Happy 2025!
Happy New Year!
Well… that’s if you follow the Gregorian calendar. Many cultures celebrate the New Year at different times. Lunar New Year, Muharram, Nowruz, Rosh Hashanah etc.—there’s a world of beginnings that remind us that change and renewal don’t have to follow one timeline.
If you’re not feeling motivated to tackle new resolutions, routines, or goals just yet, give yourself permission to start when it feels right for you. The most important part? Choosing intentionally, with full awareness, not dictated by anyone but you.
Being on trend may bring short-term satisfaction, sure. But real, meaningful change? That happens when we dig deeper—not into what we want to change or how we’ll do it, but into our why.
So...2025 year of what?
What drives you?
What values do you want to honor?
Let those guide you into your new year, whether that starts today, next month, or next season.
P.S.
Also, this newsletter? It is new-ish. Ha! I have been on hiatus in writing for a very long time. I removed it on my priority list 'coz life has been life-ing but I’m baaaaaccckk!
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🍵 Culture Tea & Insights
While many corporations like Toyota, Starbucks, Walmart, and McDonald’s have stepped away from their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments, Costco has taken a stand. The retail giant boldly rejected the anti-DEI backlash, reaffirming its commitment to creating inclusive spaces for its employees and customers.
What makes Costco’s decision particularly remarkable for me is that the company's board of directors is unanimous in their public stance – definitely a rare display of collective moral courage in corporate leadership today.
Why does this matter? Over the past few years, DEI initiatives have faced growing resistance, often fueled by political rhetoric and misinformation. Many companies have scaled back, citing economic pressures or fear of public criticism. Costco’s decision to hold firm is a powerful reminder that DEI is not just a set of initiatives but a business strategy rooted in values and vision. It also shows us that leadership with integrity is alive and well.
Costco's unwavering commitment to DEI, despite external pressures, serves as a compelling example of aligning business practices with core values. Their stance illustrates that fostering an inclusive environment is not only a moral obligation but also a strategic advantage that can lead to sustained success. Read more
As leaders and change-makers, it’s essential to understand the full scope of DEI outcomes and impact—from shaping culture to driving profits in your organization.
Here are some guiding questions to read more here.
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🎯 Leadership & Wellbeing
Having said all that.. It’s the reason why connecting with your values as a leader is so critical and foundational on how you lead teams, organizations and most importantly - yourself.
In my coaching practice, I’ve worked with many leaders who haven’t taken the time to reflect on their values. It’s not their fault; society often emphasizes outcomes and strategies over core power.
Yes, I said power because when you know your why, you lead with clarity and confidence, especially in times of uncertainty. Our values can move us and inspire change.
There are many value exercises you can find online but one thing I’d like to emphasize is this: know your values that live beyond the “I”.
Here’s where you can start, read more!
🌟 Friday Reflections
There are many talks about removing pronouns on social media and public profiles due to safety concerns and far right social pressure. The trans & nonbinary community have been targeted across the US—used as a scapegoat.
I’ll admit, I considered removing my pronouns to play it safe, too. But then I realized I’ve already spent too much of my life in self-rejection, suppressing who I was to fit into a world that wasn’t ready for me.
I am who I am. People’s inability to accept the validity of my existence speaks to their lack of humanity and limitations, nothing to do with me.
Read more of my Friday reflections here.
That’s all for this week!
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Take care of yourself and remember: There’s no prerequisite to your worth! ✨
See you next week!
