The new year brings reflection. As I’ve written previously, I’m not big on resolutions for the new year, but I will spend a few hours today looking back at my calendar and thinking about what I enjoyed most (and least) and what I might change going into this year. It may not be as glamorous or celebrated, but I’ve found it much more practical even if the exercise looks slightly different each time.

In comparison to the past few times January 1 has rolled around, there is much more stability in my life today. Two years ago, I changed my residence on New Year’s Day. Last year, I was a few months into my residence in Durham and celebrated with friends by watching the fireworks in London through the power of streaming television. If anyone has children who want to see fireworks for the new year, that is a handy trick. This year, I’m in the same apartment, there were thunderstorms on New Year’s Eve, and I was in bed by 10. Sure, my mood is not as dark as it was during the COVID years, but the hopeful expectation of positive change from the last couple of years is absent.

There are plenty of reasons why I should be excited—I’m coming off time with family, I have a well-positioned business, my social calendar is fuller than it was a year ago, and I have an upcoming extended vacation—yet I’ve felt morose these past few days, even on this bright and sunny morning. I’m sure I’m not alone in that, and it is my hope that reading this helps at least one of you know that you’re not alone if you are experiencing malaise yourself. After scheduling this to send, I’ll take a walk in that sunshine.