Being Ready
A Year of Stillness, Possibility, and Joy.
I love the feeling of a new year. There’s something magical about turning a page, stepping into January, and remembering that all things are possible again. It’s a reset button, a fresh canvas, and a reminder that I get to decide how my story unfolds.
This year feels especially meaningful because I’ve already completed my 26 for 26 list and created my 2026 vision board—two rituals that help me set intention and direction. With those in place, I feel grounded, prepared, and genuinely excited for what’s ahead.
Ready for 2026.
If I had to choose a theme for 2026, it would be stillness—not inaction, but a deeper calm. I want this to be a year of setting boundaries that protect my peace, my time, and my energy. I’m intentionally carving out space for reflection, balance, and thoughtful accomplishment, rather than letting life rush by in a blur. I want to be present enough to notice the small things and brave enough to seize moments when opportunities appear.
As part of this shift, I’m spending more time reading, reflecting, and determining how I want to move through the year. Years ago, I read Atomic Habits by James Clear, and this year I’m working through the Atomic Habits Workbook. Its focus on becoming just 1% better each day—through small, consistent behaviors—feels especially powerful. That mindset can be challenging when you’re someone who sets big goals, but it’s also grounding, reminding me that meaningful change happens gradually, not all at once.
January always sets the tone for the year, and for me it begins with my birthday—a built-in celebration that feels like the perfect kickoff. And even though I’m embracing stillness, my calendar already holds plenty of bright, joyful moments to look forward to.
January is the perfect month to set the tone for your New Year.
Music festivals are booked, concerts are on the horizon, and I’ve secured season tickets for baseball games—because nothing beats the rhythm of a ballpark in summer. Plays are scheduled, and later in the year there’s a fall wedding for two of my favorite people, an event that already fills me with warmth. Friends and family are planning visits, and I’m intentionally making room for connection, adventure, and shared memories.
One of the highlights I’m especially anticipating is a trip to Central America with my brother to visit our uncle. Travel always resets my perspective, and exploring a new place with family makes it even more meaningful. And while it’s still just a thought, I’m seriously contemplating spending Christmas 2026 in Japan—a dream that feels equal parts exciting and magical.
What I want most is a year that offers both things to look forward to and the openness to welcome surprises. Structure and spontaneity can coexist, and 2026 feels like the perfect year to let both guide me.
And then there’s one of the goals I’m most excited about: learning to play piano and guitar. Music has always been part of my life from the outside looking in, but this year I want to participate—to create, explore, and maybe even stumble through my first chords with a smile.
One of my goals in 2026 is to learn how to play piano.
So here’s to 2026: a year of stillness and satisfaction, of curiosity and courage, of plans and surprises. A year where I grow, learn, stretch, celebrate, and stay open to whatever beautiful moments decide to unfold.
🎵 Songs of the Week 🎵
What I am listening to this week:
The Wood Brothers — Postcards From Hell
Zach Bryan — Plastic Cigarettes
Joel Adam Russell — Borrowed Time
The Offspring — The Kids Aren’t Alright
Joe Jackson — Steppin’ Out
💿 Being’s Blog Playlist 💿