As the calendar turns and we step into a new year, it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions—excitement, anticipation, and maybe even a little uncertainty. What will this year bring? Can I reach my goals? How will I handle the challenges that are bound to come my way?
Through my journey, I’ve discovered that no matter what lies ahead, approaching life with Vision, Mindset, and Grit is the key to staying grounded, focused, and resilient. These three principles aren’t just words I share from a stage—they’re the foundation of how I live my life, especially in moments when the path forward seemed impossible.

Vision: See Beyond the Horizon
Vision is about creating a clear picture of where you want to go, even when the road ahead feels uncertain. After my accident, I couldn’t let myself dwell on the enormity of learning to live with paralysis. Instead, I started small—I envisioned myself moving a single finger. That small vision became my foundation, and I built from there, one step at a time.
What do you see for yourself this year? Don’t limit yourself to what feels realistic—focus on what truly matters to you. Whether it’s a personal milestone, a professional achievement, or nurturing a relationship, having a vision gives you direction. It’s your North Star, a reminder of what you’re working toward, even on the hard days.
Mindset: Prepare for the Journey
Your mindset determines your ability to turn that vision into reality. It’s about adaptability, positivity, and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. I’ve learned that while I can’t control everything, I can control how I respond—and that makes all the difference.
This year, take ownership of your mindset. When life doesn’t go as planned (and trust me, it won’t always), pause and ask yourself: What can I learn from this? How can I move forward? A strong mindset doesn’t eliminate obstacles, but it equips you with the tools to face them with confidence.
Grit: Commit to the Process
Grit is where the magic happens. It’s about perseverance, showing up day after day, even when the road gets tough. Grit got me out of my hospital bed, into a wheelchair, and eventually onto stages around the world. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being persistent.
As you tackle the year ahead, remember that success isn’t instant. It’s built through consistent effort, one small step at a time. Grit means embracing the process, trusting that every setback is an opportunity to learn, and staying committed—even when progress feels slow.
Your Year, Your Story
As you step into this new year, ask yourself:
- What’s my Vision?
- What Mindset will I bring to the table?
- How will I show Grit when things get tough?
These aren’t just abstract questions—they’re the foundation of the life you’ll build in 2025. Wherever you’re starting from, know this: You have the power to create change.
This year is your blank page, waiting for you to write your story. With Vision, Mindset, and Grit as your guide, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.
Here’s to a year of purpose, progress, and perseverance. Let’s make it extraordinary.
