As one year ends and a new one begins, I find it helpful to pause and reflect on a simple but powerful question:
What am I most proud of that I accomplished this past year?
When I sit with that question, a few moments rise to the surface—some public, some deeply personal.
In 2025, I’m especially proud of:
Launching my book Truths & Contradictions: Life-Changing Experiences in Afghanistan—and watching it reach #1 in Women’s Social Sciences e-books and Afghan History on Amazon.ca, as well as #1 Hot New Release on Amazon.com
Bringing people together through both a virtual and an in-person book launch—gatherings that beautifully wove together different chapters of my life
Donating a portion of book sales to Right to Learn Afghanistan, a non-profit that has been supporting the education of women and girls in Afghanistan since 1996
Being featured in two international magazines, sharing my journey and my belief in the power of feminine leadership during times of change
Teaching in the Women Leading in Change program, part of the leadership development work of Female Wave of Change Global
Spending precious time with my four grandchildren, moments that continually remind me what truly matters
Creating space for adventure and connection, including a month-long journey to Vietnam and Laos—highlighted by celebrating my nephew’s wedding in Ho Chi Minh City
Nurturing friendships, both longstanding and new, near and far
Continuing to support causes and charities close to my heart
Looking back in this way isn’t about checking boxes or measuring productivity. It’s about acknowledging what brought meaning, connection, and growth.
For women who find themselves at a crossroads, this kind of reflection can be especially powerful. It helps ground us in what we value—and gently prepares us for what wants to emerge next.
If you feel called, I’d love to hear from you:
What is one thing you’re most proud of accomplishing in 2025?