The hazy period between Christmas and New Year is a good time for reflection, looking back at the previous year and exploring possibilities for the new one. Experiences inevitably vary from person to person, but there are always shared themes that most of us can relate to. Let’s take look at some of the stand‑out stories of 2025, along with a glimpse into what we might expect from 2026.
Feeling the Pinch
For many, 2025 was defined by financial challenges: job security, mortgage rates, and the general cost of living combined to create a persistent sense of pressure. Many families have felt compelled to maintain the material expectations of their children, often driven by fear that they might be missing out. Familiar names continued to disappear from high streets, while large corporate brands appeared better equipped to weather the storm. Local councils frequently cited financial challenges, with the effects becoming increasingly visible. Few of us are without a story of the NHS struggling to meet expectations, despite the continued commitment of those working within it. Alongside this, working patterns have continued to shift, with hybrid and remote working now routine for many, blurring the lines between work and personal life. Financial experts may reassure us that it’s not all doom and gloom, but it’s clear that smarter approaches, tempered expectations, and a reassessment of what we really need are becoming unavoidable.
Culture and Entertainment
As someone who is woefully out of tune with the latest popular music these days, glancing at the biggest songs of the year usually results in a disinterested ‘Who?’ when the names are revealed. I had at least heard of Chappell Roan’s Pink Pony Club but Die With a Smile by Lady Gaga and Charlie Puth passed me by completely. The Oasis reunion does seem to have gone well, despite the flaky Liam Gallagher stating publicly on many occasions that he would never do it. Nostalgia continues to a big seller, allowing people to revisit times when life perhaps felt simpler, and less burdened by constant analysis.
When it comes to TV, I confess I’m not much better, and I’ve never watched The White Lotus which seemed to have a successful 3rd season. I was coerced into watching the final season of Stranger Things however and I must admit I found it entertaining. The Adolescence series, whilst not for the faint hearted, was highly compelling (and timely), and the young actor Owen Cooper is surely destined for great things. On the film front I really enjoyed James Gunn’s Superman (Coz I’m a punk rocker yes I am!) and Jurassic World Rebirth (the 7th instalment I think). As an Avatar virgin, the 3rd release also passed me by and with older kids, I had no need to watch Lilo and Stitch or Zootopia 2. 2026 is set to bring Christopher Nolan’s much-anticipated The Odyssey, Supergirl with Milly Alcock’s debut, Toy Story 5 (apparently there was a Toy Story 4) and Spider-Man: Brand New Day – of particular interest to fellow Glaswegians due to its familiar filming location.
Celebrity Farewells
Whilst personal loss always carries a greater weight, the loss of celebrities can also bring surprising sadness. 2025 saw the end of the road for Gene Hackman, Hulk Hogan and Diane Keaton – all key figures from my childhood and I’m sure for many others. Val Kilmer was a particular shock (only 65) and whilst I’ve still never seen Top Gun, Batman Forever was a personal favourite. From my perspective, Ozzy Osbourne brought the most surprising impact, having never being a fan of Black Sabbath or reality TV. The response from his fans was intense and he was undoubtedly a pioneer in rock and metal music.
Global Affairs
As the war between Russia and Ukraine continued, it’s hard to believe that almost four years have passed since the initial invasion. For many it remains an unresolved backdrop to international life, moving from breaking news to background presence. Imminent resolution seems unlikely, with further attacks over the holiday period and both leaders offering conflicting information during their Christmas addresses. President Trump began his second term at the start of 2025 and his unique approach to leadership and international diplomacy continues to cause disruption around the world. In June he approved multiple strikes against Iran due to perceived nuclear aggression. It remains unclear if the desired effect was achieved, however the region remains highly unstable, not least due to the ongoing Gaza-Israel and Israeli-Palestinian conflicts. 2025 also saw the appointment of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope.
The Impact of Social Media
Love them or hate them, these platforms are still going strong and people of all ages are irretrievably hooked and have likely spent a frightening percentage of 2025 scrolling into the abyss. You might still be wondering why your kids were randomly shouting ‘Chicken Jockey’ or descending into hysterics when the numbers 6 and 7 were said in succession (don’t ask me). The effects of social media on teenagers (and younger kids) remain undetermined but it is hard to argue with suggested links to neurological disorders. As of 2025, 1 in 100 children have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with many more thought to be undiagnosed. To say things are tough for parents living with affected children is a huge understatement and suitable support is often in short supply. In December, Australia imposed a ban on social media for kids under 16 with schools having to adapt their practices to accommodate. The rest of the world will be watching closely as they decide whether or not to follow suit.
Looking Ahead
2026 will likely be a tumultuous year for UK politics with the local elections taking place in May. General dissatisfaction across the board seems to be the underlying message with rising parties such as Reform UK looking to take advantage. Whilst this is not the place to express an opinion, we should try and base our actions on evidence and not take everything we hear at face value. Education should remain a primary focus and whilst neurological challenges in children are being discussed with greater urgency, clear solutions have yet to be found.
Scotland’s qualification for the World Cup means the Tartan Army will be travelling west, with some perhaps trying to reconnect with long lost acquaintances in Boston in order to secure some free digs. Whatever the outcome, the occasion is certain to bring joy to football fans and others alike as Scottish patriotism is amongst the most powerful in the world.
The power of AI is only going to grow and must be used as an assistive technology rather than merely populating our social media feeds with endless fodder. Such examples will no doubt continue, but children and adults alike must be educated on how to use it for substantial applications across work, creativity, and problem-solving, otherwise they will be placed at a disadvantage.
So as we face the inevitable return to the norm, shaking off thoughts of becoming an influencer or being blessed with a lottery win, perhaps our collective new year resolution should be to scale things down a tad. Maybe reconnect with simple pleasures such as going for a walk or reading a book. There’s likely more austerity to come, but keep in mind perspectives and remember that life can only ever be what you make of it, despite everything that’s being thrown at us.
Thomas McGlone 
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