As the New Year approaches, thoughts of fresh starts and goal-setting swirl. This year, I’m embracing the journey of rediscovery—literally. It all began when I purchased a $500 Best Buy voucher for a new laptop. Initially, I wasn’t sure what to spend it on, but an electric mountain bike caught my eye as I scrolled through their website. Suddenly, memories of my college days, biking everywhere with nothing but a cheap two-wheeler, came rushing back.
During that time, I saved every penny from my paycheck to buy a beautiful purple mountain bike on layaway. It wasn’t just a bike but freedom, adventure, and empowerment. That bike took me on journeys in the city and the mountains, including one unforgettable ride down a summer ski slope (where I may have learned the hard way about using the correct brakes), and flew over my bike handles. Decades later, I relived that thrill, clicking “purchase” on an e-bike and setting a goal: ride 50 miles by the end of 2025.
Rediscovering Passion
Riding my bike has brought back a joy I hadn’t realized I’d lost. Each weekend, my family and I gear up and hit the trails. Our latest ride took us 20 miles from Monrovia to the Azusa Canyons, where I discovered a serene river I’d never noticed. These rides remind us that life is filled with moments of awe and wonder when we try to explore.
Rediscovering passion often starts with revisiting something you loved but put aside. For me, it was cycling. For you, it could be painting, playing music, or baking. Start by asking yourself these questions:
- What activity used to bring me joy, but I haven’t done in years?
- What new adventure have I always wanted to try?
- Who can I share this experience with?
Setting Realistic Goals for the New Year
Goal-setting is powerful, but it works best when goals are clear and achievable. My 50-mile biking goal is both challenging and realistic for my current lifestyle. Whether your goal is personal or professional, follow these steps to make it stick:
- Start Small: Break your goal into bite-sized steps. My first goal was to ride 10 miles before aiming for 20 and eventually 50.
- Be Specific: Instead of “exercise more,” try “go for a 20-minute walk three times a week.”
- Celebrate Milestones: Every time I reach a new distance, I celebrate with my family—it keeps me motivated.
Find Your Tribe
None of this would be possible without the support of my family. They ride alongside me (on their super-fast carbon bikes) and cheer me on as I build endurance. A support system makes all the difference, whether it’s family, friends, or a like-minded community.
If you’re venturing into something new, find your tribe—people who will cheer for you, support you, and maybe even join you. It might be a cycling group, a book club, or an online community aligned with your goals.
Make 2025 Your Year of Rediscovery
Biking has given me a newfound sense of joy, adventure, and connection. Whether it’s the fresh air, the thrill of discovering hidden gems like that riverside trail, or the simple pleasure of moving my body, it’s been the best dopamine rush I’ve had in years.
As you step into 2025, rediscover what fuels your happiness. Set goals that excite you lean on your tribe for support and create space for what truly matters. Life is a journey—so why not enjoy the ride?
What’s one passion or goal you’re rediscovering this year? I’d love to hear about it
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Hi, I’m Stacey!
As a SheRise Catalyst and Career Coach, I empower high-achieving career women to secure their dream roles, elevate their confidence, and create meaningful balance in their personal and professional lives.
If you’re ready to step into your dream life, let’s connect!