As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the lessons we’ve learned, the values we hold dear, and the traditions we choose to embrace. In this special holiday edition of The Coffee Journeys Show, I share my personal reflections on a year that brought both joy and challenges, and I invite you to join me in exploring what the holiday season truly means to us.
🌍 Travel as the University of Life
This year, one of my biggest goals was to travel with my family—and I’m so grateful that I made it happen. We visited beautiful places, met incredible people, and, most importantly, I was able to show the world to my kids.
For me, travel is the best university of life. It teaches resilience, empathy, and the ability to see the world from different perspectives. Watching my kids experience these lessons firsthand reminded me why I prioritize travel. It’s not just about seeing new places—it’s about the growth and understanding that come with stepping out of your comfort zone.
💔 A Year of Reflection and Loss
But 2024 also brought unexpected moments. Earlier in the year, I had to travel to Poland on very short notice. This wasn’t for pleasure—it was to say goodbye to someone close to me and accompany them on their final journey.
This difficult experience forced me to confront deeper questions about life, legacy, and the values we choose to uphold. It was a reminder that life is fragile, and the time we have with loved ones is precious.
♻️ Revisiting and Revising Our Values
At the end of the year, I like to take a step back and reflect on my values. Life changes us—our environment, experiences, and relationships shape who we are. Over time, our values might shift, and it’s important to check in with ourselves to ensure we’re living in alignment with what matters most.
For me, the highest value right now is family. Everything I do revolves around them, and they’re my guiding light in every decision I make.
What about you? Have your values shifted this year? Have you taken the time to reflect on what truly matters to you?
📜 Questioning the Status Quo
One of the most liberating lessons I’ve learned is the power of questioning everything. From traditions to habits to the people we surround ourselves with—nothing should be off-limits for reflection.
If something is truly important, it will withstand questioning and become even more meaningful. If not, it’s okay to let it go. This practice of making conscious decisions about how I live my life has been transformative.
🎄 Christmas Traditions: Old and New
As someone who grew up in Poland and now lives in England, I’ve had the opportunity to experience a mix of holiday traditions. And I’ve realized that I don’t have to follow every tradition just because it’s expected.
This year, we decorated our Christmas tree at the beginning of December and started celebrating a week before Christmas Eve. It felt right for us as a family, and that’s what matters most.
What about you? Are there traditions you’ve let go of or new ones you’ve embraced?
💞 Wishing You a Joyful Holiday Season
As we close out 2024, I want to leave you with a simple thought: Take some time this holiday season to reflect on your values, your habits, and the traditions you follow. Ask yourself:
- What I am optimising for?
- What truly brings me joy?
- What do I want to keep?
- What do I want to change?
You might find that everything is perfect just as it is. Or you might decide it’s time to try something new. Either way, the important thing is to make those choices consciously.
I hope you have a joyful, peaceful, and blessed holiday season. May you find happiness not just during this time, but in every day of the year ahead.
Merry Christmas, everyone! 🎅✨
Lessons Learned from This Coffee Journey
- Life’s fragility reminds us to cherish time with loved ones.
- Revisiting your values can lead to greater alignment with what matters most.
- Questioning traditions can help you create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.
- The holiday season is a time for reflection, growth, and intentional living.
Similar links
- Why coffee should be important in your relationship?
- Invest in Memories, They Pay Dividends in Happiness
- Uncovering Your Purpose: The Power of Self-Awareness and Close Connections
Thanks for reading!
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