January felt like a trial version of the year, no refunds, no extensions, just deadlines and self-imposed expectations.
Some things went great. Others? Not so much. So, here’s my honest recap, both the wins and the struggles.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:
Progress isn’t always perfect, and that’s okay.
Here’s where I struggled last month and the lessons I’m taking with me into February.
1. Keeping Up with My Bible Plan
Every year, I tell myself, This is the year I finally read the Bible from start to finish. So, I picked the chronological reading plan on YouVersion, thinking it would make the process easier. And then Job happened.
Listen, I respect Job. His story is important. But reading through all those long conversations tested my patience. Every day, I’d open the app, see how many chapters I had left, and suddenly, washing dishes became urgent. But I stuck it out, and now, I’m in Exodus, where things are getting dramatic. If Job was a slow-burn novel, Exodus is a full-blown action movie.
Lesson learned: Sometimes, discipline isn’t about enjoying the process, it’s about pushing through even when it feels slow.
2. Writing on My Blog
I started January with the best of intentions: This year, we’re writing consistently! My blog was supposed to be popping with fresh content, deep insights, and helpful resources.
But somehow, my blog is still looking at me like, Sis, where’s the content?
I have ideas, so many of them. But the motivation to actually sit down and write? Nowhere to be found. Every time I thought about it, my brain said, Maybe later, and suddenly, it was the end of the month. At this point, I need to sit myself down and conduct a serious performance review.
Lesson learned: Waiting for motivation is a trap. Sometimes, you just have to start, even if it’s messy.
i.e; Motivation is a scam. Just start.
3. Resigning from a Job I Loved
Making the decision to leave a job you love is like breaking up with someone you still care about. You know it’s time, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy.
I knew I had to step down from my role, and new opportunities were calling me. But nobody prepared me for the emotional rollercoaster that followed. One day, I was excited for a fresh start. The next, I was questioning everything, wondering, Did I make the right choice?
Growth is uncomfortable. Even when you know you’re making the best decision for yourself, it still stings.
4. Navigatingng a Mentorship Program as a Mentee
I was so excited to join this mentorship program. I imagined myself soaking up wisdom, networking with brilliant minds, and having deep, life-changing conversations.
January work resumed, I was drowning in work, trying to catch up on assignments, and feeling like the mentee who needed mentoring on how to be a good mentee. Every week, I’d tell myself, I’ll do better next week, but next week came with its own chaos.
Lesson learned: Growth doesn’t happen by accident. If something is important to me, I need to create time for it, intentionally.
5. Journaling & Self-Reflection
I wanted to be the kind of person who journals daily, reflecting on my emotions and tracking my personal growth. Instead, I just overanalyzed my thoughts in my head and called it a day.
Some days, I stared at my blank journal and thought, Maybe I’ll write when I have something profound to say. Other days, I just didn’t have the energy. But the truth is, journaling isn’t about being profound, it’s about showing up and creating space for self-awareness.
6. Resuming JoliJoni for 2025
JoliJoni, a travel brand I partner with was supposed to be in agile mode this month.
I had grand plans for our 2025 travel calendar, new destinations, and exciting events. But between everything else, JoliJoni was quietly sitting on the sidelines, waiting for me to come back to it.
Finally worked on the calendar with my partner for the year and we’re off to a good start this month.
7. Missing Out on Mental Health Courses
As someone passionate about mental health, I should have been more intentional about learning and taking courses. Instead, I let busyness take over, and before I knew it, January was over.
The irony? I tell other people to prioritize their mental well-being all the time.
Lesson learned: Knowledge doesn’t just happen. If I want to keep growing in this field, I need to actively make time for learning.
Things I Did in January That Just Made Sense
Now, for the wins because even in the chaos, some things went right.
– Didn’t miss a Sunday service: Consistency is key, and God remains the plug.
– Caught up on my Bible plan: Day 36, still standing. Exodus is dramatic, and I’m here for it.
– Got my school issue sorted after 3 years: A standing ovation for patience and perseverance!
– Wrote a blog post: The creative block tried it, but I won.
– Did my yearly compass: Vision? Set. Goals? Clear. February? Ready!
– Started a mentorship program: I may be struggling to keep up, but we’re in it!
– Started a mental health course: Because growth requires work, not just vibes.
– Had my first outreach of the year with SDG For Her: Nothing beats starting the year by giving back.
– Planned an intimate 30th birthday party, and it was beautiful: Soft life, intentional moments, core memories unlocked.
– Left jobs that no longer fit my goals: Making space for new opportunities and better alignment.
– Made a big investment: Scary but necessary. Future me will thank me.
What I’m Taking Into February
✅Growth isn’t linear Some months are about thriving, and some are just about figuring things out. Both are valid.
✅1% improvement every day is still progress, It doesn’t have to be perfect. Small, consistent steps matter.
✅It’s okay to start again January wasn’t perfect, but February is a fresh page.
January was a test run. February? Let’s do this properly.
Now, over to you, what’s one thing you struggled with last month, and how are you planning to improve in February?
Talk soon.
JD