New Year Reflections: Learning, Pivoting, and Trusting the Process

It’s incredible how fast time flies. As I look back on this past year, I can truly say I learned a lot—about business, about myself, and about what it really means to build something from the ground up.

I improved my candle making, learned what sells in my region and what doesn’t, and began to understand where I want to focus my energy. I’m still learning how to pivot without losing sight of my brand, and that balance hasn’t always been easy. I haven’t defined all my signature scents yet because, truthfully, I’m not in love with every single one. Even so, the feedback from customers has been encouraging—many tell me they love my fragrance names and connect with the stories behind them.

This year, I also learned how to make body butters, massage oils, and other products. I’m still testing what I want to truly dedicate my time to, because candle making remains deeply therapeutic for me. It grounds me. It brings me peace. It reminds me why I started.

I have not arrived.
I get frustrated.
My anxiety is real.
But I also revel in the final product. I take pride in creating something beautiful, intentional, and meaningful.

I’ve also learned how to block critics and haters—professionally and without losing my softness. That in itself has been growth.

This month is about goal setting, reaching milestones, and increasing revenue. Whether that happens through wholesale, private label, adding my candles in other storefronts, or something new—I’m still discerning. Comadres Live was paused. The interviews were paused. And that’s okay. Sometimes pausing is part of the process.

Right now, I’m being pensive. I’m praying. I’m pondering next steps. I’m listening. I’m preparing to actualize this desire I have to make Bodega Blooms succeed—not just as a business, but as a legacy.

I’m still here.
Still learning.
Still building.
Still believing.

And that, in itself, is worth honoring.