A First-Gen Latina’s Guide to Stepping into Power in 2025

This time of year often brings a lot of pressure. Between endless familia gatherings, there’s the challenge of setting boundaries, whether it’s about ‘y el novio’ or avoiding the push to reinvent yourself as the new year begins. I know what it’s like to feel the weight of expectations during this season. I’ve been at the sala answering the same questions year after year, feeling like I had to justify my choices or prove I was on the right path. But one day, I realized something important: I didn’t need to prove my worth to anyone. The pressures feel heavier than ever with rising costs of living, uncertainties in healthcare, and the lingering effects of the election. But what if I told you that you are already enough? You have everything you need within you to succeed, and 2025 is the year that first-gen Latinas step into their power. In addition to being strong and resilient, we are confident, adaptable, resourceful, and hardworking.

But it’s hard to feel empowered or motivated when you’re overwhelmed by everything happening around you. Pause, reflect, and remember: you’ve faced uncertainty before, and you’ve not just survived, you’ve thrived. So let’s approach 2025 with intentionality and clarity. You are enough, you are powerful, and you are ready to create real change. Here’s your mini-guide for stepping into 2025 with your full power:

Ponte las pilas (Get energized and take action)

Reflect on how much of a chingona you are. Recognize your power. Write down everything you bring to the table. Adaptable? Check. Resourceful? Check. Unstoppable? Absolutely. Keep this list handy for those harder days when you need a reminder. If you’re feeling stuck, ask loved ones for input. Still stuck? Write about the version of yourself you aspire to be and tap into her courage when taking a risk. You’ve already proven you can adapt to anything life throws your way. Now it’s time to believe in yourself as much as the world believes in you.

Si no luchas, no ganas (If you don’t fight, you don’t win)

In 2025, it’s more important than ever to focus on the issues you care about most. My motto has always been that we can be strong advocates for one cause while being great allies for others. What cause do you feel most strongly about? Maybe it’s healthcare access, financial literacy, or educational equity. Educate yourself, and then make it your mission to inform others. For me, it’s destigmatizing mental health in the Latinx community. I’ll talk about terapia to anyone who’ll listen, even if we just met. Find your cause, become the advocate you needed growing up, and remind yourself that even small efforts can create big change.

Cuida los centavos, y los pesos se cuidan solos (Take care of the small things to build big success)

Inflation is real, and finances can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to. This is the year to turn financial stress into empowerment. Take control of your money and make it work for you in the long term. Educate yourself on budgeting, saving, and investing. Maybe it’s listening to a podcast on your commute, starting with a small savings goal, or finally learning about investing. Remember, small steps add up. You deserve to feel in control of your financial future and set the foundation for generational wealth.

No puedes dar lo que no tienes (You can’t give what you don’t have)

2025 is the year we stop feeling guilty for caring for our mental health. To care for others, we must care for ourselves first. What routines do you need to put in place to make this happen? Maybe it’s giving yourself permission to take that Sunday nap, skipping the extra cafecito invitation, or finally calling that terapista you’ve been meaning to reach out to. Therapy, movement, or moments of stillness. Choose what works for you. The more you care for yourself, the more you can show up fully for the people and causes you care about.

You have everything it takes to navigate the unknowns of 2025. Make the list. Set the boundaries. Fight for what matters. The power is already in you, and it’s time to let it shine. This is your year to step into your fuerza and channel it into a life you love.