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START THIS YEAR WITH CAUTION
I feel deeply concerned about how many people are rushing into this year without taking the necessary pause to think. It’s as if turning the page on the calendar is a magic reset button that can wipe away the troubles, worries, and failures of the past year. Though the excitement of a new year is understandable, it’s important to know that simply moving forward without caution can lead us down paths that might not be in our best interest. This 2025, we must be cautious in every aspect of our lives: our health, education, relationships, pursuit of success, and even our understanding of death. This year, we need to slow down and take a breath before diving into the next phase of our lives.
When it comes to education, there is always pressure to constantly learn more and accumulate more knowledge, especially in today’s fast-paced world where new information is readily available at the tap of a finger. But not all knowledge is created equal. It’s easy to get swept up in the race to earn degrees, certifications, and accolades, but real education is about more than just ticking boxes. It’s about genuine understanding, skill development, and applying what you learn in ways that can truly improve your life and the lives of those around you. This year, be selective about what you learn. Don’t feel pressured to take every course or enroll in every program just because others are doing so. Choose education that serves your long-term goals, Move your curiosity, and enriches your personal growth. Real education takes time, effort, and focus. Rushing into an endless pursuit of degrees and qualifications will only leave you feeling overwhelmed and burnt out. Take the time to learn at your own pace, absorb the information, and most importantly, apply it. Let your education serve you, not the other way around. You may need to read that again!
Now Health has always been a priority for most people, but every year, the promise of becoming healthier tends to fade away as quickly as it came. Many rush into extreme diets and overzealous workout routines, thinking they can transform their bodies in a matter of weeks. This rush towards unattainable goals sets us up for disappointment and also harm our bodies in the long run. A year is a long time, and health doesn’t change overnight. It’s not about making drastic changes, but about making small, sustainable improvements that you can stick with over time. This year, take it slow with your health. Don’t set yourself up for failure by trying to make dramatic shifts too quickly. Instead, focus on creating healthy habits, not instant results. Whether it’s sleeping better, eating more mindfully, or exercising regularly, the key is consistency. Small changes can have a massive impact over time, and that’s what you should aim for. Don’t rush into health – build it over time, and be patient with yourself as you make gradual progress. And don’t forget to go for regular check up this year, its very important.
We all have relationships—family, friends, partners—that hold great importance in our lives. But, as we pursue our ambitions and personal goals, it’s all too easy to let these relationships take a backseat. Whether it’s because we’re working long hours or focusing on self-improvement, it’s easy to neglect the very people who make our lives meaningful. Relationships require attention, care, and intention. This year, don’t fall into the trap of thinking that success in your career or personal achievements will bring you fulfillment if you sacrifice the relationships that matter. Be cautious with how you allocate your time and energy. Spend time with your family, make an effort to connect with old friends, and nurture the relationships that make you feel grounded and supported. It’s easy to get distracted by the demands of life, but the most important thing you can do this year is to show up for the people who matter. The pursuit of success can be fulfilling, but success without love and connection often leaves us feeling empty. Don’t forget that at the end of the day, the people in your life are the ones who will stand by you through thick and thin. Their love and support are invaluable, and you should never take them for granted. Be cautious!
Furthermore, the pursuit of career success and financial stability often becomes a major focus. The world constantly tells us that we need to strive for more, earn more, and be more. It can feel like an endless race, and we often find ourselves chasing money, promotions, and recognition. But this kind of pursuit can be exhausting, and it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Don’t get me wrong – money and a stable career are important. But they should never be the sole purpose of your life. This year, take a step back and ask yourself what success truly means to you. Is it a bigger paycheck? A higher position? Or is it finding balance and fulfillment in the work you do every day? The pursuit of success is important, but it’s equally important to make sure that you’re pursuing the right kind of success. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that more is always better. Sometimes, less really is more. A balanced life, where work and personal fulfillment coexist, is far more rewarding than simply accumulating wealth or status.
Finally, there’s the matter of death. It’s something that many of us avoid thinking about, yet it is one of the few guarantees in life. The thought of death often brings up feelings of fear and uncertainty, and so we push it aside, thinking it’s something that doesn’t affect us until much later. But the truth is, death is a reminder that time is precious. It’s a reminder that we can’t waste a single moment of our lives. This year, be cautious with how you spend your time. Don’t wait for the “right moment” to pursue your passions or express your love. Don’t put off the things that matter because you’re waiting for the perfect time or the perfect circumstances. There’s never going to be a perfect time. Death teaches us that our time here is limited, and that should be a motivation to live fully and meaningfully. This year, don’t let fear hold you back. Live with intention, chase your dreams, and make every moment count. Life is too short to spend it worrying about what might happen. Instead, focus on what you can do now to live a life that is rich in experiences, love, and fulfillment.
Starting the year with caution isn’t about fear; it’s about being mindful. It’s about making choices that are aligned with your values and ensuring that you’re not rushing through life without considering the consequences. This year, take a step back and evaluate where you’re putting your energy. Prioritize your health, invest in meaningful education, nurture your relationships, pursue a career that fulfills you, and live with purpose. Time moves quickly, and the best way to make the most of it is to be intentional about how you live it. You might thank me later at the end of this year.
This is part of my extended effort to make the world a better place for all.
Eugene Nanven a public affairs analyst writes from Abuja FCT Nigeria
