It’s a new year, a fresh start, and a chance to look at our lives from a new perspective. As we set goals and plan for the months ahead, it’s easy to get bogged down in the details, overwhelmed by to-do lists, and unsure where to start.
What if, instead of diving straight in, we paused to gain a higher perspective—literally and figuratively? That’s what I learned during a hot air balloon ride at the Albuquerque International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. The experience wasn’t just breathtaking; it was a masterclass in seeing the bigger picture. Here’s how that ride can inspire your approach to 2025.
A Moment in the Sky
Picture this: The sun hasn’t yet risen, and the desert air is crisp. Around me, vibrant hot air balloons inflate, their burners roaring against the quiet dawn. I climb into the basket, feeling a mix of excitement and nervous energy.
As we lift off, the ground begins to shrink. Cars turn into specks; roads and buildings blur together. Soon, the horizon opens up, and I see the world in a way I never have before—vast, interconnected, and surprisingly calm.
At that altitude, I realized: when you rise above the daily grind, you start to see patterns and possibilities that were hidden before. The noise of life—emails, meetings, endless responsibilities—fades away, replaced by a sense of freedom and clarity.
Challenges of Seeing the Bigger Picture
On the ground, it’s easy to lose that sense of clarity. We face:
- Tunnel Vision: Focusing on immediate tasks can block long-term goals.
- Fear of Change: The unknown can feel daunting, making us cling to the familiar.
- Overcommitment: Endless responsibilities prevent us from pausing to reflect.
To overcome these barriers, we need to embrace the “100,000-foot view” and create intentional space for reflection and recalibration.
Strategies for a Sky-High Perspective
- Pause and Reflect
Before setting goals, take time to understand where you’ve been. Reflect on what worked in 2024 and what didn’t.
Action Tip: Spend an hour journaling. Write down three lessons from last year and how they’ll guide you in 2025. - Step Back from the Noise
Like stepping into the balloon lifted me above the desert, taking time away from your routine can help you see clearly.
Action Tip: Schedule a quiet afternoon—whether it’s a walk in nature, a phone-free day, or time with a mentor—to reflect on your big picture. - Focus on Possibilities
From the sky, the horizon seemed limitless. Approach your year with that same openness.
Action Tip: Write down one bold aspiration for 2025 that excites and scares you. Then brainstorm three small steps to start moving toward it.
Lessons from the Balloon
The ride also taught me this: while the pilot can control the balloon’s altitude, the wind determines its direction. Life is the same. We can set goals and plan actions, but we must also embrace the unknown and adapt to unexpected shifts.
This year, challenge yourself to:
- Dream Big, Plan Small: Break bold aspirations into manageable steps.
- Prioritize What Matters: Focus on the activities and relationships that align with your values.
- Embrace Uncertainty: Trust the journey, even if the path isn’t perfectly clear.
As we move further into 2025, let’s rise above the noise and take a moment to “embrace the sky.” Whether it’s daring to dream bigger, letting go of limiting beliefs, or stepping back to reflect, this is your chance to set the stage for a year filled with clarity, courage, and possibility.
Turning Challenges Into Opportunities – How I Can Help
Breaking barriers and achieving your goals isn’t easy, but with the right support and strategies, it’s absolutely possible.
As a certified coach, I specialize in helping women of color in academia define their goals, build resilience, and strategize for success. Coaching provides a safe space to reflect on challenges, craft personalized strategies, and take meaningful steps toward realizing your full potential.
Ready to take the next step?
Reach out to me directly – click here to schedule your call to start the conversation.
Together, we can make your journey one of clarity, confidence, and impact.
🎙️ P.S. For more insights and inspiration, tune into The Acclivity Podcast, where I share actionable strategies and stories to empower women of color in academia. Listen and subscribe today!