Breaking the Surface: A Glimpse at 2025

2025 is here, and my 50 by 50 journey is officially underway. This first phase, which I’ve titled Breaking the Surface, is about building momentum and establishing a foundation for success. Let me share what I’ve planned for the next 365 days.

Starting something new is never easy—whether it’s forming habits, exploring hobbies, or embarking on big journeys. I often feel a little silly when trying something unfamiliar, but that awkwardness is part of the process, and it’s okay. Growth begins when we step out of our comfort zones.

To organize my plans for 2025, I’ve divided my goals into categories: short-term, ongoing, and yearly. Each represents an important piece of the puzzle, helping me evolve into the person I want to become.

Short-Term Goals: These are goals designed to be completed within a year.

Quarter 1:

1. CPR/First Aid Certification and EMT-B Recertification

Emergency medicine is more than a career to me—it’s a calling. I spent over a decade as a firefighter paramedic, responding to emergencies and helping people on some of their worst days. Later, I worked in the ER and even served as a tactical medic for a SWAT team. Those experiences taught me resilience, teamwork, and the value of staying calm under pressure.

When I medically retired from the fire service in 2016, I thought that chapter of my life had closed. Losing my paramedic certification in 2017 felt like letting go of an important piece of myself. But now, I’m ready to reconnect with that world, not by returning to the field full-time but by staying involved.

To recertify as an EMT-Basic, I need 40 hours of Continuing Medical Education (CME) and must pass the National EMT test. I’ve already taken some practice exams and was relieved to see I still have what it takes. The thought of returning to the classroom is both exciting and humbling—it’s been years since I sat for a test, but I’m ready for the challenge.

2. SCUBA Refresher and Prescription Goggles

Some of my fondest memories are tied to water—whether it’s swimming as a kid, snorkeling on vacation, or getting my Open Water SCUBA certification in 2003. However, life has a way of pulling us away from the things we love, and I haven’t been diving in over two decades.

One of my 50 by 50 goals is to dive with great white sharks. But first, I need to get comfortable underwater again. I’ve signed up for a refresher course, which will not only reteach me the technical skills but also help me regain confidence.

One unexpected challenge? My vision. Contact lenses don’t work well for me underwater, so I’ve been researching prescription diving masks. It’s a small detail, but it’s a reminder of how much thought and preparation even the smallest goal can require. By February, I hope to be back in the water, goggles on, ready to dive into this passion once again.

Quarter 1 will be packed with studying and testing, but I’m looking forward to the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing these goals.

Quarter 2 and Yearly Goals:

Learn Conversational Spanish and Deepen Relationships Through an Immersive Trip to Mexico

Language has always fascinated me, but I’ve never taken the time to truly master one. Like many of you, I took Spanish in high school and college, but my skills have mostly faded. This year, I’m changing that. Using Babbel, I’ve been practicing 15 minutes a day, four times a week. It’s a manageable commitment, and I’m already starting to see progress.

In June, I’ll put my skills to the test with an immersive trip to Mexico. This trip is more than a language exercise—it’s a family celebration. My mother turns 70 this year, and we’re marking the occasion with a memorable vacation. For me, this trip represents so much: the joy of learning, the importance of family, and the adventure of stepping outside my comfort zone.

Quarter 3:

1. Complete the SSI Diver Stress and Rescue Course

After completing my SCUBA refresher, the next step is the SSI Diver Stress and Rescue course. This training combines my love for diving with my background in emergency medicine. It will teach me how to recognize and assist distressed divers—a skill that could one day save a life.

I remember the first time I felt panic underwater. It was during a dive where the visibility was poor, and I lost sight of my dive buddy. That brief moment of fear taught me the importance of staying calm and prepared. This course will help me not only protect myself but also support others in stressful situations.

2. Commit to a 30-Day Fitness Challenge

My top goal for 2025 is to eliminate my CPAP machine. For years, I’ve relied on it to manage sleep apnea, but I know improving my health is the key to leaving it behind. My doctors have set clear targets: a BMI below 32 and a weight of 215 lbs.

To stay on track, I’m planning a 30-day fitness challenge in Quarter 3. This program will focus on fat loss and building lean muscle. I’ve already started incorporating daily walks and resistance training into my routine. The thought of sleeping soundly without the hum of the CPAP machine keeps me motivated.

3. Attend a Retreat on Healthy Intimacy

In 2024, I made significant progress in mental and emotional health. Therapy has been transformative, helping me open up in ways I never thought possible. One area I want to explore further in 2025 is intimacy—not just physical but emotional connection built on trust, love, and respect.

Healthy intimacy is about vulnerability, something I’ve struggled with in the past. By attending a week-long retreat, I hope to learn new ways to build deeper, more meaningful relationships.

Quarter 4:

1. Build Endurance for Back-to-Back 10-Mile Hikes

One of my ultimate goals is to hike to Mount Everest's base camp. The trek involves walking 5–10 miles a day for eight days, a feat that feels daunting given my current fitness level.

I still remember the pain of struggling to walk a mile without shin discomfort. Slowly but surely, I’m making progress. Building endurance for back-to-back 10-mile hikes will be a major milestone, and I plan to celebrate every step along the way.

2. Reach 215 lbs. and Get Off the CPAP Machine

These goals go hand in hand. My primary care doctor believes that once I reach 215 lbs. and lower my body fat, I’ll no longer need the CPAP machine. It’s not just about weight loss—it’s about reclaiming my health and energy.

Ongoing Goals: These are goals designed to be maintained until November 2028.

1. Learn Photography to Document Key Journeys

Photography has become my creative outlet. Whether it’s capturing landscapes, family moments, or candid shots, I’m learning to see the world differently through a lens. By 2028, I hope to hold a photography exhibit showcasing the best moments of this journey.

Final Thoughts

2025 is a year of preparation and action. From certifications to adventures, I’m setting the stage for my 50 by 50 journey. It won’t always be easy, but I’m ready to embrace the challenges and grow along the way.

Here’s to breaking the surface and diving into a year of growth, adventure, and purpose.