This morning, as the crisp January air greeted the shores of Seabrook Island, SC, I joined my Turtle Patrol teammates for a tradition I'd never attempted before: the polar bear plunge. That's right—I ran into the Atlantic Ocean on New Year's Day. For the first time. On purpose.

Why would a sane person dive into frigid waters when there are perfectly warm blankets at home? For me, it was an irresistible trifecta: fun, adventure, and a fabulous photo op. But deeper down (past the goosebumps), it symbolized something greater—breaking out of my comfort zone and stepping boldly into a year of new habits and healthier choices.

This morning’s plunge wasn’t just a crazy stunt—it was a promise to myself to start early, to shake up my routines, and to remind myself that small steps can lead to transformative change.

Here’s the thing: goals don’t need to be grandiose or overwhelming. They just need to be yours and taken one manageable day at a time. Maybe your goal is to exercise three times a week, read one book a month, or say “yes” to something new and slightly terrifying (like jumping into a freezing ocean).

So, as we dive into 2025 together, ask yourself:

  • What’s one thing you can start today to shift toward a healthier, more adventurous you?
  • What comfort zone needs a little shaking up?

You don’t need to do it all. Just set a few doable goals and focus on what really matters. Then take the plunge—figuratively or literally—and let each small step ripple into a year of growth, adventure, and joy.

Here’s to braving the waves, big or small, in 2025!

Elaine Morris
Executive coach and positive intelligence expert

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Elaine Morris is a master-level emotional intelligence and executive coach who brings more than 30 years of experience to upper level executives and their teams.

Elaine Morris