned. Sometimes, the hardest experiences teach us the most valuable lessons. They show us our strength, deepen our wisdom, and sharpen our focus. These lessons prepare us for what’s to come, helping us to approach the future with greater purpose and intention.

As Veterans, we are no strangers to challenges. We know what it means to push through adversity, to adapt, and to lead—not just others, but ourselves. Our journeys are often marked by transitions and transformations, and each one adds to the story of who we are becoming.

So, as we reflect on this year, remember to celebrate yourself.  Celebrate the goals you achieved, the progress you made, and even the goals you didn’t meet. Why? Because every effort you put forth matters. Every setback you faced and overcame matters. And every time you chose to keep moving forward, even when it wasn’t easy, matters.

Now, let’s turn our eyes toward the future. A new year is a blank canvas, full of possibilities. It’s an opportunity to dream bigger, to aim higher, and to continue the work of becoming the best version of yourself.

As we set our goals and intentions for the year ahead, let’s approach them with both ambition and grace. Ambition fuels our drive to achieve. Grace reminds us to be kind to ourselves along the way. Together, they create a balance that helps us grow without burning out.

Here are five tips to help us set and accomplish our goals for the new year:

1. Start with clarity: Take time to identify what truly matters to you. Set goals that align with your values and vision for the future. The more specific and meaningful your goals are, the easier it will be to stay motivated.

2. Break it down: Big goals can feel overwhelming. Break them into smaller, actionable steps. Focus on one step at a time, and celebrate small wins along the way.

3. Write it down: Putting your goals in writing makes them tangible and increases your commitment to achieving them. Keep your list visible as a daily reminder of what you’re working toward.

4. Stay flexible: Life is unpredictable. Be willing to adjust your goals or timeline if necessary. Flexibility ensures you stay on track even when unexpected challenges arise.

5. Build a support system: Share your goals with trusted friends or a supportive community. Accountability and encouragement from others can make a big difference in staying focused and motivated.

No matter what this past year has looked like for you, know that you have the power to write the next chapter. And you don’t have to do it alone. You are part of a community of strong, resilient women ~Camouflaged Sisters~ who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of military life and life as Veterans. Lean on this community. Celebrate with us.

Let’s support one another. As we step into this new year, we want you all to feel a sense of hope and excitement. There are opportunities awaiting us, goals to be chased, and memories to be made. But more than anything, there is the chance to continue building a life that reflects who you truly are and all that you’re capable of.

Here’s to US, each one of us, and all that we’ve accomplished this past year! And here’s to a bright, bold, and beautiful year ahead. Let’s walk into it with open hearts, clear intentions, and unshakable confidence in ourselves and each other.

Happy New Year! The best is yet to come!