In a poignant reflection on her journey from war-torn Syria to the global stage, filmmaker Waad al-Kateab shares how her message of hope has evolved in the wake of significant political changes. Speaking shortly after the government's fall, she emphasized the importance of her advocacy for human rights and the plight of her people. Al-Kateab, now residing in the UK with her family, continues to champion humanitarian causes through her work and campaigns. Her efforts have resonated deeply, becoming a symbol of resilience and dignity for Syrians and oppressed individuals worldwide. Despite the challenges, her vision remains steadfast: a future where freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights prevail.

Al-Kateab vividly recalls the dark period when she attended an international event adorned not with luxury jewelry but with a simple yet powerful pin badge that read "Stop bombing hospitals." This stark contrast highlighted the urgency of the situation in Syria, particularly in Idlib, the last rebel stronghold. While other attendees sparkled with diamonds, she chose to shine a light on the ongoing atrocities. At a time when some nations were considering normalizing relations with Assad, disregarding the suffering of civilians, al-Kateab felt it was crucial to remind the world of the ongoing struggle. "We dared to dream," she emphasizes, explaining that this act became a rallying cry for those who still held onto hope for a better future.

The impact of her gesture exceeded expectations. The image went viral on social media and garnered attention from both news outlets and fashion magazines, amplifying her message far beyond what she had anticipated. For many Syrians, it became a symbol of defiance and dignity. Al-Kateab’s efforts underscored the enduring spirit of a people who, despite not being free, refused to lose their sense of pride and aspiration for a just society. This moment of visibility was crucial in keeping the Syrian cause in the global consciousness during a time when it seemed the world had moved on.

Five years later, al-Kateab's commitment to her cause remains unwavering. Her latest film, "Death Without Mercy," explores the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes in Syria and Turkey in 2023, further highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the region. The collapse of the regime marked a pivotal moment, one filled with both euphoria and apprehension. While celebrating the end of a repressive era, al-Kateab acknowledges the long road ahead. Rebuilding Syria will require immense effort and responsibility, but she remains optimistic about the future. "A free country with dignity and democracy" is her enduring vision, reflecting a deep understanding of the responsibilities that come with such aspirations.

Through her films and activism, al-Kateab has become a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Her message of hope and resilience continues to inspire countless individuals around the world. As she looks toward the future, she carries the weight of responsibility alongside her optimism, knowing that the fight for a free and democratic Syria is only beginning. Her journey from the red carpet to the front lines of advocacy exemplifies the power of courage and determination in the face of adversity.

Many individuals find themselves abandoning their New Year's resolutions within a short period. According to recent studies, approximately 17% of people in the UK give up on their goals within a month. By the second or third month, this number rises to 21%. These statistics are likely underestimated since they rely on self-reported data. For instance, a survey conducted by Strava revealed that 80% of participants had already abandoned their resolutions by mid-January. Despite these challenges, setting goals remains crucial for personal development and well-being. The pressure to maintain ambitious routines can be overwhelming, leading even the most dedicated individuals to falter.

Understanding Habit Formation: Debunking the 21-Day Myth

In the vibrant yet demanding early months of the year, many people set out with high hopes for transformation. However, sustaining these changes proves difficult. Research has shown that the widely believed notion that it takes 21 days to form a habit is actually a misconception. This idea originated from Dr. Maxwell Maltz's book Psycho-Cybernetics, where he observed how patients adjusted mentally after surgery. Modern studies indicate that habits typically take between 59 and 66 days to begin forming, but can require up to 335 days to fully establish. A comprehensive review by the University of South Australia examined multiple studies on forming healthier routines, such as exercising, reducing sedentary time, and drinking more water.

From a behavioral science perspective, our brains naturally seek to create "habit loops" to simplify daily life. Establishing new habits, therefore, requires patience and realistic expectations. Professor Paul Dolan from the London School of Economics emphasizes that embedding a new habit into our automatic system typically takes at least two months. Setting achievable goals and understanding the true timeline for habit formation can significantly increase the likelihood of success.

This insight serves as a reminder to approach goal-setting with a balanced mindset. Rather than being discouraged by early setbacks, individuals should focus on gradual progress and recognize that lasting change takes time. By setting realistic expectations and maintaining consistent effort, one can successfully integrate healthier habits into daily life.