Your Friday Five

Have you ever read a book and a line or a paragraph speaks to you so deeply, that it almost takes your breath away? Well that is what happened to me two days ago when I started reading the book Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts by Oliver Burkeman:

"The challenge, then, is simple, though for many of us also excruciating: What's one thing you could do today - or tomorrow at the latest, if you're reading this at night that would constitute - a good - enough use of a chunk of your finite time, and that you would actually be willing to do? (Don't get distracted wondering what might be the best thing to do: that superyacht thinking, borne of the desire to feel certain you're on the right path.)  Because the irony, of course, is that just doing something once today, just stearing your kayak over the next few inches of water, is the only way you'll ever become the kind of person who does that sort of thing on a regular basis anyway. Otherwise - and believe me, I've been there - you're merely the kind of person who spends your life drawing up plans for how you're going to become a different kind of person later on. This will sometimes garner you the admiration of others, since it can look from the outside like you're busy making improvements. But it isn't the same at all.

So you just do the thing once, with absolutely no guarantee you'll ever manage to do it again. ut then perhaps you find that you do do it again, the next day, or a few days later, and maybe again and again - until before you know it, you've developed that most remarkable thing, not a willpower driven system or routine but an emergent practice of writing or meditating or listening to your kids, or building a business. Something you do not solely do to become a better sort of person, though it may have that effect too - but because whatever you're bringing into reality right here on the rapids is worth bringing into reality for itself."

You can purchase this mind bending (in a great way) book here. 

I believe this book will help set us all up for a productive AND joy-filled 2025.

Both of these quotes share a common theme of accountability and action. As I work to develop habits that bring out the best in me, I keep returning to these two powerful reminders:

• "You are free to do whatever you like. You need only face the consequences." – Sheldon B. Kopp
• "You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems." – James Clear

This year, I’m focused on getting my systems in place. And when I’m tempted to make the "wrong" choice, I’ll ask myself: "What would the 70-year-old Petra want me to do in this moment?"

I am truly looking forward to 2025. After spending 10 wonderful days at my sister's in Florida, where we walked the Labyrinth almost daily, I feel both excited and energized to create a year that my future self will be proud of. Here are a few things I’m working on for 2025:

1. My Second Book
   I started this morning! What began as a plan to write for 15 minutes turned into a full hour of focused creativity. I’ll be reaching out later for stories and suggestions, and I’d love to know if you have anyone I should interview.

2. A Weekly "Friday 5" Newsletter
   I’ll be sending out my newsletter each Friday. Eventually, I may tie this into a blog, but for now, I’ll keep it simple. If you enjoy this format, I’ll stick with it.

3. A Weekly Podcast
   Starting next week, I’m committing to a consistent, weekly podcast designed to be listened to while walking. Each episode will include reflection questions accompanied by music to give you space for a heart-to-heart conversation with yourself.

4. DJ’ing
   Yes, DJ’ing! After hosting a V.I.P. party for over 500 people at the CanFitPro Convention in 2019 and playing weekly on a hotel rooftop before COVID, I let this passion slide. I love music and mixing, so I’m in the process of purchasing new equipment. Once I’ve found my rhythm again, I’ll share some DJ mixes with you.

5. Upleveling My Speaking Business
   I’m working on taking my speaking to the next level with the help of an incredibly talented coach. This year, I’m focusing on making my speaking business a serious part of my work.

6. Continuing to Build Community Online and In Person
   I’m thrilled to expand The Catalyst Community. The Founding Members have shared so many inspiring ideas, and I’m excited to implement them and grow this space in 2025. I also recognize the value of in-person events and experiences, so you can expect to see more live events from me this year.

7. Teaching Cardio Dance at Equinox
   Starting next week, I’ll be teaching a weekly Cardio Dance class at Equinox in South Bay, CA. If you’re in the area and would like to join as my guest, just reach out. This is purely for the joy of movement and an opportunity to be back in a studio without the pressure of it being my “job.”

What would you be willing to risk in 2025 to feel fully alive? Reply to the original email and let me know.