Footsteps in the Sand

Imagine you’re on a beach. Waves crashing, birds chirping, children laughing. Feel the sun covering your skin.

Now look down at your feet as you walk along the sand. Left, right, left, right. One foot after another. Moving forward. Momentum in place.

Now look back. Notice the footsteps cemented in the sand…

The footsteps that got you to where you are in that moment.

Are some of them there? Or were they washed away by the crashing waves?

Odds are some footsteps are present still, while some have disappeared, never to be seen again.

Now, in a similar vein…

Think of the “footsteps” you took in 2024.

Steps taken along your journey this past year.

What are footsteps that are present still, that lasted, that had long-term influence in your life and in the lives of others this year?

What are footsteps that seem to have disappeared, that you thought had meaning but really were just a “chasing after the wind” — here today and gone tomorrow?

(Side note: no better lyric on footsteps in the sand than from Ben Rector’s Steady Love)

Below are some examples of “footsteps” that may spur thought…

Lasting footsteps: relationships, challenging experiences, influence, giving back, growth, disciplines, healthy habits

Disappearing footsteps: approval, image, success, media, escape

Then, reflect on 2024 and vision cast for 2025 by taking contemplating the following questions:

1. What steps did you take in 2024 that lasted? Feel free to use your calendar from 2024 to spark your memory.

2. What steps did you take in 2024 that disappeared? Feel free to use your calendar from 2024 to spark your memory.

3. Using questions 1-2, what learnings can you take away to positively influence 2025?

4. Using questions 1-3, what is one word/phrase theme to use as a guide in 2025?

Here’s to making footsteps that truly matter in 2025 — footsteps that last, that endure.

If you are looking for practical ways to flourish in life and work as a young professional, consider subscribing to The Yo Pro and share with your community.