Best Of

My goal for this year had to be rescheduled for this year for a number of reasons, but the silver lining is that I will be in a much better position to accomplish my goal by waiting.

So I set a new goal of losing enough weight to go skydiving next month. So far I am right on track with it!

My personal goal for 2025 is to be more present with myself, others, and the moment. I realized that I was wasting hours each day on my phone, causing me to disconnect / semi-dissociate from my inner self, my local community, and the natural world around me.

So far, I have deleted my social media and purchased a 'dumb phone' (flip phone) to take with me places. The dumb phone allows me to resist the urge to pick up my phone in moments of boredom or discomfort, and also forces me to trust myself more (actually learn the routes I take each day rather than relying on maps, etc). I have had some truly awesome conversations that I wouldn't have had otherwise, especially when sitting in restaurants with friends. Don't worry, I still have my smartphone for 'emergencies.' :P

I have gotten back hours of time each day, allowing me to pick up new hobbies, join community groups, and venture out into the world more. I started reading physical books again, which is now one of my favorite past-times. As someone who didn't enjoy reading growing up, that's saying something!

I've still got plenty of work to do on being more present, but the progress so far has felt meaningful.

PS, my secondary goal is to read 100 book this year. 61 down, 39 to go. Feel free to add me on The Storygraph if you want to see what I'm reading.

Have a great day!

Emma Gardner | IT Project Coordinator

Vermont, USA

This year, I’ve been focusing on being more present and mindful in everything I do, whether it’s watching TV, walking, working, or updating Smartsheets. I regularly check in with myself to notice how I’m feeling and what I’m experiencing. If I get distracted or frustrated, I pause. If I’ve been deep in a task too long, I take a quick walk. Even on a walk, I’ll check if I’m really present; do I hear the birds in the trees?

It’s not about changing everything I do, but about staying aware and grounded in the moment. But journaling or taking notes helps me spot patterns, like realizing I’m more productive with tea than coffee! That awareness only came from paying attention and writing things down when something stood out.

It’s a small step to shift my awareness, but it’s made a big difference in helping me stay present, notice what works for me and what doesn't, and it helps me move through my day with more clarity and intention.