How I’m Setting Intentional Goals for 2025 to Rebuild My Life

For the last 16 months, I’ve been standing at a crossroads, unsure of whether to go right or left. Losing my son has left me feeling like I’m floating aimlessly, with no clear direction. It’s a strange place to be for someone who was always “go, go, go”—someone who never questioned the next step. Now, I find myself second-guessing everything. I have a million ideas, dreams, and desires, but nothing seems to stick because I no longer know if it's the "right" thing for me.

This year, I want to set intentional goals that can give me a foundation to rebuild. Even though I’ve had a tough time sticking to things recently, I know I need to start somewhere—even if it’s small. The key is to just start and keep going, one step at a time.

1. Emotional and Mental Well-Being

One of the most important things I’ve been focusing on is my mental and emotional health. I’ve been seeing a therapist for a long time, even before my son passed, and that’s something I’ve continued. About three months ago, I also began seeing a psychiatrist because I was terrified of how fast I was spiraling into depression. Starting medication has been helpful, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle.

In addition to therapy, I plan to commit to just 5-10 minutes of mindful breathing or guided meditation each morning. I hope this small act will help me process my emotions and create a sense of calm that I desperately need in my life.

2. Health and Physical Well-Being

Another area I’m setting goals in is my physical health. After learning that I have high cholesterol and am prediabetic three months ago, I’ve tried to be more mindful of my eating habits, though I haven’t been perfect. My aim for the new year is to make healthier choices a priority, more often than not.

I’m planning to add more movement to my routine, aiming for a walk five times a week, even if it's just 20 minutes. It’s a great way for me to reconnect with my body and boost my energy. I’d also like to try incorporating some strength training. Funny thing, I can swing a jackhammer through a wall with ease, but struggle to do a push-up or make it across the monkey bars! And let's be real—gravity’s always at play. So if a bit of weight training can help keep things lifted a little longer, count me in!

3. Career Direction

Financial stability has been a constant stressor, especially after taking a job that came with a significant pay cut. I didn’t seek out the job—I accepted it out of necessity and regain stability after being unemployed for 8 months. I was desperate for work, and the role felt like a way to re-enter society after losing my son.

But now, after a year, I know it’s time to move on. My goal for 2025 is to update my resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect the strengths and passions that excite me. Although I’m still figuring out my vision, I’m determined to keep applying for new opportunities that align with my career aspirations.

4. Home and Living Environment

If you had asked me a year ago if I’d ever consider moving, I would’ve said “absolutely not.” The thought of leaving the home where I created so many memories with my son seemed unbearable. But today, I feel different. It’s time for a change, even though I’m still uncertain about where I want to go.

Ultimately, landing a new job will guide where I go next, especially if it’s an in-person or hybrid role. But if I can find a fully remote position—which is my top choice—the possibilities are endless! In my mind, I’d love to settle in a quaint, Hallmark-movie kind of town, with charming coffee shops within walking distance and a friendly, close-knit community—something I’ve struggled to find here in South Florida. So, over the next few months, I’m focusing on researching places that fit my finances and lifestyle dreams. I’m also continuing to declutter my apartment, aiming to return it to its original condition to ensure I get my security deposit back when I’m ready to move.

5. Day-to-Day Lifestyle Changes

One of the things I’ve been thinking about a lot lately is dance. From the time I was just three until I was about fifteen, I practically lived in the dance studio, doing ballet, tap, flamenco, and jazz. A few years ago, I even took a salsa class, which I really enjoyed. But this time, I’m leaning toward classical ballet. Ballet is such a technical form of dance—it would help me with movement, flexibility, and even provide an emotional outlet. Just to be clear, though: I have no plans or desire to be caught on a stage! Reintroducing a passion project or hobby like this into my life within the first six months of the year feels like the right step. I miss the things that used to light me up, and I’m ready to reconnect with them again.

6. Long-Term Vision and Rebuilding Hope

Looking ahead, I know that I need to set gentle, flexible goals for the next six months. These could include emotional milestones, career steps, or financial improvements. I’m giving myself permission to adjust as needed because healing and growth are not linear.

This year, I’m actually excited about creating a vision board. Last year, with my son’s passing still so raw, I couldn’t bring myself to make one. My mind kept saying, “How can I envision a life when a huge part of it is gone?” Instead, I made an affirmation board, though I barely looked at it. But now, I feel more hopeful. The hardest thing I could imagine has already happened, and while challenges may come, nothing will break me like that loss. A vision board feels like a way to map out where I want to be—emotionally, physically, and professionally. Most of all, I want to find meaning in this journey. In 2025, I’ll set time aside to reflect on ways to honor my son’s memory while rediscovering my own purpose, whether that’s through creative projects, helping others, or simply living fully for both of us.

I’m learning that it’s okay not to have all the answers right now. What matters is that I’m setting small, intentional goals to rebuild my life, one step at a time.