2025 is the Year of the Snake. 2026? The Year of the Fire Horse.

If you're familiar about Chinese zodiac symbolism, you know what that means: the Snake sheds what no longer fits. The Fire Horse charges forward with unstoppable momentum.

But here's the thing: you can't ride the Fire Horse into 2026 while still carrying 2025's dead weight.

This episode is about what needs to be shed now, before the year turns.

IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE:

The symbolism of Snake and Fire Horse years: and what they're asking of us right now.
What a death cycle actually looks like (from someone living it): why you can't 'positive mindset' your way through and what to do instead.
The difference between shedding and suppressing: one creates space for growth, the other just buries what will resurface later.
A December ritual for intentional release: specific steps you can take this month to shed what's keeping you small, stuck, or performing.
Why 'not enough', shame, and old survival strategies have to go: and what becomes possible when you finally release them.
The gift of radical permission: why The Selfish Year is the book to give yourself (or someone you love) this holiday season.
What's coming in 2026: a hint at something I'm creating for women ready to make next year their Selfish Year

IF YOU'RE FEELING:

The tightness of an old identity that doesn't fit anymore
Exhausted by maintaining 'impressive'
Ready to stop carrying what's dead
Curious about what 2026 could look like if you actually chose yourself

....this episode is for you.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Read the full essay: What a Death Cycle Actually Looks Like (from someone living it)

Get the book: The Selfish Year - perfect for gifting yourself and your friends permission this Christmas

Choose your 2026 word: Are you claiming SELFISH as your guiding intention for next year? Let me know!

SOMETHING'S COMING:

I'm gathering women who are ready to make 2026 their Selfish Year. A community....a container...a place where choosing yourself isn't rebellion, it's a homecoming.

I can't share all the details yet, but if you're feeling the pull toward radical selfishness - stay close.

CONNECT WITH VALERIE:

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YOUR DECEMBER PRACTICE:

This month, ask yourself every morning:

What am I carrying that's already dead?
What old skin am I ready to shed?
What wants to emerge in 2026?

Then do one small thing - sage, movement, journaling, walking - to physically release it.

SHARE THIS EPISODE:

Know someone who needs permission to shed what's no longer serving them? Send them this episode. Sometimes the most generous thing we can do is name what's true.

RATE & REVIEW:

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