As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, many of us breathe a collective sigh of relief. The old year, with all its disappointments and heartaches, is finally behind us, ushering in a fresh start filled with uncertainties. But as we welcome the new year, we can’t help but wonder: can we really leave the past behind?
For Kaiya, the answer was far from certain. barely a year ago, she had lost her job, gone through a painful breakup, her monetized YouTube channel was hacked with no hopes of getting it back, and now at a point where she’s struggling to find meaning in her life. As she looked back on the past 12 months, all she could see were the ashes of her failed dreams, career, and relationships.
But as she stood in her quiet apartment, watching the fireworks light up the night sky, Kaiya felt a spark of hope ignite within her. She realized that the new year wasn’t just a chance to start over – it was an opportunity to rise from the ashes just like a phoenix and forge a new path.
As Kaiya gave her situation a deeper thought, she came to the realization that she wasn’t alone. Millions of people around the world were facing their own struggles, from chronic illness to financial hardship. Yet, despite the odds, they were finding ways to rise above their challenges and start anew.
The question, then, is: How can she follow in their footsteps? 
Four ways to rise from the ashes of last year’s disappointments and find renewed hope in the new year
1. Let go of the past
It’s tempting to dwell on what went wrong last year, but holding onto past hurts and regrets can weigh us down. Yesterday is history. Instead, try to focus on the present moment and the future ahead.
2. Find your why
What gets you out of bed in the morning? What drives you to keep going, even when the going gets tough? Finding your purpose and passion can give you the motivation you need to start fresh.
3. Take small steps
Rebuilding your life can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start with small, achievable goals and celebrate your successes along the way. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and a little drop makes a mighty ocean.
4. Find joy in each day
Create a happiness jar. For each day you accomplish something good, have a LOL moment, experience something you’re grateful for, or receive a compliment, write it down and add it to the happiness jar. There are no small moments of happiness.
As Kaiya looked out at the bright lights of the new year, she felt a sense of hope and renewal brewing inside her. She knew that the road ahead wouldn’t be easy, but she was ready to face it head-on… and so can you.
If Kaiya can, so can I!! 👏
Yes, you can 👏🤞
Absolutely spot on. What a write-up!
Just dawned on me how I wasn’t able to “achieve a lot” last year. From disappointment to the other…all because I was missing those small steps and tryna make the large jump to success.
I’ll henceforth start with the small steps, build by build, and who knows, I might be successful this time around.
Thank you, Odun.
You’ll definitely be successful Cyril, rooting for you🙌🤞