Mental Health
Jan 6, 2025

Moving Forward: Embracing Growth and Resilience in the New Year

As we step into a new year, it's a time for renewal and reflection. This post explores the power of letting go of the past, reframing adversity as a teacher, and realigning life with what truly matters.

A New Year, A New Chapter Begins

January 1st isn’t just a calendar flip—it’s like hitting reset on life’s messy game. It’s a chance to take stock, set some fresh goals, and figure out what the hell really matters. If you’ve been through the wringer—whether that’s fighting cancer, dealing with big life changes, or just surviving another chaotic year—this day hits different. It’s a reminder that no matter how many curveballs life throws at us, we’re still here, and that’s something to be proud of.

Letting Go of What’s Holding You Down

The past can be a real pain in the ass,  Regret, guilt, and all that emotional baggage weigh you down, but guess what? You don’t have to carry that shit forever. Growth happens when you let go of the stuff that’s dragging you down. Acknowledge the lessons, own your story, and cut yourself some slack. Moving forward isn’t about pretending the past didn’t happen—it’s about using it to build something better.

Realigning with What Truly Matters

Sometimes it takes getting knocked on your ass to figure out what really matters. For me, it’s showing up for my daughter, staying present, and focusing on the things that actually count—family, health, and real connections. Maybe for you, it’s finding more time for yourself or finally chasing a dream you’ve put off. Whatever it is, this year, let’s cut through the bs and focus on what makes life worth it.

Small Wins Add Up

So you really don’t need some grand, life-changing resolution to make progress. Real growth happens in those tiny, everyday steps. Maybe it’s going for a quick walk, finally having that honest convo, or just taking five damn minutes to breathe. Small wins, done consistently, stack up into something big over time.

Reflect. Reset. Move Forward.

As we kick off the new year, take a minute to look back at how far you’ve come. Seriously, give yourself some credit—it’s easy to overlook progress when you’re in the thick of it, but it’s there. This year isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, keeping hope alive, and continuing to move forward, even when things get messy.

Let’s make 2025 the year of resilience, real growth, and maybe even some laughs along the way. We’re not just surviving—we’re writing our own damn stories.

So, what’s your story going to be?

— Joe

Joe F

Creator, Radiant 14

Personal Stories & Resources

The Radiant Blog

Learn more about my personal journey and insight into how we can shape the narrative surrounding Colorectal Cancer.