“Take a long pause…breathe and know that things are happening for you and not to you” ~Ashton Kutcher
At this stage of life, I’ve realized the world rarely slows down for anyone. We spend so much of our time in motion, chasing the next weekend, vacation, or project. Even now, it’s easy to get caught up in that rhythm. Our days are filled with appointments, commitments, and constant notifications. And while the pace of life may not have slowed, I’ve learned that I can.
Every now and then, I scroll through social media and see friends traveling, celebrating milestones, or reinventing themselves. For a moment, I wonder if I should be doing more. But then I remind myself that life isn’t a race. The true measure of a good life isn’t in how much we’ve accomplished but it’s in how deeply we’ve lived, loved, and learned.
But somewhere between January’s resolutions and December’s rush, we often lose sight of how much we have grown. It wasn’t until I paused to look back that I realized how many shifts, both subtle and significant, had shaped this past year. Reflection helped me see that personal growth isn’t just about feeling proud, it’s a strategic practice for creating a more intentional future.
Realign Your Goals
Instead of constantly pushing to become a “better” version of yourself—smarter, richer, more productive—use this time to realign your goals with what truly matters. Busy calendars and overflowing inboxes shouldn’t be badges of honor. You can be productive without being overwhelmed. Overcommitting to endless activities doesn’t always move you forward; it can diminish your impact.
So, take a step back. Gather feedback from peers. Reflect on what’s working and what isn’t. Doing so will renew your energy and give you clarity to move into 2026 with purpose. Grab your partner, colleagues, or a journal, and ask yourself: What accomplishments am I most proud of this year? What barriers did I face? How did I overcome them? What patterns might be holding me back? And the most important question: How can I apply these lessons to my 2026 goals?
For example, if your goal is to save for a new home, reflect on what made saving difficult this year. Were there impulsive spending habits or unclear financial priorities? By recognizing your patterns, you can create a more realistic and mindful plan for the year ahead. And remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Seek guidance, lean on your support system, and start 2026 with both your goals and your reality in alignment. If you need any help creating a path to your financial goals, never forget we’re here to support you.
Reflection is Essential
Creating space for reflection is not a luxury; it’s essential. It’s the difference between being busy and being impactful, between feeling burnt out and feeling effective. The most successful people aren’t those with the fullest calendars. They’re the ones who intentionally pause to reflect, recalibrate, and act with purpose. If you lead others, don’t feel pressured to match the fast-paced hustle culture. Instead, model a slower, more intentional rhythm. Embrace reflection and gratitude because they’ll help you lead with greater clarity and create a more lasting impact.
As 2025 draws to a close, take a deep breath. Be proud of what you’ve done, no matter how big or small. Pause. Realign. And step confidently into 2026 ready to make it your most meaningful year yet.
Marilyn Suey
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ®
Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor®
Accredited Investment Fiduciary®
Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor®
marilyn.suey@diamondgroupwealthadvisors.com
Marilyn Suey is a Registered Representative with, and securities and Retirement Plan Consulting Program advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. Other advisory services offered through Mariner Independent Advisor Network, LLC a Registered Investment Advisor. The Diamond Group Wealth Advisors and Mariner Independent Advisor Network, LLC are separate entities from LPL Financial.CA Insurance License #0E01981
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification mark CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ® in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification mark.
Marilyn is the Founder and CEO of The Diamond Group Wealth Advisors. She is a nationally recognized Financial Educator, Author, Speaker, and Wealth Manager, who you may have seen on NBC, ABC, CBS and FOX network affiliates and Yahoo News, Wall Street Journal’s Market Watch, Wall Street Select and others. Marilyn and her team at The Diamond Group Wealth Advisors have been showing business owners, healthcare professionals, and executives how to accumulate, preserve, and pass on their wealth for almost 20 years.
Marilyn developed The Prosperity Blue Print , a five-step wealth planning process, that includes strategy for Wealth Accumulation, Wealth Preservation, and planning for your ideal retirement lifestyle. She founded the Savvy Women Community where she shares her wisdom and experience with like-minded women. She received an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a degree in Applied Math and Economics from UC Berkeley. To schedule your complimentary Lifestyle Upgrade Assessment, call: (925) 219-0080 or email; marilyn.suey@diamondgroupwealthadvisors.com
