Permission granted to choose you.

As we wrap up the year at Lotus Network, we’ve been thinking about all the choices we make as women. Dozens each day—mostly for others. But there’s one choice that often gets skipped:
Choosing “me.”

Somehow, we’ve been taught that putting ourselves on our own list is selfish. But really, it’s the most generous thing we can do. When we give ourselves even a short pause, everyone in our orbit benefits. We show up with more patience, more joy, and a little more room to breathe.

This month, we’ve seen women lean into curiosity and say “yes” to themselves in small but meaningful ways—signing up for something new, stepping into a room where they didn’t know anyone yet, exploring fresh interests, or simply giving themselves permission to pause. Little choices, but powerful ones. And yes—trusting that the mile-long to-do list would survive without them for an hour or two.

And in January, many are already choosing themselves by registering for programs like our new Game On, Girls! Mahjong offerings. Even the act of signing up is a quiet declaration: I matter, too.

There’s a line we’ve been holding close:
“If you don’t put yourself on your own list, the world will gladly fill it for you.”

And isn’t that the truth?

We’ve learned this the hard way ourselves. Every time we choose to rest, connect, laugh, or simply breathe, Lotus Network gets a better version of us. Our families do too. Choosing ourselves isn’t indulgent—it’s sustaining.

Here’s something else we believe:
Every woman who prioritizes herself gives quiet permission for another woman to do the same. And that ripple effect sits at the heart of Lotus Network’s mission: empowering women through connection, support, and purpose.

So as we look toward 2026, we hope you’ll join us in making one simple promise:
Put “me” back on the list.

Maybe that means finally trying something you’ve been curious about.

Maybe it’s coffee with a friend.

Taking the hike you’ve been thinking about.

Scheduling that annual appointment, you keep moving to “next week.”

Or carving out one hour—just one—to refuel.

Whatever it looks like for you, may 2026 be the year you choose yourself with a little more tenderness, a little more curiosity, and a lot less guilt.

Thank you for being part of this beautiful community of women who lift one another up and remind each other that it’s never too late to make life fuller and more meaningful.

With gratitude,

Lisa Cook and Leslie Heins
Co-Founders, Lotus Network