A Year of Transformation and Resilience
As I sit down to reflect on 2024, I can’t help but marvel at how much my life has changed. The year began with my husband and me planning for the future browsing SUVs and imagining the family we might one day build together. But life had other plans, which started unfolding on March 21.
That evening, as we were getting ready for bed, my husband out of nowhere confessed that he had never loved me. We weren’t arguing, there was no tension, just a normal day turned upside down. We’d been together for nearly eight years, so this revelation hit like a freight train.
A week later, I went through his phone for the first time and discovered text messages with a married coworker he had known for just two months. Desperate for answers, I suggested couples therapy, but the experience only brought on more mental and emotional abuse. By late April, I’d lost 20 pounds from the stress, and on April 26, just days after our anniversaries, I filed for divorce.
The months that followed were a whirlwind. I hid out in a Houston hotel to process everything, moved back to my dad’s house with my dogs after a tornado struck, and faced the challenges of repairing my home while legally evicting my ex. Finally, on October 2, my divorce was finalized, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
In the midst of all this, I found new beginnings. I turned 30 in August, launched Sabby’s Sojourns in September, and started chasing a lifelong dream of modeling in November. These steps reminded me of my strength and resilience, showing me I’m capable of more than I ever imagined.
Looking Ahead: My Goals for 2025
I’m heading into 2025 with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement. Here’s my checklist to keep me on track:
1. Food Adventures
Visit 10 unique restaurants or food spots in new cities or countries.
Explore three new cuisines and write about the experience.
Collaborate with at least one chef, restaurant, or food brand for Sabby’s Sojourns.
Share recipes inspired by your travels and foodie experiences.
2. Travel Goals
Explore two international destinations and document the local food scene.
Visit at least five U.S. cities known for their culinary culture.
Plan a solo trip to immerse yourself in the food and culture of a place.
Capture and share more travel stories through photos and videos on the blog and Instagram.
3. Modeling Career
Book three professional photoshoots featuring travel or food themes.
Collaborate with brands or magazines focused on lifestyle, travel, or food.
Attend at least two networking events or workshops in the modeling industry.
Build a standout modeling portfolio that reflects your personal and blog branding.
4. Content Creation
Post monthly blog updates on Sabby’s Sojourns.
Grow your Instagram following by sharing consistent, high-quality travel and food content.
Experiment with short-form videos (Reels) showcasing behind-the-scenes moments from your shoots and travels.
Launch a mini-series on the blog or social media focused on hidden food gems or modeling journeys.
5. Partnerships & Growth
Collaborate with travel and food influencers or bloggers to expand your network.
Partner with a local or international tourism board to highlight their culinary experiences.
Secure at least two sponsored posts or partnerships related to food, travel, or lifestyle.
Attend an industry conference or expo to build connections and learn from professionals.
6. Personal & Professional Development
Take a photography or video editing course to enhance your content creation skills.
Research and invest in a high-quality camera or equipment for the blog.
Practice poses and techniques for modeling to keep improving your craft.
Stay consistent with journaling or planning to manage your time and ideas effectively.
7. Podcast Launch
Research equipment and software for creating high-quality episodes.
Choose a unique podcast theme that ties into your blog’s food, travel, and lifestyle focus.
Create a launch plan with at least three pre-recorded episodes by Spring 2025.
Collaborate with foodies, travelers, or industry experts as guest speakers.
Promote your podcast on your blog and social media platforms to build an audience.
2024 was a year of challenges but it also sparked growth and transformation. As I step into 2025, I’m determined to keep building the life I deserve one full of love, adventure, and purpose.
Here’s to turning pain into power and making 2025 my best year!
What are your goals for the new year? Let me know in the comments I’d love to hear them!
