2025 Reflections, What I Learned and What I Left Behind

Hi there! Gosh it is 2026 of January and I haven't  had a post about a reflection of my life in the past years.  

At the halfway of the year 2024, I faced a big challenge in my life that involves heartachaes and finances. He had a relationship twice with another woman. He left me for the third party with nothing as in zero. We called it here as "sumakabilang buhay". It means leaving behind the family and live with another woman or man's house. I created a  post on what I learned about it instead of a sob or dramastory. But, I never published it. It remain as a draft that I'll update from time to time.

Last year, was a mix of ups and downs, surprises, and lessons that I never expected. I sat down to reflect what was happening.  I realized that to step into 2026 sharing what I learned and left behind feels like the best way. Aside from accepting some facts, it enlighten my heart and mind.  

2025 has taught me a lot. This year, I am moving away from habits and attitudes which do not serve me. Yes, time is gold but I cannot do it in a snap of my finger.  I prayed and give it to God and wait for the Universe to trust the process and make the desires of my heart happen. Like for example with my OLA debts. I have no 15-30 job. They won't listen to that reason because they want your payment for quota. Less quota means no job. So, I stop answering them for my mental health. What I did were all a "diskarte" or strategy in English. Signed up for a task or projects and wait for the approval. When approved and finished the job, I get paid. In silence, I paid my OLA debts, bought meals and many others. I did received blessings from my friends and relatives. Since, I don't lie, I sliped my tongue and informed the giver that I cut it into half for my debts and meals/groceries. 

I also realized the value of resilience. Being a mom, you have to be strong or resilient to face the challenges thrown on you. Sometimes, I asked myself where my strength came from. 

Relationships mattered. I realized who stands by me and who doesn’t. Letting go of toxic connections became necessary for my peace. And sometimes, life surprises you, unexpected.  In some events taught me to stay flexible and open-minded, even when plans go sideways.

This year has taught me to accept the situation, be patient, and wait for the right time and timing. That includes overthinking, self-doubt, and procrastination. Also, saying goodbye to unnecessary stress and toxic situations that drained my energy. In 2026, I want to focus on what matters the most, and that means simplifying my life and my mindset.

Even with the hard moments, 2025 had its wins. I’m grateful for small joys, lessons learned, and the moments that made me laugh or feel proud of myself. To celebrate small wins with food or Jollibee is pure excellente with my son. It keeps my perspective which reminds me that growth doesn’t always look for drama. Oftentimes, it looks quiet but steady.

Now that we are here in 2026, my goal is to go live life to the fullest and leavee the unnecessary baggage behind. I focus on the clarity, positiveness, and being intentional with time and energy.  Hoping that you too can reflect, take the lessons, and let go of what holds you back. To be honest, there are still remnants of me holding back but I am trying to push it back and leave it behind. There is nothing I can do but move forward and accept it. 

Cheers! Here’s to stepping into 2026 lighter, wiser, and ready for everything it brings.