EOY Wrap Up: Looking Ahead to 2025

Welcome to the weekly post! Glad to See Ya!

Let’s Dive In!

As someone who takes the New Year reset very seriously, the transition between December and January is a reflective and intentional period for me. I dedicate several days to this process, sharing insights with my inner circle, as I believe that reflecting on both the highs and the trials of the past year is crucial for stepping into the New Year with purpose and positivity. This annual ritual allows me to pause, assess, and embrace the lessons learned, setting a solid foundation for the year ahead. I invite you to join me in this journey of reflection and renewal. At the end of this post, you'll find a series of reflective questions designed for you, my dear readers, to ponder and use in your own New Year’s reset.

In 2024, I stopped doubting myself. While I may not be the most confident person ever—and I might never be, as it's an ever-evolving process—I have grown exponentially this year. I learned to prioritize my needs, embrace true discipline, and eliminate the unnecessary. I ended a relationship that wasn't fulfilling, left jobs that drained me physically and weren't financially supportive, and distanced myself from people who didn't meet my new standards. This year was all about grit and growth.

My Highlights and Accomplishments of the Year

January

I started the year with a bang and got two new, deeply meaningful tattoos. The first is dedicated to my dad and best friend, simply marked with "1959" to honor his birth year and all that he means to me. The second is a Hebrew tattoo that reads "Breathe," symbolizing my journey away from mental illness and panic attacks. This tattoo represents my triumph over anxiety attacks, a struggle that overshadowed my life for three long years. Over the past two years, I've transitioned from overwhelming anxiety to experiencing only the typical stresses of adulthood— a significant improvement that highlights my progress. This tattoo serves as a constant reminder that I am no longer a captive of my mind. Through my faith in God, I have truly learned to breathe again, embracing peace and freedom.

February

I hosted a delightful Galentine's Day celebration at my home, where I crafted a delicious twist on the classic French 75, aptly named "A French Kiss 75." It was a day brimming with love and friendship, dedicated to honoring the incredible women in my life. I focused on making my home a sanctuary, a welcoming space for everyone who steps through the door. I've intentionally curated an environment where people can come as they are, free from agendas or pressure to feel a certain way or be perfectly okay. My goal is to offer unconditional love to the best of my ability, creating a haven where the women in my life can simply be themselves. In a world that can be exhausting, it's important to have a space where you can feel safe and let your guard down.

March

Looking back, March marked the slow beginning of the end. Although I didn't realize it at the time and didn't dwell long on breaking up with my partner before finally doing so in April, the signs were there. I was feeling insecure and self-conscious about my body, despite having been told I had a mesmerizing figure my entire life. I stopped radiating happiness and became a shadow of myself. Financially, I was at my lowest point, struggling to make ends meet with two part-time jobs in Los Angeles, earning just $17.50 an hour. Even working 40 hours a week, I constantly found myself choosing between buying gas or groceries. March was such a blah month that I barely have any photos to look back on. I just remember feeling terrible about myself, with my partner exacerbating the situation—not because he was a bad person, but because he ultimately wasn't the right one for me.

This realization was a turning point. It prompted me to reflect on what truly mattered and what needed to change. As I embraced these difficult truths, I began to reclaim my sense of self and clarity emerged from the chaos. This period served as a catalyst for my personal growth and laid the groundwork for the positive changes that would unfold in the months to come. Letting go of a relationship that no longer served me was liberating, and with that weight lifted, I started focusing on my own happiness and future. This difficult chapter only made me more resilient, preparing me for new opportunities and a renewed sense of self-worth.

April

April was when everything came crashing down, yet in the most unexpectedly poetic way. It was both the best and worst month of my life. I ended the relationship with my long-term partner—the first person I ever imagined marrying. He was someone I had known since I was 10, grew to love at 20, and ultimately broke up with at 23. He inspired me to grow and strive to become the better half of a whole. Experiencing this breakup was the hardest thing I've ever faced. In the end, I loved and learned; while he was a wonderful person, he simply wasn't my person. Our love languages didn’t align, leaving an emotional deficit that made me feel malnourished. I decided to leave before I was reduced to nothing but skin and bones.

It finally clicked for me, on the cusp of our breakup, that "I don't want this for the rest of my life." I came to the profound realization that being loved by me is not only easy but a true honor. Everyone who has known my love has seen their lives improve tenfold. For someone not to cherish and love me as naturally as breathing showed me that true love should be effortless. If love needs to be forced or settled for, it’s not meant to be. This understanding marked the beginning of a new chapter, where I vowed to never settle for anything less than a love that flows freely and mutually thrives. It was a pivotal moment, cementing my self-worth and the kind of love I truly deserve.

September

September transformed my life even more profoundly than April. While April was necessary breaking, serving as an unanticipated but essential gut punch, it set the stage for my journey toward becoming my best self. It shattered me in ways that are difficult to express, yet it was crucial for my growth. In September, I interviewed for my first full-time corporate role at a talent management agency in Beverly Hills, and to my delight, I got the job! This opportunity allowed me to finally step into the version of myself I had been envisioning. Suddenly, I began to embody the woman I had on my vision board and realized that nothing should hold me back. Starting this new role surrounded me with inspiring, creative, and motivated individuals who strive to be their best selves. I found a job where I could express my "corporate siren" energy, wearing heels and a full face of makeup every day. It might just be the excitement of my first year in the corporate world, but I am genuinely happy and blessed, to say the least.

October

October was slow; nothing amazing happened except the excitement of getting used to my new job. Before moving into my new apartment in Hollywood to be closer to my job, I was driving four hours daily for work. Getting used to the early mornings and late nights was intense, leaving my house at 5:30 to get to work at 7 a.m. and not getting home until 6:30 p.m. Even with the commute and the drastic change from two physically demanding part-time jobs to a very sedentary full-time job, I was excited and filled with life. In my first month at this agency, I experienced a drastic shift in my mindset, the most beautiful blossoming. Everything that I wanted to be started falling into place. I have always wanted to work in my city and experience the hustle and bustle of the heart of LA. It’s one thing to be from here, but it’s another to work in Beverly Hills and drive down Coldwater Canyon every day. I was used to a very different side of LA growing up, the middle class scraping by, street food, and Spanglish, rich with culture and a side of dirt. I wasn’t used to the posh Sunset Blvd side of town, but I had always dreamed of it, and suddenly, I found myself in the middle of it all one month later.

Starting this new job really put into perspective the way that I was living before. I was working two part-time jobs, basically as a really hot janitor; scrubbing grout and toilets for the last two years, working full-time hours and finishing school. Most of my weeks included 14 work days from Saturday to Sunday, and my one day off a week was always a random Tuesday that I used to recover, cry, grocery shop, meal prep, cry some more, and then suddenly I found myself working in friken Beverly Hills. Unlike my peers at work, I don’t come from money, my parents aren’t paying my rent, and I didn’t go to an Ivy League, but somehow, someway, I ended up in the same place as them. I had a beautiful epiphany, realizing that I was blessed beyond measure to have made it this far, and this is considered the literal beginning of my career. I was happy, but more so, I felt security for once, and it was a new, refreshing feeling.

November

In November, I moved into my own apartment! It was the best month yet, and I can’t fully capture the overwhelming excitement here. I had endured the long commute for so long that it was taking a toll, not only on me but on my car as well. After replacing two tires and spending $800 on repairs, it became clear that I needed a change in my living situation for better balance. From my mental health journey, I've learned to be acutely aware of my needs and recognize when I am in balance versus feeling untethered. With this knowledge and a deep understanding of myself, I knew that living 40 miles from my job was not sustainable. You would be surprised—there are many people at my company with even longer commutes, but I simply couldn't be one of them. After many weeks of apartment searching with a dear friend, I finally decided to rent a studio on my own. While it was a bittersweet decision, it ranks among the top 3 decisions of 2024. Getting this apartment and living alone unlocked a new side of me. Everything just started to click. If you've ever lived with housemates, you know that while there are pros like financial support and companionship, there can be significant cons as well. Now, I can truly be myself—clean when I want, decorate how I wish, have guests over as often as I please. I'm beyond happy that I made this work!

November was also filled with spontaneous adventures. I went to see Wicked and enjoyed some impromptu concerts with a friend. I celebrated outings with a chosen family friend group, who gathered at my apartment before going out for dinner and drinks. I went clubbing several times with my cousin, truly experiencing my 20s in the city—something I had always dreamed about! One memorable night, under the revolving disco balls at The Edition, drink in hand, heels aching, mini dress shining, surrounded by friends, I shed a tear of joy and laughed until I nearly fell over.

December

December continued the theme of joy and gratitude, wrapping up the year on a high note. I settled into my new apartment and embraced the warmth of the holidays, creating memories with friends and family. This time, however, I felt more at peace and grounded, having created a space that felt truly mine. I spent time reflecting on the year's lessons, both the challenges and triumphs, which shaped my journey forward.

I also took the opportunity to give back, volunteering locally and spreading some holiday cheer, as gratitude for all the blessings I received. As the year closed, I embraced a sense of completion and anticipation for the new year, knowing I had laid a strong foundation for the future. This mindset fueled my plans for 2024, focusing on personal growth, maintaining balance, and nurturing the relationships that mean the most to me.

My Top 3 Favorite Memories

1. A Birthday Surprise Filled with Love

After breaking up with my long-term partner in March, I wasn't looking forward to my birthday for the first time. My plans had fallen apart, leaving me feeling a bit lost. However, my close friend and then-housemate, Emma, transformed my day in the most heartwarming way. While I was asleep, she decorated the house with birthday balloons and surprised me with flowers. When I woke up and saw the decorations, I was overwhelmed with emotion. Emma told me, "I wanted to do this for you, to show you how easy it is to love you, and you should always be celebrated." Her gesture reminded me of the love that surrounds me, even during challenging times.

2. Achieving My Corporate Dream and Moving Into My Studio

Landing my corporate job and moving into my studio apartment marked the beginning of my transformation into the woman I've envisioned on my vision board for the past four years. Having patiently and, at times, begrudgingly pursued my undergraduate degree across two universities and five years, I finally reached a point where I was employed full-time in a corporate role and living independently. It's truly a dream come true and a testament to perseverance and ambition.

3. Feeling Invincible at a Free Concert

Attending a free concert with a good friend was more than just a night of music; it was an experience that made me feel genuinely invincible. It brought to life the iconic scene from "The Perks of Being a Wallflower," where the characters drive through a tunnel, and Emma Watson joyfully puts her head out of the sunroof as their "tunnel song" plays, capturing a sense of freedom and infinite possibilities. In that moment, I was reminded of something vital—that I am just 23. I'm not defined by my big goals, dreams, or the constant pressure to have everything figured out and be an "adult." Instead, the evening was a quintessential 20-something moment, freeing me from the burden of future-focused thinking and grounding me in the present. It allowed me to relish the here and now, to be mindfully aware of the simplicity and beauty of the moment rather than being entangled in the complexities of future aspirations. This night taught me that being present-minded is a gift, offering a sense of peace and clarity that is often lost in the hustle toward the future. It's a memory I will always treasure, serving as a reminder of the joy found in the present.

Who Are the People Who Were the Biggest Part of My Year?

1. The Trauma Bond Group

The trauma bond group from one of my part-time jobs was an unexpected source of strength and joy this year. Special shout-outs to my dearest Sabrina, sassy Savanna, and steadfastly vivacious Margarito. Without this chosen family, I wouldn't have made it through the year. I'm incredibly grateful for every wine night, every 911 call, and every spontaneous city adventure we shared, arm in arm. Thank you for being my safety net when life felt like a freefall. I wouldn't want to navigate this chapter with anyone else.

2. Julianna: My Anchor in Unconditional Love

Jules has been my longest-standing best friend, and this year, she taught me the most about unconditional love, especially when I lost the greatest romantic love of my life. Thanks to her unwavering support, I continue to believe in the power of love. Her loyalty means the world to me. She knows me well enough to call me out when necessary, offer tough love when needed, remind me to be gentler when I'm too "blunt," and be tender with me when I'm in pieces. Over the last eight years, she's been the one to gather my shattered pieces, the comforting hug when I needed it, and the source of my greatest laughter and fondest memories. Our everlasting friendship is something I hope everyone experiences in their lifetime.

3. Emma and Crystal: My Previous Housemates

My final shoutout of the year goes to my former housemates, Emma and Crystal. Our time together at the Lemon House holds a special place in my heart. From the booming laughter echoing down the halls to the cozy movie nights in our living room, and all the gossip and heart-to-heart conversations about boys and life's challenges—we shared it all. Most importantly, I'm thankful for the comforting hugs after long, demanding 12-hour days and for being literal shoulders to cry on, no matter what. The safe and welcoming energy we created at the Lemon House for any girl in need is something I will carry with me to my new apartment and everywhere I call home in the future.

What Made Me Feel the Most Passionate This Year?

What ignited my passion this year was starting my new job at a talent management agency. For the first time since college, I found myself surrounded by creatives with dreams as expansive as mine. The beauty of LA lies in its endless possibilities—a city where anything can happen and no ambition is too grand. Starting this job and being surrounded by peers my age, all striving for substantial future plans, woke me up from a creative slumber. Previously, I was stuck in part-time jobs with colleagues who didn’t share the same drive and ambition I do. This new environment reignited my grit and determination to chase my career goals with renewed vigor.

What Made Me Feel the Most Accomplished?

This year, my discernment brought me the greatest sense of confidence and accomplishment. I think 2024 was the year I finally stopped doubting myself and just started taking action. I moved beyond anxiety, worry, and depression—though I still faced plenty of regular adult stress. However, I approached everything with much more discernment than in previous years. As I get older, I'm finding increased self-assuredness, but this year it was especially pronounced in my mental health. For someone who has grappled with trusting their own emotions during a challenging mental health journey, the feeling of self-assurance is truly incredible.

More Reflective Questions:

• What amplified my energy the most?

• What drained my energy the most?

• What is one action I kept doing that was keeping me stuck?

• What is the one reoccurring thing I kept telling myself that kept me stuck?

• What is the one thing I really needed in 2024 but was not able to give to myself consistently? Why? How can you in 2024 make it a priority

• 1 thing I am leaving in 2024 is…

• What were the lessons I’ve learned in 2024?

• My grand lesson of 2024 was

• What about 2024 was new for me?

• How did my life evolve in 2024

• What about 2024 am I most grateful for?

• How have my relationships evolved this year?

  • Reflect on any significant changes or deepening of connections with others.

• What new habits or routines have I developed?

  • Consider positive changes in your daily life.

• What am I most grateful for this year?

  • Take a moment to acknowledge the things you're thankful for.

• What is one thing I wish I had done differently, and why?

  • Reflect on any regrets or learning opportunities.

• In what ways have I invested in my personal growth?

  • Think about areas where you've deliberately worked on self-improvement.

• What are my dreams or aspirations for the coming year?

  • Envision where you hope to be by the end of next year.

That’s All For Now Folks!

As I reflect on my journey over the past year, I've come to realize that being a 20-something navigating the complexities of adulthood is a mix of triumphs, trials, and transformative moments. This year taught me the importance of being present, embracing every imperfect experience, and trusting my own discernment as I build towards my dreams. It's a journey of balancing ambition with the acknowledgment that it's okay to not have everything figured out just yet. The lessons I've learned have not only shaped who I am today but have also laid the foundation for the years ahead.

I invite you, my dear readers, to embark on your own New Year's reflection journey using the questions I've shared at the end of this post. Journaling and reflecting on the past year can unlock valuable insights, guiding you toward success in the year to come. It's a practice that has been crucial for my personal growth and one that I believe can be transformative for you as well.

As we step into the New Year, I encourage you to stay connected. Follow me on Instagram at @syd.grayce for more insights into my journey. Keep an eye out for my weekly Monday Morning blog posts, which go live at 8 a.m. PST, where I'll continue to share stories, lessons, and reflections. Also, exciting news—I have a podcast in the works, launching in 2025, where we'll dive even deeper into navigating life as a 20-something.

Thank you for being part of this community. Here's to a reflective end to this year and a bright, intentional start to the next. Let's make 2025 a year of growth, passion, and endless possibilities.

With love,