Related Articles
By: Ellie Burgueño, Journalist and Writer.
As I write these words, I reflect on a 2025 filled with excitement, growth, and countless opportunities—moments we embraced the best we could. Another year has passed in the blink of an eye. We witnessed tension and tragedy, but also triumphs and new doors opening. I close this year with satisfaction in the work we accomplished, yet my heart is already looking forward to 2026—a year brimming with fresh opportunities to bring our dreams and projects to life. Remember the wisdom of the popular metaphor about utopia: “Utopia is on the horizon. I move two steps closer; it moves two steps further away. I walk another ten steps, and the horizon runs ten steps further away. As much as I may walk, I’ll never reach it. So what’s the point of utopia? The point is this: to keep walking.”
2026 promises not only opportunities, but challenges—trials that will test our strength and resilience. Yet, what would we be if our spirit were weak, easily discouraged, or frightened? Many of us have already faced the harshest storms—moments that seemed insurmountable. But we survived, stronger and wiser, refined like gold in the fire. A higher force has guided us, protected us, and propelled us forward, ensuring we thrive regardless of the odds. We are here with purpose, ready to fulfill a mission that transcends ourselves.
We have seen deceit, pain, and betrayal—but we have learned from it all. We have washed our faces, stood tall, and continued walking—fearless, focused, and ready to embrace our calling. Now it is up to us to create joy and meaning. Stop doubting yourself. Stop self-pity. Stop neglecting your own growth. Listen to your heart, sense the needs around you, and act. It is never too late to become the person you were meant to be. Be it!
As the year turns, take these remaining days to envision the person you want to become. Meditate, nourish your body, exercise, read, write, create, or simply disconnect from the noise of the world. Treasure your family, friends, and loved ones—the ones who stood by you when no one else would. Life is brief, and if we truly recognized its fragility, we would be more empathetic, generous, and driven to dream bigger and act with purpose.
Crafting Meaningful Resolutions: To enter the new year with clarity and focus, start by reflecting on the lessons of the past year. Identify what truly matters to you and what will move you closer to your goals. Break your resolutions into specific, achievable steps and assign deadlines to them. Consider including areas such as personal growth, health, relationships, and professional ambitions. By writing them down and planning strategically, you give yourself a roadmap to success—one step at a time. Remember, a resolution without action is just a wish.
Turning Challenges into Advantages: The future will present both obstacles and opportunities. Research shows that while negative events can impact our stress levels and productivity, they also build resilience, foster problem-solving, and strengthen our adaptability. By acknowledging the challenges ahead while focusing on the positive potential, we can transform adversity into an advantage. Every difficulty becomes a lesson, every setback an opportunity to grow, and every triumph a reminder of our capacity to create the life we envision.
Learn patience. Move deliberately. Do not react with anger or anxiety. Avoid rushing to conclusions, overthinking or judging others. Lead with love and integrity. If we cultivate these habits, perhaps we will see seeds of hope flourish—in our homes, neighborhoods, cities, and countries. Use your imagination to envision a world of peace, prosperity, and fulfilled dreams. Strategic effort and steadfast faith will turn those visions into reality. Mark your calendars, set deadlines, and take consistent steps toward your aspirations.
And above all—never stop dreaming. We were given the gift to envision our lives as we wish them to be. Use it! Because if you can dream it, you can make it happen.
I want to see a world where people are unafraid to dream bigger, where compassion flows freely—where encountering a stranger on the street sparks a genuine desire to help, and where courage guides us to speak up against injustice. A world where each of us recognizes our power to create positive change, to uplift others, and to act with integrity and empathy. Let us embrace the courage to dream, to care, and to transform not only our own lives but the world around us.
I wish you nothing but peace, love, joy, and a life overflowing with abundance.
Happy holidays and I hope the best year of your life is around the corner! Happy New Year!
With warmth and admiration,
Ellie Burgueno
Subscribe to my newsletter on my website to receive exclusive updates on my upcoming literary works, editorial releases, book tour, and conferences.
👉 www.ellieburgueno.com
Ellie Burgueño is a journalist, writer, and international speaker with more than 18 years of experience in media, literature, and leadership. She is the author of two published books and the founder of binational editorial platforms that promote critical thinking, financial freedom, and personal and professional empowerment.
