Now that we’re in the new year, I’m feeling recharged and ready to take on new challenges. After a December spent soaking up precious family time, creating special memories, and (let’s be honest) indulging in all the festive treats, I’m excited to shift gears. This time of year feels like a fresh start—a chance to refocus, set meaningful goals, and approach life with renewed optimism. As a mom, wife, and Senior Wealth Advisor, I know how important it is to find balance and carve out time for growth, both in my personal and professional life.
Here’s what I’m looking forward to most as I kick off the year:
Travel Goals: Planning, Dreaming & Exploring
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of planning your next adventure to set you up for a fun year ahead. This year, as per usual, I’m making time to cross a few destinations off my bucket list. If your dream trip feels far off, start small by creating a plan. It all starts with a bit of saving, and like I always say, it’s never too late to start! Remember, even a “small” monetary contribution to the savings fund will make a difference in the long-term.
If you need some travel inspiration, I’ve shared six easy travel destinations from Calgary, here!
Refreshing My Workout Routine
I sound like a broken record at this point, but I am a huge supporter of balance in your life, which includes balancing relaxing moments with fun, energizing workouts. In my health and wellness routine, I’ve found that keeping workouts interesting is the key to staying consistent. Lucky for us, Calgary has an abundance of studios and workouts to help us mix things up:
- Reformed Pilates: Located in the heart of Mission, this pilates concept brought to you by the HotShop YYC team offers heated reformer classes designed to challenge and strengthen the body. I love that it’s female founded, as well!
- Home Lifestyle Club: Another female founded fitness studio, Home reimagines the traditional workout space, offering a cozy and welcoming environment and classes like cycle, strength, sculpt, and stretch. It’s a place to find joy in movement and connect with a supportive community in an industry that can sometimes be intimidating for many.
- Junction 9 Yoga & Pilates: This is the perfect spot right on the cusp between downtown Calgary in the cozy neighbourhood of Inglewood. Junction 9 brings together yoga and pilates enthusiasts in an inclusive and complementary set of class options. They even have a little café in their space, which means you can grab a latte or snack after class.
Retreats and Sessions That Recharge Your Mind and Body
Taking time to reset and refocus is essential for growth, both personally and professionally. This year, I’m excited to explore retreats that combine wellness, leadership, and personal development:
- The Well with Mandy Balak: Our team has worked with Mandy Balak for transformative team-building sessions for many years (there’s a reason we keep doing them!). Mandy’s retreats focus on helping high-achieving entrepreneurs and leaders reclaim their time to create healthier, more intentional businesses. Her approach blends actionable strategies with moments of deep reflection and connection. We love her.
- Orenda Society Women’s Retreats: These retreats are designed specifically for women seeking a safe space to release, rediscover, and reignite their sense of purpose. They offer a supportive community where participants can connect with like-minded women and embrace their personal journey—a chance to find truly themselves.
Creative Workshops to Spark Joy
Finally, workshops! This year, I’m eager to immerse myself in workshops that not only challenge my artistic side but also support our vibrant local businesses. Here are a few standout experiences in Calgary that I’ve been hearing about. Maybe I’ll do one with Av!
- Ceramics at Workshop Studios: Located in Inglewood’s historic Brass Foundry building, Workshop Studios offers a range of ceramic workshops, including wheel-throwing and hand-building classes suitable for all skill levels. Their six or eight-week programs provide an in-depth exploration of pottery techniques in a welcoming environment. For a more personalized experience, they also offer private lessons tailored to individual interests.
- Cooking Classes at Cuisine et Château: Situated in Kensington, Cuisine et Château’s Interactive Culinary Centre hosts a number of cooking classes led by professional chefs. From hands-on sessions where you prepare a three-course meal to specialized workshops focusing on specific cuisines or techniques, there’s something for every food enthusiast. Their classes are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, making them a great option for a fun outing or a unique gift.
- Toof Jewelry Making Workshops: Toof Studio offers hands-on jewelry-making workshops where participants can craft their own unique pieces. These sessions are perfect for creating personalized gifts or adding bespoke items to your collection. The studio provides all necessary materials and guidance, ensuring a fulfilling creative experience.
To summarize, for me, 2025 is all about intention—filling my year with activities that bring joy, growth, and a little adventure. Whether it’s planning a dream trip, finding new ways to move, or exploring creative workshops, I’m excited to see where this year takes me.
What are you excited about in 2025? Let’s make it a year to remember!
