The new year is a chance to reflect not just on where you’ve been, but where you want to go

Stepping into a brand-new year marks a good time to pause and reflect. For us, life often feels like a non-stop rush of calls, shifts, and responsibilities. But the start of the year is a chance to breathe, reset, and think about where you are and where you want to go. Here are some questions to ask yourself to help guide your goals, intentions, and mindset in 2025.

1. Am I Taking Care of Myself Physically?

The job takes a toll on your body: Long hours, heavy gear, and the physical demands of firefighting can’t be ignored. Are you fueling your body with good nutrition? Getting enough sleep between shifts? Finding time for regular exercise to build strength and resilience? Your health is the foundation for everything you do on and off the job.

If your fitness routine has taken a backseat, start small. Could this be the year you commit to stretching before shifts or meal-prepping healthy options? Or maybe a 28-day fitness challenge will provide you with the structure and accountability you’re looking for. Your body will thank you for it.

2. How’s My Mental Health?

The fire service comes with unique mental and emotional challenges. Ask yourself: How am I really feeling? Do I have someone I can talk to about stress, tough calls, or life outside the firehouse?

Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you’re carrying too much on your shoulders, this might be the time to reach out – to a peer, a therapist, or a trusted friend. Strength comes in knowing when to ask for help.

3. Am I Spending Enough Time with Family and Friends?

Shift work can make it tough to balance home life. Have you missed moments you wish you hadn’t? It’s easy to get caught up in the grind, but relationships matter.

Consider ways to make meaningful connections, even in small ways. A quick text to check in, a family movie night, or a shared breakfast before your next shift can go a long way in keeping those bonds strong.

4. What’s One Skill I Want to Learn or Improve?

Firefighting is a career where learning never stops. Is there a new certification you’ve been eyeing or a skill you’d like to sharpen? Maybe it’s honing your technical rescue abilities, or perhaps you’re ready to take on a leadership role and want to build your management skills.

Learning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Set a goal and break it into actionable steps. You might surprise yourself with what you can achieve.

5. Am I Managing My Finances Wisely?

Money can be a tricky topic, but it’s worth examining. Are you planning for the future? Do you have savings for unexpected expenses? What about retirement?

If this isn’t an area you’ve thought much about, this could be the year to start. Sit down with a financial planner, explore budgeting apps, or set simple savings goals. Future you will thank present you for taking control.

6. What Brings Me Joy, and Am I Making Time for It?

Amidst the chaos of the job, it’s easy to lose sight of the things that light you up. Maybe it’s fishing, woodworking, traveling, or even just a good book. Whatever it is, are you carving out time for it?

Hobbies and downtime aren’t luxuries, they’re essential for recharging and finding balance. Don’t let the demands of the fire service rob you of the things that make life enjoyable.

7. How Am I Contributing to My Crew and Firehouse Culture?

A strong firehouse culture doesn’t happen by accident. Are you showing up for your crew as a team player? Do you contribute to a positive, supportive environment, or do you need to rethink your attitude?

The firehouse is like a second family, and the energy you bring impacts everyone. Commit to being the kind of firefighter and teammate you’d want by your side.

8. What’s One Goal I Want to Crush This Year?

Last but not least, ask yourself: What’s one thing I can commit to in 2025? It doesn’t have to be huge, just something meaningful that will leave you feeling proud by year’s end.

Whether it’s finally running that marathon, spending more time with loved ones, or getting certified in hazmat operations, having a clear goal can keep you motivated and focused.

Final Thoughts

The new year is an opportunity to pause and reflect not just on where you’ve been, but where you want to go. By taking a moment to check in with yourself, you’re investing in your health, happiness, and success both in and out of the firehouse.