Setting goals for 2026 is the norm, but I've found reflecting on the previous year can be just as much, if not more so, powerful than looking ahead. Here are 25 things I learned about myself this last year. No judgement :)

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On the Road

1. The hardest part of owning a large RV isn't the towing, cost, or repairs. It's backing it into a site.
2. Tools don't matter as much as process. It's better to create a flow with what I currently have than waste time looking for the next shiny thing.
3. Forcing ourselves to RV in one place longer—one month at a time—keeps us from burning out (and saves a TON of money).
4. ​Slow down. The best moments on the road happen when I'm not rushing to the next destination.
5. The worst case scenario for 99% of RV problems can be solved by the piece of plastic in my wallet.
6. I need 6 months of expenses (emergency fund) saved up for the piece of plastic to do its thing.
7. Arrive before dark. Nothing good happens trying to set up camp after sunset.

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Living Small

1. Boundaries bring freedom. Saying no to the wrong things creates space for the right ones.
2. Life has seasons. The hard part is knowing when you're entering or leaving one. What worked last year might not work this year. Pay attention to the shifts.
3. Boredom is a good thing.
4. If it's not a heck yes, it's a no.
5. Intentional decisions beat convenient decisions every time.
6. I can handle 3 big projects on a regular basis and 5 for a week or two. More than that and I start to get paralysis by analysis.
7. I don't have to be perfect. It's okay to fail at tiny experiments.

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Family on Wheels

1. Raising kids is hard. Period. Anyone who says otherwise is lying or forgot.
2. ​Raising resilient kids should be one of my top priorities.
3. Trips with just Marissa & I need to be more of a priority. Adventure bonds us.
4. Be present. If I'm with my kids, I'm with my kids (not with my phone). If I'm working. Work.
5. The value of experiences declines as I age. Spend money on experiences earlier in life. The return is higher.
6. Our family needs routine. Working out, school time, & work time need to be our morning routine 80% of the year.

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Money & Freedom

1. Consistent investing rarely loses. Time in the market beats timing the market.
2. We almost bought a house so we could invest in our future. Turns out a house is a poor investment right now.
3. Instead, we're pouring money into mutual funds and renting a fully furnished house if needed a month at a time (the math is better).
4. Money buys less as you age—not because of inflation, but because your body slows down.
5. ​Striver's curse is real. If I'm not careful, I'll keep chasing the next destination instead of enjoying where I am.

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Now Your Turn

What's one lesson from 2025 that's sticking with you? Reply and let me know. I read everything that comes through, and I'd love to hear yours.

‼️ Oh, and don't forget!

The Tampa Campout is one week away, but it's not too late to get some Florida sun, check out the largest RV show in the country, and meet friends!

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➡️ To sign up, head to tampacampout.com.

Until next time, see you down the road!

— Nathan

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