Looking Back to Move Forward: Year-End Reflection Questions
A guided pause to reflect, release, and step intentionally into what’s next.
2025 was a wild ride for me. I don’t know about you, but this past year felt like a full-body exhale and a shove from behind at the same time. In numerology, 2025 was a nine year—a year of completion, release, transformation, and closure. And now we step into 2026, which is a one year: new beginnings, new energy, new direction are in store.
I’ve always believed reflection is one of the most powerful tools we have—not just for understanding our development, but for intentionally shaping what comes next. Reflection requires emotional intelligence. It’s not simply thinking about what happened; it’s understanding why it happened, how it impacted you, and what it reveals about the path ahead. That requires emotional skills, not just cognitive ones.
At the end of every year, I reflect with myself and offer a list of questions to my clients. And I can always tell when someone hasn’t put much effort into their answers. It doesn’t mean they lack emotional intelligence—it more often means they missed an opportunity to deepen their understanding of themselves. I share this as a gentle reminder: when you practice reflection, don’t skim or rush. Be brave enough to go deep.
And this year? I didn’t squander the opportunity.
My divorce was finalized in 2025. I moved 800 miles away from my sons. My oldest went to University. I doubled down on Live Your Jam: launched a podcast, invested serious time and resources, all while keeping my coaching and consulting practice going. I reconnected with old personal and professional relationships in California after six years away, and I met new people who have become part of my unfolding story.
I’ve started hiking exploring the trails of Sonoma County. I love learning new routes and the history here. I joined a Dancercise class with my cousin that is pure joy—filled with women of all ages, including one who is 92. Every time I see her, I’m reminded that 80% of life is just showing up.
And because I’m a Leo (and I hope this isn’t too bold), most everywhere I go, someone tries to befriend me. I don’t say this with boastfulness; I say it with gratitude. I’m thankful my energy draws people in—but I’ve learned to wait for the energies that truly match mine.
I’ve learned to watch my emotions come and go—to witness them instead of getting swept away. I’ve learned to sit with loneliness and recognize that with God, Source, The Divine—I am never alone.
I also transitioned in my role as a mom. I’ve learned to put myself first without guilt, understanding that it’s the healthiest choice—not just for me, but for everyone I love. What I’m building isn’t separate from my sons; it’s anchored in becoming a woman who finally puts her own life jacket on first.
2025 wasn’t easy—it demanded inner work, courage, and clarity. And inner work rarely comes with instant gratification. It shows up as subtle shifts and slow changes that feel meaningful even when no one is applauding. It’s the kind of work that reveals who you’re becoming long before anyone says, “Yay for you!”
But the truth is—the applause was constant. It came through acts of kindness.
I was given so many blessings from beloved friends and family this year: TV appearances, podcast opportunities, a timely text reminding me I’m loved, the effort people made to travel and connect in person, invitations to share via Zoom, wearing and sharing my Live Your Jam work out in the world, and all the reels sent that hit my funny bone just right. Every gesture felt like a hand on my back, gently supporting me forward.
I have a love/hate relationship with getting wiser. Sometimes ignorance truly feels like bliss, and I miss the ease that came with it. I’m learning to live in that tension—and to remember that certainty isn’t something any of us actually have.
I have so much to bring into 2026 and I know you do, too. When we connect more deeply with ourselves, we show up with greater compassion for others—and the world needs more of that. So, Jam on Everyone – we can and will do better together! Below are some reflection questions to choose from to help you take a look at your 2025! Blessings and light to all.
Reflection on the Year
What were the defining moments of 2025 for you—big or small—and why did they matter?
What did you release or outgrow in 2025?
What are you most grateful for in 2025, and why?
Purpose & Work
What work or projects felt energizing? Which felt misaligned?
What new skills, insights, or strengths emerged?
Where did you feel “in your jam,” and where did you feel out of sync?
Personal Practices
What practices kept you grounded or connected this year?
What did you learn about your faith, intuition, or inner guidance?
