A Fresh Start: Protecting Your Peace and Embracing Change in 2025

A Fresh Start: Protecting Your Peace and Embracing Change in 2025

The New Year always feels like a fresh start, doesn’t it? There’s something invigorating about the clean slate it offers—the promise of new opportunities, the chance to shed old habits, and the excitement of setting fresh goals. Living in San Diego, I often find inspiration in the beautiful surroundings—a new year feels like standing on the shores of Carlsbad, ready to dive into fresh waters with renewed energy. It’s a time to reflect on where you’ve been and envision where you want to go, all while reconnecting with what truly matters. This past December, I decided to go entirely without social media—a bold move for someone living in our hyper-connected world. What started as an experiment turned into one of the most enlightening experiences of my life. Here’s what I learned and how I’m carrying those lessons into 2025.

Letting Go of What Doesn’t Serve You

December without social media taught me some hard truths. I realized how much time I had been spending comparing myself to others: their curated photos, their achievements, and yes, even their Amazon must-haves. Letting go of these comparisons felt like shedding a heavy weight I hadn’t even noticed I was carrying. It freed me to appreciate my own journey and celebrate the joy and progress in my life without the constant pressure to measure up to someone else’s highlight reel. The constant influx of “what you need to buy now” made me feel like I wasn’t enough. Spoiler alert: I didn’t need any of it. Instead, I embraced simplicity and focused on what I already had.

I found myself investing time where it mattered most—with family and friends. One of the highlights was taking my kids on special one-on-one dates to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. For any San Diego moms, these local gems are perfect for creating memorable experiences that combine fun and learning with quality time. These moments nurtured our relationships in ways no purchase ever could. We laughed, explored, learned more about each other and made memories that will last a lifetime.

Setting Boundaries with Social Media

Stepping away from social media also revealed how much it impacted my mood and mindset. As a busy San Diego mom juggling work, family, and everything in between, I noticed how the digital detox gave me space to appreciate the simple pleasures unique to our city—like sunsets over Moonlight Beach and weekend strolls through the farmers market. For example, I realized how much lighter I felt without the pressure to constantly stay updated or measure my life against others. I could finally focus on my own priorities and joys, which brought a sense of calm and clarity I hadn’t experienced in years. I learned the importance of setting boundaries—not just with apps but with anything that doesn’t make me feel good. Now, I approach social media mindfully, asking myself: Is this adding value to my life, or is it draining me?

Lessons from Mel Robbins’ "The Let Them Theory"

During my month-long digital detox, I read Mel Robbins’ book and fell in love with the "The Let Them Theory." It’s a simple but profound idea: let people do what they’re going to do. You can’t control anyone else, but you can control how you respond. This philosophy has become my mantra for 2025. Instead of expending energy trying to change others, I’m focusing on myself—my actions, my choices, my peace.

My "Revolution" for 2025

As one of my kiddos adorably called it, my New Year’s "revolution" is all about control—or rather, recognizing what I can and can’t control. I can’t control how others behave or what life throws at me, but I can control how I show up. This year, I’m committing to:

• Let them and let me: Let me put myself first. Prioritizing self-care and putting my needs first has helped me become a better mom, wife, and entrepreneur. Let me do what makes me happy, choose how others’ actions affect me, and decide how I will react. Let me continue to help other women regain control in their homes and lives so they can pursue what brings them joy.

• Progress, not perfection: Last year, my perfectionism held me back. This year, I’m letting go of the need to have everything perfect. Let people have their opinions, even if something isn’t flawless. Progress matters more.

Helping Others Do the Same

Through my work with Salt, Sand, and Sorted, I’m passionate about empowering North County San Diego moms and women everywhere to reclaim their time and energy by simplifying their lives. Whether it's organizing a playroom or clearing out kitchen chaos, the impact of decluttering goes far beyond the physical space—it creates room for what matters most. Decluttering isn’t just about organization—it’s about freedom.

Living Authentically

Life is too short to waste on things that don’t bring us joy, Marie Kondo had it right. This year, I’m choosing to live intentionally, focusing on what makes me happy and fulfilled.

2025: The Year of Choosing You

If we only get one life, why not make it one we love? Reflecting on how my December without social media helped me reconnect with my family, nurture one-on-one moments with my kids, and find peace in simplicity, I realize 2025 is the perfect year to embrace these lessons fully. It’s a time to get to know yourself better, live authentically, and let go of what doesn’t serve you. Whether it’s decluttering your home, setting boundaries, or trying something new, remember: change starts with you.

I can’t wait to hear what you’re hoping for in 2025. Let’s inspire each other, support each other, and make this year one of growth, peace, and purpose. Here’s to choosing how we live—and loving every moment of it!