2025 in Review
I wanted to jot down a few reflections on 2025 and what I’m looking forward to in 2026.
As far as I’m concerned, 2025 can get in the bin. It’s been the worst year of my life.
Between the financial losses related to the closure of USAID, the closing of Glean Asia, searching for a job, moving houses, our kids moving schools, the death of my mom, and starting the new job. It was a lot.
All of that led to this being, without question, the most difficult year of my life. By far. And I am ready for a new year.
A Year of Survival
New Year’s usually prompts reflection for a lot of us, but I don’t think I’m in a place for deep philosophical takes this year. The last four months, especially, have felt like survival mode. That’s really all I’ve been doing.
Right now, though, I feel like I’m finally in a place where I’m just looking for more peace in my life. Peace feels like the right word, and it’s probably the main theme I’m carrying into 2026.
A Bright Spot in a Hard Year
The one clear light in 2025 was the birth of our fourth child, Aida. She has been nothing but joy and peace for our family.
When I think about how bad the year has been overall, she’s been this constant source of happiness in our lives. Something grounding. Something I’m deeply thankful for.
What I’m Hoping for in 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, peace is what I’m hoping to hold onto.
I’m looking forward to becoming more comfortable in my new role as a professor. I’m looking forward to having more time with my family than I’ve had in the last ten years. I’m already getting a glimpse of that over the Christmas break, and the idea of summer breaks feels meaningful in a way it never has before.
I’m also looking forward to the possibility of traveling more and getting back to simpler things.
I’ve been thinking a lot about what actually makes me happy, especially things I can do with my kids. I’ve always enjoyed camping and being outdoors, so I’m trying to figure out ways to get outside more often together in 2026.
Simplifying
A big part of this next year is about simplifying.
I’ve been running a business for the last decade, with lots of things constantly happening. Now, I want to focus on working, being a better parent, being a better partner and spouse, and putting real effort into those parts of my life.
My family deserves that from me.
One Step at a Time
I’m very thankful for my family and for what I’ve been blessed with.
As I look ahead to 2026, I’m not chasing big milestones or grand goals. I’m looking forward to achieving simple, everyday things...one step at a time.