Hello Soul Family,
As we wrap up 2025, I want you to take a deep breath and give yourself a moment. No need to judge or compare or push yourself to be “further along.” Just notice how far you’ve come. It doesn’t matter if this year felt heavy, healing, slow, or full of surprises—you’ve made it here, and that’s enough.
So, for this last newsletter of the year, let’s talk honestly about reflecting, getting clear on what you want, and actually setting up the next steps as you step into 2026. Forget resolutions for a second after all, by February we’ve forgotten them. This is more about letting go (RELEASE), starting fresh (RENEW), and moving forward with intention and expectation (RISE).
RELEASE
Let’s be real – release isn’t about pretending your past didn’t happen. It’s about dropping whatever’s weighing you down, whether it’s old habits, negative self-talk, or those relationships that just aren’t good for you anymore. Maybe you’re battling imposter syndrome or self-doubt that keeps you from appreciating your progress – this is your chance to let it go. As we close out 2025, decide what or who you need to let go of what that weighs you down, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and relationally.
RENEW
To renew, give yourself permission to try something new, or even just be a little kinder to yourself. No matter what the world says or the voices from your past, you’re allowed to dream, to hope, and to chase opportunities that actually fit who you are. Start small—pick a habit or practice that fills your cup. Celebrate every little win – it’s still a win. And be careful not to focus on the end. Renewal starts with the beginning, getting started. Practice self-discipline. Discover the ‘why’ to stay motivated. Renewal isn’t just about big changes; it’s about the tiny, everyday choices that help you feel better about yourself.
RISE
To rise means stepping into 2026 with courage and intention. It doesn’t mean you have everything figured out. It doesn’t mean you’re suddenly confident every day. No, it’s deciding to move forward, even with your imperfections and uncertainties. It’s not even necessarily a fearless move. It’s a courageous move to rise above your fears and doubts. When you rise, you aren’t becoming someone new – you’re becoming more of who you’ve always been underneath the weights. Imagine what 2026 can look like if you walk into it without the weights you’ve been carrying. Let yourself envision a year where your healing is not rushed, your growth is not compared, and your goals are rooted in compassion instead of pressure to fit in. Allow yourself to rise, knowing you are worthy of everything good 2026 can bring
Soul Reflection
Take a few moments to sit with your thoughts. Think about your growth, where you want to go, and what you need to release, renew, and rise. This is your space to pause and reset for the year ahead.
“Release what drains you. Renew what strengthens you. Rise into what is calling you.”
Journal Prompts to RELEASE
What am I still holding onto out of habit, fear, or familiarity? What would it feel like to release it?
What beliefs about myself no longer support my growth? Where did those beliefs originally come from?
Journal Prompts to RENEW
What have I learned about myself this year that I want to honor and carry into 2026?
Which habits supported my healing this year? How can I renew my commitment to them?
Journal Prompts to RISE
What would my life look like if I fully released fear, guilt, shame, or self-doubt? Write the vision.
What do I want my 2026 story to say about my courage, resilience, or boundaries?
THE SOUL’S CORNER…
- A Therapist’s Emotional Tool Kit for a Better Holiday Season
- Oprah Explores the Rising Trend of Going No Contact with Your Family on the Oprah Podcast –
- The Danger of Weaponizing Our Personal Boundaries, by Margeaux Feldman, in TIME.
- Embrace the Suck: Discomfort Can Build a Better You, by Jill Schulman in Psychology Today.
