As we jump into the new year, one of my main goals is to learn how to work hard while being relaxed. It might just be my dramaticness, but sometimes just working on an assignment can feel like the end of the world. So many nights have been characterized by freaking out while making sure everything I wrote was absolutely perfect. I’m trying to leave that in 2025. 

One way I will do that is by realizing that my worth is not tied to my output. Our worth comes from our ability to spread light and give love back to those who love us, not any number or project. Our worth comes from the laughs we create, the lives we change, and people we bring together. A life spent helping others and making happy memories is infinitely more valuable than a life spent working for nothing but money (even if money is invaluable). So, the next time you get caught up in the rush of doing ten million things, remember that. If we spend our time on the stuff that actually matters instead of chasing numbers, we will hopefully be more relaxed. I know I will keep reminding myself of this in the new year. 

2026 is also going to be a very big (and busy) year for me. It starts with midterms and ends with my first (and potentially last, we shall see) round of college decisions. I don’t know about you, but I find that very overwhelming. However, the best things in life often overwhelm us at first; it’s our mind’s way of making sure we’re ready to level up. I may not be ready yet, but when the time comes to apply, I know I will be. You will be ready for whatever comes your way this year too whether you think you are or not. Whenever you feel overwhelmed, remember that. Remember that nothing comes to you before you’re ready for it, and the best way to learn is to dive in head first. 

New years always bring something new, so be open to it. I have changed so much since the beginning of this year because I allowed myself to. Allow yourself to grow, change, try, and fail. No one’s story is ever over, so be open to any plot twists that come your way. 

Thank you all for reading my blog for the past few months. I hope you’ve learned something from it. I wish you all the best for 2026. 

See you next year, 

Ella Greene