Over the last few weeks I’ve heard from many that they cannot wait to have 2025 draw to a close. Chatting to friends, there have been too many losses, changes and just a general feeling of hard work. I found this really interesting and paused to reflect on my 2025.
I’m not sure I can say it’s been my favourite year and I’m not sure I 100% achieved all of the 5 things I wanted to start in 2025.
My 2025 Plans
My morning routine is still in play – journalling daily. I’m mostly setting small daily tasks trying to boost dopamine. I’ve been walking with a friend in the evening although not as often as I would like. Lifting weights – I bought my weighed vest (I think it needs to see the light of day more often in 2026) and have been regularly doing strength training – I even had a complement about how toned my legs were so maybe its making a difference. As for breathing – it’s a natural part of life – but I fully intended to give meditation and breath work a go….it hasn’t happened, it’s probably not for me.
Things to Celebrate
In general in 2025 I’ve just got on with it, it doesn’t feel ground breaking, I hadn’t set any major life goals but as I reflect there actually has been a lot to celebrate.
The Trips
I made it to Bali, it’s been on my to-visit list for years. It was so lovely to spend a bit of time with my sister on her journey to her new Australian life, albeit marred by some food poisoning. Then there was Copenhagen – it feels like my second home having spent a lot of time there for work and amazing to catch up with old friends. I wish I could visit more often. Italy – a familiar visit to a favourite haunt including a dip in a thermal spa. Then a late summer trip to a new town with friends – Bergamo was just a delight. Mojacar in November was the treat we all needed, firmly out of tourist season, it felt like we had the hilltop to ourselves as we celebrated a friend on her 50th.
The Firsts
World Menopause and Cancer Awareness Day – 18th September.
I’m so proud to have played a part in this inaugural event. I couldn’t have predicted the immense support. Despite knowing there are many many women experiencing menopause after cancer who are largely unsupported, I didn’t imagine the reaction. Bravely, I shared my own experience on the world stage. I am far from a public speaker but it felt empowering and confidence boosting. An amazing event and one that will continue.
I also had a few other firsts – speaking to businesses about menopause and cancer and how they can support employees who are experiencing this.
And I also achieved a personal goal and launched the first ever Menopause and Cancer Community Support Session
The Celebrations
This year I’ve had 3 weddings – a surprising amount for someone who is nearing 50! It’s been so lovely to celebrate wonderful, special moments with 3 different groups of friends. It’s a treat to get dressed up in a party frock, to be able to spend time with lots of friends all in one place and also dance the night away. Really grateful to have been part of these special celebrations.
Aside from the big things, like weddings, birthdays and me making it to 2 years cancer free, I’ve also tried to celebrate some of my smaller wins this year in a bit to boost confidence.
The Achievements
Movement is medicine in my world and that’s one thing I managed to keep doing in 2025. From Boost30 in June which meant I was moving my body every day for 30 days – swimming, walking, running, weights, to dabbling in Pilates at the start of the year – if only it wasn’t so expensive.
And the biggest achievement of all was walking 50km in aid of Menopause and Cancer. It took 12 hours and it was probably one of my favourite days.
And then there are the ongoing acheivements – writing a blog each week for Midlife Interrupted – hopefully sharing some useful insights from my own personal experience. And posting weekly, including reels, on Instagram. I think I need to up my filming and video editng skills. The question now is what is next for Midlife Interrupted in 2026 and beyond.
The Self Care
This has been by biggest and most constant focus this year. I’ve taken time to manage stress – through journalling, exercise, knitting – to name a few. I can’t say its been easy and that overthinking hasn’t hit on more than one occasion, but I remain keen to continue to do things that bring me calm and joy.
As part of my quest, I indulged in (I should say enjoyed) a few treats like saunas and float spas.
And most importantly I’ve made time for friends and family – this is one of the benefits in changing how I work, being able to choose how I manage my time and working week. Work life balance has been more life and less work this year, which has been so good.
As 2025 is drawing to a close, I’m thinking about what I want in 2026. I may even set a few longer term goals. Watch this space!
Happy end of 2025 everyone.
