Today, I’m celebrating a milestone that holds deep significance for me—my 51st birthday. Reflecting on the journey that brought me here, I feel a sense of freedom that’s hard to put into words. Not long ago, I was told by doctors that I probably wouldn’t see this day. The weight of that prediction followed me throughout my 50th year, but here I am. I’m 51, and the burden of their words has lifted. The freedom I feel now comes from proving them wrong and, more importantly, reclaiming my life for myself.

There’s something profoundly special about reaching this age. I no longer carry the fear that 51 would never come; instead, I’m embracing the possibilities that lie ahead. I’ve set my eyes on 100 now, and that’s not just a number—it’s a reflection of my commitment to living intentionally, with purpose, and in alignment with my goals.

In today’s blog, I’m sharing these goals with you. Why? Because putting them out there for the world to see adds a layer of accountability, transparency, and connection that motivates me to stay focused and grounded. I invite you to join me in setting your own goals because when we aim for something greater than ourselves, we give our minds and bodies the boost they need to thrive—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Here are the 10 goals I’ve set for myself as I step into this new chapter:

1. Deepen My Spiritual Awakening

This journey of healing from trauma has deepened my relationship with God, and I want to immerse myself even more in His word. I believe in the power of faith and divine purpose, and I’m committing to living in alignment with that purpose. It’s about tuning into God’s plan for me and staying rooted in His truth, no matter what the world throws my way.

2. Prioritize Total Body Wellness

For someone who has lived through decades of trauma, taking care of my body is essential. I’ve lost over 100 pounds, and while I’ve maintained my weight, I’ve noticed a decrease in strength and muscle mass. My goal is to rebuild that strength, improve my flexibility, and continue focusing on brain health. I’m committed to 20 minutes of daily exercise, stretching, and rebounding to keep my body and mind healthy and resilient.

3. Embrace Sustainability

This year, I ventured into gardening, and while I had some epic fails, I also had some great successes. I’m learning what works and what doesn’t, and I’m excited to keep growing my own food. I’m also adding fruit trees and berry bushes to my garden, aiming for more self-sustainability. There’s something deeply fulfilling about nurturing seeds into full-grown plants that can sustain me through the seasons.

4. Be Present and Embrace Simplicity

Life gets busy, and I’m guilty of always being on the go. But this year, I want to focus on being present, especially with my daughters and family. I want to spend more time in nature, take weekend trips, and just enjoy the simple beauty of life. My hope is to get a camper or RV and start exploring the incredible beauty of America, especially Ohio’s hidden gems.

5. Write and Publish My Book

I’ve been working on a book for years, but it was written from a place of pain. Now, I’m rewriting it with a heart of healing, clarity, and truth. I want my story to reflect hope, not victimhood, and to offer readers a perspective that encourages growth and understanding. My goal is to complete it over the next two years, and I can’t wait to share it with the world.

6. Build a Community of Support

When I found the brain injury community, it changed my life. It connected me with the resources I needed to heal, and I want to pay that forward. I’m building a community where people can find support as they heal from trauma and focus on total body wellness. We all need a safe space where we can feel heard, understood, and encouraged on our healing journeys.

7. Enhance My Environment by Unplugging

Technology is a double-edged sword, and while it connects us, it can also drain us. I’m committing to unplugging more, creating a peaceful environment free of the noise that distracts me from what really matters. This means disconnecting from social media, news, and even people who drain my energy, and surrounding myself with positivity and truth.

8. Simplify My Life

I’ve been on a mission to remove toxins from my life—whether it’s processed foods, chemicals, or even negativity. I’ve embraced holistic living, using natural products, avoiding medication unless absolutely necessary, and staying focused on wellness. Simplifying my life allows me to focus on what truly matters and helps me stay aligned with my well-being.

9. Create a New Stream of Income and Focus on Financial Wellness

As much as I love being a paramedic, it’s not something I see myself doing full-time for much longer. My goal is to create a sustainable, passion-driven income stream through my speaking engagements, writing, and coaching. I want to help others heal and live healthy lives while also ensuring my own financial wellness.

10. Be a Truth-Seeker Rooted in Faith

In a world where deception seems to be everywhere, I’m committed to being a truth-seeker. My faith grounds me, and I believe in standing firm in that faith, no matter the labels people might put on me. I’m here to live authentically, guided by God’s truth, and focused on living a life filled with peace, joy, and purpose.

A Final Thought

This year, I’m more excited than ever about what’s to come. I’ve set my eyes on 100, not because it’s just a number, but because I’m committed to living a life that’s rich in meaning, purpose, and joy. I hope you’ll come along on this journey with me—whether you’re setting your own goals or just finding inspiration in the stories I share.

Let’s embrace the possibilities that life holds, because no matter what, there’s always beauty, joy, and hope waiting to be found. Thank you for being a part of my journey. Here’s to 51 and beyond!

With gratitude,
Paula Walters
The Courageous Survivor