Happy New Year, friends!

Here we are, at the beginning of a shiny, fresh new year. If you’re anything like me, you’ve already been bombarded with recaps of 2024—the good, the bad, and the downright bizarre. And while it’s easy to get caught up in the challenges (because, let’s face it, they were definitely there), I’m taking a different route this year.

Let’s focus on the good. Yes, the good things that happened in 2024. Because while the struggles are real, so are the wins. And celebrating those wins—no matter how big or small—is what keeps us hopeful, grounded, and motivated to tackle whatever comes next.

The Good News of 2024

1. Global Cooperation Shone Bright From environmental initiatives to medical breakthroughs, 2024 reminded us that when the world works together, amazing things happen. Major strides were made in renewable energy, with global leaders committing to aggressive climate goals and communities rallying to embrace greener living.
2. Medical Breakthroughs Gave Us Hope Science was the MVP in 2024, with advancements in treatments for chronic illnesses, mental health, and rare diseases. Researchers even made progress in Alzheimer’s and cancer therapies that could change countless lives.
3. Small Wins Made Big Impacts Closer to home, people showed up for each other in incredible ways. Communities rebuilt after disasters, neighbors helped neighbors, and acts of kindness went viral—reminding us that good news isn’t always about headlines; sometimes, it’s about heartlines.
4. Creativity and Innovation Thrived From groundbreaking art to game-changing technology, 2024 was a year where creativity flourished. People found new ways to express themselves, connect, and solve problems. AI tools, anyone? (Though, let’s agree not to let it take over everything, okay?)
5. Personal Wins Count Too Maybe you landed a new job, started a hobby, or reconnected with an old friend. Maybe you just made it through the year. Whatever your personal wins were, they matter.

Why Focus on the Good?

Sure, acknowledging challenges is important. But dwelling on negativity? That’s a one-way ticket to Stressville, population: you. Shifting your focus to the positive doesn’t mean ignoring the hard stuff; it means finding the balance that keeps you moving forward.

Here’s why focusing on the good matters:

1. Gratitude Breeds Positivity When you actively look for the good, you start noticing more of it. Gratitude shifts your mindset, and a positive outlook makes everything feel just a little bit lighter.
2. Good News Inspires Action Seeing progress—big or small—reminds us that change is possible. Whether it’s joining a local initiative or simply spreading kindness, good news motivates us to keep going.
3. Optimism is Contagious When you focus on the positive, you inspire those around you to do the same. It’s like a ripple effect of hope. And let’s be honest, we could all use more hope.

Your Challenge for 2025

Here’s a little homework for you as we start the new year (don’t worry, it’s the fun kind). Take a moment to reflect on the good things that happened in your life last year. Write them down. Share them with a friend. Celebrate them.

Then, keep looking for the good in 2025. Because the truth is, life will always have its ups and downs. But when we choose to focus on the good, we’re choosing hope, resilience, and joy. And that’s the kind of energy I’m bringing into this new year.

Here’s to more good news, big wins, and little moments that make life brighter. Cheers to 2025!

XX,

MG

*interior design by @marianlouisedesign