As we usher in a new year, I find immense value in the wisdom shared by others — thoughtful guidance as we embark on 2025.  There’s something truly inspiring about amplifying the insights and intelligence of those around us. As a speaker and communication coach, I understand that I won’t always have all the answers, but perhaps someone else does. Whenever I come across a thought-provoking sentiment, clever slogan, or insightful commentary, I make a note of it in one of my many journals. These snippets serve as reminders for myself, and as treasures to share with others when the moment is right.

This past year, in the midst of chaos, I embraced the insights of Dacher Keltner, a leading expert in the science of awe. He suggests that “moral beauty brings people awe around the world.” WI began to dedicate 15 minutes each day to observe and document acts of kindness, charity, self-sacrifice, courage, and other positive deeds that evoke a heartfelt response. This commitment to recognizing moral beauty will accompany me into 2025.

In addition, some great advice came through in the December 31 edition of The Daily in the New York Times, hosted by Melissa Kirsch, the Culture and Lifestyle editor. Readers shared their best advice from 2024, and here are some gems that stood out to me:

  1. Do Less Talking, More Listening: This advice resonates deeply, especially in a world where communication often feels rushed. Focusing on truly listening can foster deeper connections and understanding.
  2. Reach Out to Mentors/Teachers: Acknowledging those who have impacted our lives can not only strengthen relationships but also create a sense of gratitude and continuity in our journeys.
  3. Instead of Trying Harder, Try Softer: This reminds us that sometimes resilience and strength come from gentleness and flexibility, allowing us to navigate challenges with grace.
  4. Never Crouch with Spurs On: This metaphor suggests being mindful of our approach and how we present ourselves to others. It encourages us to avoid being overly aggressive or defensive, fostering a more open environment.
  5. What Others Think of You is None of Your Business: This is a powerful reminder to focus on self-acceptance and authenticity rather than seeking external validation.
  6. Everything is Temporary: Embracing the transient nature of life encourages us to savor the present and appreciate the beauty in fleeting moments.
  7. Focus on Learning Over Pain: This advice is a poignant reminder that our struggles can be rich sources of growth if we shift our perspective.
  8. Safe Harbor vs. Storm: This highlights the importance of emotional responsibility and the impact we have on those around us, encouraging us to create safe spaces for others.
  9. Keep Swimming: A simple yet profound reminder to persist through challenges, drawing from the resilience we often need in tough times. Dory can’t be wrong!
  10. Don’t Borrow Trouble: Letting go of what we cannot control frees us to focus on what truly matters, leading to a more peaceful mindset.
  11. Practice Makes Better: This emphasizes the value of continual improvement and the journey of growth, rather than perfection.

Other favorites for me include therapist Esther Perel’s shares that she avoids listening to what people are fighting about but rather what they are fighting for. It invites us to look beyond surface conflicts to understand underlying values and motivations, fostering empathy and connection.

Adam Grant’s reminder, ““We pay too much attention to the most confident voices—and too little attention to the most thoughtful ones. Certainty is not a sign of credibility. Speaking assertively is not a substitute for thinking deeply. It’s better to learn from complex thinkers than smooth talkers.” Adam’s advice encourages us to develop a culture of critical thinking and reflection, urging us to engage with complexity rather than simplicity.

As we move into 2025, I would add a personal nugget of wisdom: “Embrace curiosity.” This means approaching each day with an open mind, ready to learn from experiences and interactions. Curiosity not only enhances our understanding but also enriches our relationships and interactions.

What a wonderful journey of growth and wisdom awaits us in the new year!