Happy 2025!
A new year is the perfect time to pause and reflect—to consider where we’ve been and what’s ahead. Every January 1st, I open a special journal I’ve kept since 1997. In it, I record how I spent New Year’s, my accomplishments (big and small), my goals for the year ahead, and an intention word to guide me.
Looking back on 2024, it was filled with unforgettable moments, including two incredible travel experiences.
I began the year in Antarctica—the literal edge of the world. Surrounded by ice and silence, I felt awe at life’s vastness and the possibilities when we let ourselves explore. Then, this past summer, I celebrated my birthday under stunning Icelandic waterfalls. Arms outstretched, feeling the rush of water, I experienced the freedom of letting go and simply being present (though I was also slightly cold and soggy, but hey, worth it).
These moments, along with writing and publishing Unhide & Seek, made 2024 truly remarkable. Sharing the message of unhiding on podcasts, corporate stages, and media (including PIX11 (twice) and All Of It with Alison Stewart) allowed me to connect with many of you.
Of course, there were some rough bumps too—because life is rarely perfect—and those moments taught me just as much as the highlights did.
As I move into 2025, I’m carrying those lessons with me—being open to possibility, letting go of what holds me back, and making space for what matters. This year, I’m focusing my intentions on seeking and receiving—seeking joy, connection, and growth while welcoming the opportunities and freedom that come with embracing who I truly am.
What About You?
As we reflect on the lessons of the past year, we’re reminded that hiding isn’t always obvious—it can show up in small, surprising ways.
Hiding can sneak into our lives—staying silent when we want to speak, striving for perfection, or pretending everything’s fine when it’s not. While it might feel safe in the moment, hiding keeps us disconnected, exhausted, and holding ourselves back from joy, connection, and growth. Recognizing where we hide is the first step toward freedom.
In Unhide & Seek, I created an inventory to help uncover the ways we hide and reflect on how it holds us back. If you’re curious, explore it here: Hiding Inventory.
As you step into 2025, take a moment to reflect:
- What’s something you’re ready to let go of?
- What are you seeking this year—more joy, deeper connections, or simply space to breathe and recharge?
- How can you open yourself up to receive the opportunities, kindness, or self-acceptance waiting for you?
Let’s Unhide and Seek Together
This year, let’s stretch our arms wide—under waterfalls, through new adventures, or in everyday moments—and embrace the courage to unhide.
Ready to take the first step? What are you seeking this year, and what would it mean to stop hiding and step into what’s next? Hit reply—I’d love to hear from you.
Warmest, Ruth
Thank you for being part of the UNHIDING community.
