Happy New Year Everyone

For many, the new year marks the beginning of a journey towards self-improvement. They set New Year’s resolutions and diligently work towards executing their plans from the previous months. Others, however, approach the new year with a sense of familiarity, seeing little change in their lives. Regardless of their approach, the new year presents an opportunity for fresh starts and new beginnings.

As I reflect on the concept of time and our methods of measuring it, I find myself reflecting on the past year and the questions that still linger in my mind. This new year presents a chance to pause, reflect, and ask myself the same foundational questions that have been on my mind since 2024:

1. I’ve been focused on simplifying my life to prepare for meaningful work ahead, creating space for well-being, focus, and joy. In embracing quiet moments—through walks and reflection—I’ve discovered an unsettling truth: I wasn’t breathing properly, or sometimes at all. While breathing is an involuntary act, paying attention to my shallow and irregular habits has made me more mindful of this essential function. Now, I frequently ask myself, “Are you breathing?”—a simple yet transformative question. It’s not about perfect technique but the act itself, a practice I hope to explore further this year. So, let me ask you: “Are you breathing?” Take a moment and just breathe.

2. Lately, I’ve been simplifying my life to fully embrace what I consider the most important work of my lifetime. To stay present and engaged in this work, I’ve realized the need to be more intentional in all areas of my life, including something as simple as eating. While I nourish my body, I’ve noticed that I’m often not truly present for my meals. I’ve eaten, but I haven’t really savored the flavors or fully experienced the act of eating. Now, I’ve started asking myself, “Am I really eating?” This question reminds me to slow down, enjoy my food, and be mindful of the moment. As the year progresses, I plan to dive deeper into what I eat—how it’s sourced, prepared, and its impact on my well-being. So, let me ask you: “Are you eating?” Take a moment, be present, and truly enjoy your next meal.

3. Movement is a simple yet profound privilege we often overlook. As I simplify my life, I’ve become more mindful of how I move and how my body connects to the ground, the spaces, and the world around me. Working remotely, I’ve had to be intentional about not staying behind screens for too long. While I ditched computers for mobile devices years ago to avoid being desk-bound, I realized these devices can still be just as immobilizing if I’m not careful. Now, I strive to alternate deep work with mindful movement—whether it’s a focused sprint followed by a walk or simply pausing to reconnect with my surroundings. I’ve made it a habit to ask myself, “Are you moving?” This question reminds me to step away, engage in intentional activity, and avoid the trap of remaining stationary, no matter the setting. So, before diving into your next task or to-do list, pause and ask yourself: “Are you moving?” Then leave your device behind, take a walk, and reconnect with the world around you. Let’s move.

4. Rest and rejuvenation are essential for our well-being and productivity. Lately, I’ve been asking myself a simple yet vital question: “Are you sleeping?” I’ve learned that without proper rest, I can’t accomplish the work I’ve set out to do or maintain my health and energy. Like many, I once subscribed to the “no sleep” mindset, believing success required sacrificing rest. But through experience, I’ve realized that my best work—and my ability to find joy and peace—only happens when I’m well-rested. When I feel low energy, doubt, or negativity, the answer often lies in my lack of sleep. The solution? Rest. So, let me ask you: “Are you sleeping?” Before tackling the challenges of the day, let’s ensure we’re rested, rejuvenated, and ready to show up as our best selves. Rest is not a luxury—it’s essential.

5. Play is a fundamental part of life, an instinctual way we learn, grow, and explore the world. Yet, somewhere along the way, society placed an expiration date on playfulness. In truth, play remains just as vital in adulthood as it is in childhood. For me, play has always been a cornerstone of my life, from outdoor adventures as a child to embracing joy and curiosity in my daily experiences. Lately, I’ve been asking myself, “Are you playing?” Am I doing things simply for the joy of it, without any agenda? If something doesn’t spark a sense of playfulness, I’m learning to let it go. In a world full of complexities and challenges, perhaps what we all need is a bit more play. So, I ask you: Are you playing? If not, it’s time to make room for a little fun.

In short, 2025 will be a lot like 2024: Jameel will be taking excellent care of himself! Self-care is still for baddies!

Let’s breathe. Let’s eat. Let’s move. Let’s rest. Let’s play. Happy New Year, everyone! 🏁

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