Hoda Kotb reflects on embracing new chapter as she teases her future career plans ahead of 'Today' exit

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Hoda Kotb recently opened up about her decision to step away from the 'Today' show she has been a part of for over two decades and her future career plans.

In a candid conversation on 'Today With Hoda & Jenna' on Friday, October 25, the 60-year-old journalist admitted that while her decision feels right, it comes with a mix of excitement and fear.

Hoda Kotb says decision to quit 'Today' feels 'terrifying'

Speaking about her decision to exit the 'Today' show, Hoda Kotb said, “It’s scary. It’s terrifying. It’s all those things, but it’s also exactly right."

Though she has emotionally moved on about “75 percent,” she acknowledged there’s still a part of her clinging to her NBC roots, according to TODAY.

“Whenever I made a leap, a move, a jump — it was, like, I’m falling in love. I’m going to fall in love with a place, a restaurant, a friend,” said Kotb

Reflecting on her transition, Kotb likened this new beginning to “re-potting” a plant.

“You’re pulled up by your very roots, your foundation, everything that grounds you, and your roots are in the air,” she said.

As she considers where she will “land” next, Kotb realizes that so much of her journey will come down to her “decision-making.”

“When you love something, it’s hard to say goodbye because it doesn’t make sense, but there was something about recognizing a peak and saying in that peak, ‘I do not feel that there is an opportunity that would make this any better than it is today,’” she reflected.

“It was glorious. It was unforgettable,” the television personality added.

Hoda Kotb's future career plans

In addition to moving on from her full-time role, Hoda Kotb shared that she plans to explore wellness in her next chapter.

“I've been so turned on by the wellness space. I tried different things, and I noticed my body was calmer," she said.

Hinting at personal projects, she said, “I want to work in that space. I want to start things."

“I want you guys to come along on the ride with me because let’s all get better! Why not?” she added.

Kotb’s desire for new beginnings came into sharper focus when she turned 60 in September.

“It was such a monumental moment for me … because I started thinking about that decade. Like, ‘What does that decade mean? What does it hold?’” she said.