As the year draws to a close, many people rush into making New Year's resolutions. However, host Sidney Wheelan suggests that real change does not begin with a resolution, but with reflection. By looking honestly at the year behind us, we can gain the clarity needed to set intentional goals for the year ahead.

In this episode, Sidney introduces a simple three-part framework used in her legal practice and personal life to help you review your progress and plan for the future.

The Power of Reflection: Why we should look at what worked and what didn’t before setting new goals.

The "Build It, Protect It, Pass It On" Framework:

1. Build It: Identifying progress that isn't always visible on a balance sheet, such as resilience, relationships, or financial stability.
2. Protect It: Understanding that protection includes boundaries, rest, and legal safeguards, as well as identifying where you might feel exposed or vulnerable.
3. Pass It On: Considering how your current choices influence the legacy, values, and opportunities you leave for others.

Intentional Goal Setting: Transitioning from vague resolutions to better questions about what you want to build and protect more intentionally next year.

Values-Driven Planning: Moving away from fear-based planning toward thoughtful preparation that supports the life you are actively building.

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Until next time, grab your favorite latte, hold your loved ones tight, and have a great week! ☕

This podcast episode contains general information for discussion purposes only. Each case is different and must be judged on its own merits. Missouri rules generally prohibit lawyers from advertising that they specialize in particular areas of the law. This article should not be construed to suggest such specialization. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship, and the listening or viewing of this podcast does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.

In this episode of Law Days and Lattes, host Sidney Wheelan steps away from legal strategy and statutes to discuss the "why" behind the Wheelan Law Firm. This personal episode explores the heart of the legal profession: the human connection and the honor of standing with clients during their most difficult chapters.

• Beyond the Paperwork: Lawyers don’t just handle cases; they meet families and individuals facing unexpected loss, injury, and uncertainty.
• Clients as Family: Over time, clients often become friends and family, and their personal healing and peace of mind become the true fuel for the firm's work.
• The Definition of Success: True success is not measured by drafted documents or closed cases, but by a client being able to say they finally "slept better last night".
• A "Small World" Moment: Sidney shares a personal story of running into a client-turned-friend thousands of miles away while on vacation. This meeting served as a reminder of how much it matters to have someone in your corner when life feels unmanageable.
• The Steady Hand: Legal issues often arrive during chaos; a lawyer's role is to be the clear voice and the steady hand for those who are too exhausted to fight for themselves.
• Humanity First: While the law is the tool, humanity and compassion are the purpose behind protecting farms, guiding probate, or helping families through crisis.

The work of a lawyer stays with a person long after a case is finished, becoming a part of their healing process. We do this work because people and trust matter.

☕ Connect & Subscribe

Follow Law Days and Lattes on your favorite podcast platform for inspiring conversations about law, life, and finding joy in the journey.

Check out our Law Days & Lattes pages on Facebook and Instagram where you can join the conversation, share your thoughts, and ask questions

Until next time, grab your favorite latte, hold your loved ones tight, and have a great week! ☕

This podcast episode contains general information for discussion purposes only. Each case is different and must be judged on its own merits. Missouri rules generally prohibit lawyers from advertising that they specialize in particular areas of the law. This article should not be construed to suggest such specialization. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship, and the listening or viewing of this podcast does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.

Episode 74: The Generous Season — Lifting Each Other Up When Life Gets Heavy

In this episode, host Sidney Wheelan explores how to embrace the holiday spirit through compassion and connection. While the season is often a "whirlwind" of activity, it serves as a powerful reminder of the human need to be seen and supported, especially when carrying invisible burdens.

The Beautiful Chaos of the Holidays

• Sidney reflects on her love for Christmas and the "flurry" of traditions. She reminds us that while many appear to have everything under control, some are quietly struggling or exhausted. This year, we are invited to look beyond the surface and offer extra grace to those in our circle.

Generosity Beyond the Tree

• True holiday giving doesn't require a bow.
• Checking in on those who have been quiet.
• Listening without judgment or a "fix-it" plan.
• Bringing a meal to families navigating illness.
• Sharing your time with those who need company.

When Struggles Meet the Law

• Life’s challenges—medical crises, financial instability, or loss—don't pause for the holidays. If a loved one is facing legal hurdles like guardianship questions or financial uncertainty, the most generous act may be gently encouraging them to seek the right support and resources.

Creating Spaces for Hard Conversations

• Holiday gatherings offer quiet moments for real connection. You don’t have to solve every problem; simply offering a warm presence and reminding others they aren't alone is one of the season's greatest gifts.

If this message resonated with you, please share this episode on social media with friends and family. Remember, if you are struggling, you are not alone—there is a community ready to support you.

☕ Connect & Subscribe

Follow Law Days and Lattes on your favorite podcast platform for inspiring conversations about law, life, and finding joy in the journey.

Check out our Law Days & Lattes pages on Facebook and Instagram where you can join the conversation, share your thoughts, and ask questions

Until next time, grab your favorite latte, hold your loved ones tight, and have a great week! ☕

This podcast episode contains general information for discussion purposes only. Each case is different and must be judged on its own merits. Missouri rules generally prohibit lawyers from advertising that they specialize in particular areas of the law. This article should not be construed to suggest such specialization. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship, and the listening or viewing of this podcast does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.