The In-Between

It is the first day of 2026. I am currently seated at a café, trying to work on my 2026 action plan. I call it an action planbecause the words vision board, goals, and resolutions have given me anxiety over the past few years. The idea of sitting down to plan out my entire life, instead of exciting me, actually did the opposite.

So I stopped writing them. I stopped doing vision boards altogether. I think there was a lack of belief in myself, a fear that I could not actually accomplish everything I set out to do.

Lately, though, I am realizing that fear is normal, especially when you have big dreams for yourself.

This year, I applied to medical school and, unlike most applicants, I submitted late. I partly blame myself for that. Writing has never come easily to me, and as someone who works full time, it was difficult to sit down and write multiple essays that felt like they could make or break my entire future.

I am starting the new year with my favorite breakfast, French toast, and zero interviews.

After spending months worrying about whether I will be accepted into medical school, I have made a quiet but important decision. I am choosing to let go of what is beyond my control and to live.

This new year, I choose to live while waiting. I still want to be a doctor. That dream has not changed. But a medical school acceptance will not determine my worth. I am worthy now, and I will be worthy in May, with or without an acceptance.