2021 shocked us to the depths of who we are. This past year, I have realized that sometimes life doesn’t always happen to us. Sometimes it happens for us. Self-awareness, self-discipline, and self-leadership will continue to be more critical than ever. Although we will continue traversing the rocky roads in 2022 and onward, there will still be calm, discovery, beauty, and wisdom immersed along the highway of life.

While we never have all the “answers and whys”, the marathon will continue as we grow, heal, let go, learn/unlearn, forgive, discover, dream, be kind, love, live and to be uncommon. It’s okay to have more questions than answers, and life not all figured out. Occasionally enlightenment lies in silence, stillness, and mystery.

Let’s commit to getting 1% better mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally today and this coming year. We should never let a day go by where we have not done one thing to become better today than yesterday. Each day we are not just fueling our bodies but feeding our minds. We should spend much of our lives practicing the process of unlearning to relearn. A person who does not read and nurtures their curiosity is no better off than a person who cannot read. Self-education is life itself. It’s the birthplace of self-discovery and transformation.

In this unique moment and past year, know your life, voice, and story have a purpose. It is okay not to have discovered it today. But don’t give up, keep fighting, don’t ever stop exploring and appreciating your shot at life. Investing in our personal growth is the best investment we will ever make. Before loving others, we must love, lead, and manage ourselves. A lesson I continue to learn.

While there is no manual for 2022, realize wisely and earnestly that the human spirit’s power will continue cultivating a path forward while rising above the obstacles.

Have a safe and happy new year!

Never stop asking the question “Why?” and being unique.

—Brian Nadon