On December 24, 2024, I lost consciousness while driving. I crashed my car. I saw death.

I survived—miraculously by the will of Allah.

Then I did what most of us would do: I moved on. At the time, I thought I only had minor harm, and no one else was involved in the accident (-thank God!) so why bother others? I’m fine, right?

Throughout 2025, I kept delivering, performing, and pushing forward. Keeping afloat as a daughter, wife, and colleague.

What I didn’t realize was that my body and mind were still holding the trauma. I functioned—until I couldn’t.

Here’s the lesson I’m taking into 2026:

👉 Taking care of yourself is not a luxury. It’s a responsibility.

Both mental and physical health are the foundation of sustainable performance.

Ignoring it doesn’t make you resilient; it only delays the cost.

I was once told by one of my managers at the American Red Cross that you can’t take care of others if you don’t take care of yourself first. At that time, I didn’t fully grasp it. Now, I do.

So in 2026, my commitment is simple:
👉 Listen more to my soul
👉 Rest without guilt
👉 Set boundaries without apology

If you’re entering this new year exhausted but telling yourself you’re “fine,” consider this your reminder: survival is not the goal. Living is.

Grateful to be here. Alhamdulillah.