Dear Friends,
As the year wraps up in less than 24 hours, I find myself in review mode. There’s something profoundly satisfying about pausing to reflect on what was before resetting for what’s to come. I’m inviting you into my reflections this time because, well, why not? Life is richer when shared.
Let’s talk New Year resolutions. I hear it all the time— “I don’t believe in New Year resolutions.” I say that too. But here’s the thing: I've had a revelation as I reflect on why they don’t work for most people. It’s not the resolutions that fail—it’s us. We don’t work.
Think about it. When we make a New Year resolution, we’re essentially making a commitment to ourselves. Yet, how often do we break that commitment? How often do we shrug off the promises we make to ourselves, treating them as if they’re optional? Why is that?
Why do we not set personal standards that are unbreakable? And what does it say about our self-worth when we’re okay with breaking promises to ourselves?
I’d love to hear your thoughts, but here’s mine: I've shifted my focus instead of setting myself up for failure with lofty resolutions. In 2024, I gave myself a word to live by. A single word to anchor my actions, intentions, and aspirations.
That word was “Recovery.”
The Power of a Single Word
I chose “Recovery” with the pandemic in mind. By 2022, the world was still reeling from its aftermath. Businesses closed permanently, families—including mine—felt the pinch, and we were all trying to recover, in every sense of the word.
I didn’t realize how deeply this word would weave itself into my life. I thought I was being selfless and noble when I chose it. “The world needs recovery,” I told myself. I didn’t anticipate how the universe would use that word to shape my personal journey, aligning it with a promise I made to myself a decade ago.
A Promise Fulfilled
Ten years ago, I was lying on a surgery table, a cancer patient making a silent vow: to dedicate my life in service to others if I got a second chance at life. At the time, I had no idea what that would look like. Fast-forward to 2024, and that promise blossomed into a labor of love—a book called Cancer Heroes.
This anthology of healing, survival, and transformation isn’t just a book; it is a beacon of hope. The stories resonated with readers, offering them the possibility of their own recovery. To my delight and amazement, the book became a bestseller, won awards, and touched lives far beyond what I had imagined.
I thank my publisher, the incredible contributing authors, and everyone who supported this journey. You know who you are, and I am endlessly grateful.
Recovery in Action
As I worked on the book, I saw it as a stepping stone, not the destination. One step led to another, and the path unfolded in ways I couldn’t have planned. Along the way, I met extraordinary people who shared and amplified my vision.
On November 27th, I launched National Cancer Hero Day, an awe-inspiring fundraising event. The highlight? A Fashion Show called Beauty Beyond Cancer, where six remarkable women—some survivors, some currently battling cancer—graced the runway with resilience and grace.
What a moment that was. And just when I thought it couldn’t get better, the universe whispered, “Hold my coffee.” Stay tuned, my friends, because there’s a big announcement coming soon about the next chapter of this journey.
The Word That Creates Your World
Reflecting on 2024, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. The word “Recovery” shaped my year in ways I never anticipated. They say your word creates your world, and I’m living proof. It brought connections, collaborations, and a community that aligns perfectly with my vision.
Together, we’ve begun building something extraordinary - standing for the possibility of recovery while raising funds to find a cure for cancer in our lifetime.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Now, as I stand on the threshold of 2025, two thoughts fill my mind:
What will my word for 2025 be?
How can I continue serving you, my beloved community?
To honor the spirit of recovery and celebrate this incredible year, I’m giving away my 6-Week Be Your Own North Star Program (valued at $1099) to the first 10 people who comment below with their word for 2025.
Yes, you read that right. Your word can shape your year. So what will it be?
Parting Thoughts
As we bid farewell to 2024, I invite you to join me in this tradition of choosing a word. Forget resolutions that fall by the wayside—choose a word that resonates with your heart and soul. Let it be a guiding light, a compass pointing you toward the life you want to create.
Here’s to recovery, resilience, and the magic of a new year. Thank you for walking this journey with me. Your love, support, and encouragement fuel my mission.
Now, over to you: What’s your word for 2025?
With love, laughter, and a whole lot of gratitude,
Shirin
PS: To the first 10 commenters, I can’t wait to welcome you into the program. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember.
コメント