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Twenty twenty-five - a year that was both the most challenging and the most extraordinary chapter of my life.

Let me share why I described it that way. As Steve Jobs famously said, "You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards."

Kehinde Temitope Odutayo

1/26/20261 min read

a piece of brown paper with a white background

Twenty twenty-five - a year that was both the most challenging and the most extraordinary chapter of my life.

Let me share why I described it that way. As Steve Jobs famously said, "You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards."

Making life-altering decisions while trying to see the bigger picture is nearly impossible. But when I look back months or even years later, I can see how every dot connected. Trusting that the dots will align in the future is what carried me through.

Last year, I set countless goals. Many remained unachieved, but countless unwritten aspirations came true.

That little voice inside often nudges us to evaluate our career, life, finances, and fitness goals. When it does, act on it. Much of what causes stress is actually already accomplished. You're just not seeing it because your focus is elsewhere.

Reflecting on 2025, despite its setbacks, I realized it was one of the best years of my life. Here’s what made it special:

- I traveled to more countries than ever before, passing through nine in total.
- Took 11 international flights and embarked on four cross-country road trips.
- Worked with talented creatives, conservatives, and artists in two francophone West African countries.
- Contributed to three international projects that boosted my career.
- Invested more in Pro Tools and professional gear.
- Mentored by industry leaders, reaching thousands of people with my work.
- Earned my first career award, that justified years of practice and growth.
- Won my first prize money.
- Achieved a first-class honours degree from the University of Ibadan.

Sometimes, we overlook the small wins because we’re fixated on long-term goals, which can breed unhappiness and feelings of failure.

So, I urge you to look back at what you accomplished last year. Despite the hurdles, you made incredible progress.

Remember, you can only connect the dots when looking backwards.

Happy 2026! Stay hungry. Stay foolish!