Some Lessons To Be Learned
As we approach the end of the year, as many of us do, I’ve found myself reflecting on the moments that shaped my work, my perspective, and my connection with all of you. Just like past years, this year has been a journey of growth, learning, and stumbles along the way. So, in the spirit of looking back, I want to share the lessons that stood out to me this year—lessons that I hope will resonate with you as much as they have with me.
1. Progress Is Not Always Linear (and That’s OK)
This is a lesson I revisit often, both personally and professionally. Whether it’s working through body image challenges or making strides in recovery, progress can feel like a chaotic squiggle rather than a straight line. And yet, every twist and turn holds value. One client’s story this year reminded me of this: they described their setbacks not as failures but as “detours with lessons.” I couldn’t agree more.
If you’re ending this year feeling like you’re not where you wanted to be, remember that the journey itself is meaningful. Take a moment to celebrate how far you’ve come—even if it’s not as far as you hoped.
2. The Inner Critic Can Be Loud, But It Doesn’t Get the Final Word
We’ve all heard that voice in our heads—the one that critiques our bodies, choices, or worth. This year, I’ve seen so many clients (and myself!) find ways to challenge that voice. One of the most powerful tools has been asking: “Ok, but what’s next? What are the other voices in my head saying?”
It’s not about silencing the inner critic completely (wouldn’t that be nice?) but learning to recognize it for what it is: a voice, but not the only one we can access. Ending the year with more self-compassion and less judgment is a win I’ll take any day.
3. Letting Go of Control Opens the Door to Freedom
One of the hardest lessons for many of us—myself included—is releasing the need to control every aspect of our lives, especially when it comes to food and body image. This year, I’ve been inspired by clients who took small but brave steps toward trusting their bodies. Whether it was finally doing something that they’ve been avoiding for years or trying a new meal, these moments reinforced a truth I keep coming back to: freedom is found in letting go, not holding tighter.
4. Community Is Everything
I’ve been reminded this year of the power of connection. From the courageous stories shared on Men Unscripted to the insights exchanged in groups or holding space for grieving in individual sessions, I’ve seen time and again how healing happens in community with one another. Recovery, self-acceptance, and even just surviving the tough days are much more challenging in isolation.
If you’re feeling stuck, consider this your nudge to reach out to someone who gets it. Whether it’s a friend, a support group, or even a stranger on the same path, connection can be the lifeline you didn’t know you needed.
As we head into the new year, I hope these lessons can serve as little guideposts for you, too. Progress isn’t perfect, the inner critic isn’t in charge, letting go is liberating, and community makes it all more bearable. These things will continue to show up in the new year; that is to be expected and don’t be surprised when they do. If you take nothing else away, let it be this: you are worthy of compassion, grace, and support—from others and, most importantly, from yourself.
Here’s to carrying these lessons forward into the new year and seeing where the journey takes us next.
Warmly,
Aaron
These are great. Going to put a post it note with these on my forehead for 2025.
Stay safe, dear Aaron.