WWMD. What Would Michelangelo Do?

As we move into 2025, the mix of anticipation and uncertainty that defines the new year feels like a teeter-totter—half excitement, half doubt. I go between the thrill in wondering what’s to come to a lingering doubt about what the future holds. Maybe you’re thinking the same, wondering, “Will this be the year I reach my goals?” or “Is this the fresh start I’ve been waiting for?”

These questions bring to mind one of my favorite quotes from the famous painter/ sculptor Michelangelo. He said, "I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free."

While he most certainly could have meant his statement literally (he was an incredible artist, after all), it's widely accepted that he actually meant it metaphorically. He pointed to the conviction it takes to continue moving forward toward a goal when you can't see the outcome.

Perseverance Through the Dark

For many of us, when we can't see the outcome of a situation, whether personal growth, life  changes, or the pursuit of our goals, we tend to give up. Sure, it's easy to go into the new year resolute and committed, but after a few months of the same old, same old, we start losing our determination. The secret is learning how to persevere through the darkness of the unknown. But how do you keep your eyes on the prize when the original vision fades?

Goodbye to the Old

I believe the key to truly achieving all that you're meant to accomplish comes with shifting your focus. Becoming who you're meant to be isn't about adding more; it's about stripping away what no longer serves you. Think about what's holding you back or distracting you from being your true self. Just like the blocks of marble that Michelangelo masterfully turned into works of art, your true potential lies beneath the surface, just waiting to be uncovered.

It takes work to break through the stones of bad habits, discouragement, disappointment, and all the other factors that keep you from being the best version of yourself. It's rarely easy; sometimes, it even hurts, and more often than not, it takes longer than you expect. But the results are more than worth the wait. Training yourself to keep moving forward takes time. Developing a "won't-quit" attitude takes time. Learning to keep your focus takes time. The truth is, the best things in life almost always require patience and perseverance, with the lessons we learn along the way being just as precious as the goal itself.

The question is, what would you chisel away if you knew your masterpiece was inside you, waiting to be set free? What would you do if you knew you could achieve your goals and become the version of yourself you always dreamed of? While I won't pretend it will be easy or quick, I can tell you it will be worth it.

2025 can be the year everything changes, and you finally set your masterpiece free. It's Possible!