My experience with 2025 has been, let’s just say, interesting. From financial decisions to dealing with health situations and a career move, I can say that 2025 was full of challenges that I’m eager to take on and see what comes next. 2025 also taught me a few lessons and I’ll share with you what 2025 has taught me.

Don’t Lose Sight of the Goal

No matter what life throws at you, no matter how many times you fall off the boat, don’t lose sight of reaching the goal. You can obviously tell based on the name of this site that my goal is to reach early retirement by the way of financial independence. The journey can be quite boring, not glamorous, take longer than you anticipated, or actually set you back. Whether your portfolio isn’t performing well, had major expenses, health scares, career changes, or other situations, stay focused.

Don’t Be Scared To Take On Challenges

Challenges build perseverance which builds character and eventually hope. I absolutely believe in this. One of my work mentors never backed away from challenges. Even though it meant more work for him he came at it from an angle of half glass full, saw the positive benefits, and always faced the challenge head on. His reputation grew positively, became more networked in the industry, and opened up new opportunities.

I am an introvert so something like this doesn’t come naturally to me. Over the years I put myself out there, took on challenges, built my reputation and network, and new opportunities landed on my plate. I grew professionally and personally. I know change is scary but it is better than being stagnant.

Family Is More Important

Who can you rely on the most besides family? Friends, support groups, church are great but it’s not like your direct family. Family will be there with you through the lowest to the highest points. Keep your family close and safe because they are more important than you realize.

Money is just a tool

Financial goals should be a subset of your higher level goal. What does financial independence give you? Why are you pursuing financial independence? Those answers is what you ultimately want to achieve and the money is just a tool to get you there. Whether it’s to change careers, try something different, volunteer more, or spend more time on things you desire but can’t take the risk.

Don’t Fear Change

Change is often looked upon as scary. People like to be consistent and have their routines. Life is full of changes whether challenging or not. Change is inevitable so don’t fear it.

I’ve got some major changes coming in 2026 so I’m going to take all these things that 2025 has taught me and see how this coming year goes. The common theme what 2025 has taught me is reflection. How I respond to situations, challenges, and opportunities; how I respond to criticism; how I respond to feedback; and reflecting on empathy and compassion during all situations. If you are interested in following my journey, email subscribe here to get alerts of latest posts or follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.