Every year, I sit down and craft a list of things I want to achieve. Some are fresh goals, others are “frequent flyers” that make a return appearance. But if 2025 taught me anything, it’s that a goal list isn’t a contract—it’s a compass. You have to be willing to bend when life throws a curveball.
Here’s how my year actually shook out!
🏃♀️ Get Moving: The Big Wins & The “Next Years”
The Running: This was my standout success! I blew my 1,000km goal out of the water, closing the year with roughly 1,250km. November was a particular highlight, clocking 174km—my biggest month in over two years!
The Hiking & Events: It wasn’t all smooth trails. My 10km Gold Rush run was cancelled, and the Grampians bushfires kept the Chimney Pots closed for repairs. As for Mt Macedon and Werribee Gorge? Well… they’re officially moving to the 2026 list. (Who knows how many times a charm, right?)
The Gym: No PBs this year, thanks to a few nagging injuries and some quality time with my physio. Instead of ego-lifting, I pivoted to “smart-lifting”—focusing on form and strength at lighter weights. It’s a slow burn, but it’s working.
📚 Feed Your Mind: A Balanced Diet
I managed to beat my goal of 40 books by finishing 42! The most satisfying part? My “10-10-10” goal for different formats turned into a perfectly symmetrical 14-14-14 split between Audio, Ebook, and Physical books.
- The Slump Buster: After a string of duds, Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune saved my reading soul.
- The Screen: I finally, finally finished Angel! I also loved Slow Horses and This is Us. Currently finishing Dying for Sex—stay tuned for what’s next on the watchlist.
📸 Create & Capture: The “Miserable Fails”
Let’s be real: the photobook goal was a disaster. My computer died, and while I recovered most things, I did lose some photos. It was a heartbreaking reminder of why backups and physical books matter. Note to self for 2026: Work on a photobook at least once a month. No excuses!
In the kitchen, I tried some new recipes, but Mum’s flan and those wontons remain unconquered. They’re going back on the list!
🧘 Find Your Zen: New Kicks & Quiet Moments
While Tom and I didn’t make it out camping, we did have some wonderful “us” adventures sans kids. I also treated my feet to some fresh Adidas kicks and new Columbia hiking boots that honestly feel like catching up with an old friend.
On the home front, the Egg Picnic artwork is finally up on the walls, and the slow process of framing family memories continues.
✨ The 2025 Verdict
This year had its share of wins and a few “duds,” but overall? Success. I’m fitter, I’m well-read, and I’ve learned to appreciate the progress, even when it’s slow.
2025, you were a full one. 2026, I’m ready for you (and I’m coming for those wontons!).