GRATITUDE, GRIT, AND GOALS: A Blueprint for 2025

GRATITUDE, GRIT, AND GOALS: A Blueprint for 2025
Sprinkled with Purpose, Intention, and a Dash of Humor

As we gear up for 2025, there's something in the air—something fresh, hopeful, and full of possibilities. It's that perfect time to reflect, dream big, and set some goals… ideally with a strong cup of coffee in hand. 🎉

In a recent The Risers Hub Podcast episode, Nia Akins gave us all a masterclass in navigating life with gratitude, grit, and grace. Her story of Olympic dreams, unexpected challenges, and a purposeful mindset is a reminder that achieving big things starts with small, intentional steps.

Reflecting on the Journey: The Highlight Reel

Nia’s 2024? Oh, just casually making the Olympic team. 🎯 No biggie, right? (Okay, it’s huge.) Celebrating this milestone with family and soaking in Europe’s beauty afterward made it all the sweeter.

But here’s the kicker: Nia didn’t stop there. She shared how relocating to Philadelphia for training—a move wrapped in uncertainty—turned out to be a surprising blessing.

• Lesson #1: Life’s surprises are often blessings in disguise.
• Whether you’re moving cities, pivoting careers, or finally tackling that long-overdue closet cleanout, the unknown can lead to unexpected growth.

When Goals Go Rogue: Adjusting with Grace

In 2024, Nia planned to release an album. Life, being the trickster it is, said, “Hold that thought.” Her music project got bumped into 2025, but instead of frustration, she leaned into faith.

Her words? "The songs are just going to be different than what I thought."

• Lesson #2: Sometimes, life reschedules your goals.
• And honestly? That’s okay. Goals with purpose are timeless, and sometimes delays lead to something even better.

Gratitude: The All-Season MVP

Nia’s gratitude isn’t reserved for sunny days. She’s mastered the art of finding it even when life gets stormy.

In her words: "Gratitude feels deeper in tough seasons." For her, faith is the anchor, reminding her that every moment—whether filled with joy or challenges—serves a purpose.

• Lesson #3: Gratitude is a mindset, not just a mood.
• Celebrate the small wins.
• Embrace the hard stuff—it’s shaping you.

Goals for 2025: Your Game Plan

Here are Nia-inspired tips for crushing 2025 with intention:

1. Celebrate Progress
• Big wins? Yes.
• Tiny, did-it-before-coffee wins? Also yes.
2. Adapt with Faith
• Life’s plot twists aren’t failures; they’re edits to your masterpiece.
3. Embrace the Challenge
• Growth lives in the discomfort zone.
4. Stay Rooted in Purpose
• Make goals that light up your soul—not just your to-do list.

Your Turn!

2025 is calling, and it’s asking:

• What are your goals for the year?
• How will you infuse them with gratitude and purpose?

Let us know in the comments! Share your story, and let’s make this space a hub of encouragement and inspiration.

Hey Risers!
Ask them to set one micro-goal right now and share it in the comments! For example:
"In 2025, I want to write one journal entry every month filled with gratitude. What’s your micro-goal? Drop it below!"

Nia Akins is a 3 X US Champion and 2024 US Olympian. Akins is the University of Pennsylvania's record holder for the women's 800m in both the indoor and outdoor events: