Taking A Slower Pace For A Stronger Finish

Resetting, reflecting, & recharging. I’m taking stock of the year and planning for the next, one step at a time.

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Hello you!

How are you doing?!

Yes, I’m writing to you earlier than usual and I even sound excited.

That’s because week 11 has been a dream for me. It wasn’t perfect, but it was close.

This week was a quieter, more reflective chapter and I needed it. After weeks of hustling through responsibilities, meetings, and deadlines, I finally took a step back, slowed down, and allowed myself the space to reset.

This week was all about self-care, reflection, and intentional planning. I indulged in journaling sessions, letting my thoughts flow freely as I reviewed how this year has unfolded.

Wait a minute!

Do you journal?

I started journaling this year, although not religiously. It’s incredible how much clarity writing brings when you let your pen—or keyboard—guide you. As 2025 approaches, I’ve started visualising how I want next year to be. I’m drawing up a plan that will give me a singular focus for next year, a plan that anchors my goals and helps me move with purpose.

It’s easy to get carried away with life’s events when you don’t have a plan for your life. I have been planning this way for a couple of years now and I can say that, although everything is not going according to my plans, I am still on the path that leads to the future I want for myself and my family.

As I mentioned earlier, I had a slow week.

Despite how life forces us to move at a relentless pace, slowing down is just as important as speeding up.

And this week, I did just that.

I focused on myself.

I took some time to really breathe, listen to myself, and take stock of my life and career journey. The taking stock part was majorly thanks to journaling. It helped me to connect deeply with my thoughts and intentions. I reflected on how much I’ve grown; not just through my commitment to write and walk daily, but also through my consistency.

On the writing front, I’m still going strong.

I’ve kept up with my daily writing habit; experimenting with styles, exploring ideas, and finding joy in the creative process. After researching writing courses as I mentioned in last week’s letter, I’ve picked two courses that I plan to take before the year ends. But first, I’m focused on completing this challenge, fully and intentionally.

On the other hand, walking continues to be my grounding ritual.

The walking part of my challenge has taught me just how small, consistent actions can create momentum. Some days are easier than others, but the routine itself has strengthened me to think more of my capabilities.

So, how am I planning for 2025?

I’ve always loved going into a new year with a clear sense of direction, and this year’s challenges have reinforced how important that is. Taking my life and career more seriously this year has prepared me to approach next year with intention and purpose. Through this week of reflection, I believe that I have given myself a head start, helping me clarify what truly matters and where I want to focus my energy.

So, my message to you this week is simply to give yourself permission to slow down when you need to. Reflect, recharge, realign with your goals and then get back to the grind. Life is not about moving at full speed all the time; it is already too fast and too difficult. You should try to pace yourself for the long run.

As Week 11 comes to an end,

I’m feeling grounded and ready to close out this challenge strong. There’s something empowering about taking control of your journey, one deliberate step at a time. I hope you get to feel this way soon and often in the future. I would love that for you.

Remember that:

"The only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time."

- Creighton Abrams

P/s: I’m still working on my plans for the new year so if you would love to collaborate with me on a project or you have some ideas or people in your network you think would be a good fit for me, do shoot me an email. I’m open to more adventures and challenges for next year.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me.

Until next week’s letter, have an amazing week!

Love,

Rae.