Out With the Old: With 2026 Nigh, Heres Some Wide-Ranging Intel on Managing Transitions

Published: Monday, December 29, 2025 at 12:03 pm

Navigating Transitions: Expert Insights for a New Year

As the year draws to a close, many Americans are reflecting on the past and setting goals for the future. The Associated Press spoke with experts from various fields to offer guidance on navigating these transitions, from personal well-being to financial planning and societal change.

Laura Olivares, a professional organizer, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging emotions tied to change. She suggests taking a moment to recognize feelings of loss or sadness associated with letting go of the past. Certified personal trainer Keri Harvey recommends building small, sustainable habits, such as scheduling tasks and setting realistic fitness goals.

R. Dale Hall, a managing director at the Society of Actuaries, highlights the need to balance planning with the acceptance of uncertainty. He advises separating holiday spending from financial goal-setting, suggesting that individuals enjoy the holidays and then focus on financial planning in January.

Personal finance educator Dana Miranda stresses the importance of individualized financial strategies, cautioning against a "one-size-fits-all" approach. She encourages people to make conscious spending and saving choices, and to consider the broader systemic and cultural impacts of financial decisions.

Political science professor Jeanne Theoharis emphasizes the value of learning from history. She points to the story of Rosa Parks as an example of taking a stand without knowing the outcome, and the importance of honestly addressing past injustices to move forward.

BNN's Perspective:

The insights from these experts offer a balanced perspective on approaching the new year. While planning and goal-setting are important, the emphasis on acknowledging emotions, building sustainable habits, and accepting uncertainty provides a realistic and adaptable framework for navigating change. The call to learn from history and consider broader societal impacts adds a layer of depth to the individual focus, encouraging a more holistic approach to personal and collective progress.

Keywords: transitions, new year, goals, planning, finance, fitness, organization, change, history, risk management, personal finance, financial planning, sustainable habits, Rosa Parks, societal change, emotional well-being

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