On the surface, the year 2013 was a little uneventful. At least it appeared to be that way when I tried to recall any major events in this year. The time flew by as I ground through the day-to-day activities at work and at home. Sometimes I couldn't even recall what month it was in the year. Somehow the information of which day it was in the week seemed more relevant since that could tell me how many days I had to work before taking a break. This trend, if continued, can be dangerous as it numbs one's true desires and feelings, and suppresses one's dreams and ambitions. To break this vicious cycle, I decide to write this blog and post my new year's resolution for the record.
One of the few things that popped into my mind as I looked back to 2013 was the three business trips to Austin, Texas and the New York State. They stood out as highlights in the sense that they gave me a different environment that brought excitement. I also enjoyed the full independence and flexibility while on business trip. Being able to make the calls was very liberating to me. It made me feel responsible and in control. Although not being able to see my kids was a bummer, it gave me the chance to explore and discover the best work conditions/environments in which I can fully demonstrate my capabilities and potential.
Another possible highlight of the year was the several investments that I made. Hopefully they can yield handsome financial gains in the years to come. However, one thing I learnt was that pure financial excitements only bring short-term gratification. The true joy lies in the achievements that one accomplishes, the impact that one creates, and the differences that one makes to other people and the world. I will make an effort to focus on these activities for the years to come.
One of the good things of having kids is that they grow up no matter what. So the last but not the least highlight of the year was that our two adorable girls grew up healthily and happily during the year. Life sometimes can be hectic with a 3.5-year-old and a 1.5-year-old at home. It is nonetheless very rewarding and fulfilling. No matter what joy or grievances that a day's work had given me, coming home to these two cutest little persons in the world was the best reminder of life's goodness. During lunch with two colleagues today I commented on how DH and I would feel rather satisfied and grateful if we ever had the time to watch a DVD rental at home since we rarely got any time to spend together in the evening after the kids went asleep. A lot of times one or both of us had to work or take care of home chores. However, I forgot mention to my colleagues that this had been a positive thing instead. I had learnt to really make good use of my time, to be conscious about where and how I was spending my time, and to prioritize almost everything in life (including how to best sequence chores in the house).
The year 2013 might have been a very good year after all. Here is what I would like to accomplish in the year 2014 to make it more fulfilling:
1. Focus on health. Work out at least 3 times a week for 20-30 mins each time.
2. Connect the mind and the body through meditation or other similar activities to calm the mind and quiet anxiety. Stop worrying about the future or obsessing with the past. Focus instead on the current moment. Be more relaxed.
3. Practice listening skills when communicating with other people. Practice self-awareness and emotional intelligence skills. Voice my emotion and feelings to DH and other people if needed calmly and consciously. Resolve any conflicts at home and at work with grace and empathy.
4. Switch to a Marketing role, enjoy work more, and be able to apply more of my strengths to work.
5. Dedicate time to family. Make it a priority to spend quality time with the kids and DH.
I am glad that I could finish this blog before midnight -- the official end of 2013.
I look forward to an all new 2014!
Wish all my friends and family a healthy, happy, and fruitful 2014!
With love and gratitude,
Lucy
P.S. Here is a very helpful info-graphic by Anna Vital from Funders and Founders that I want to share with everybody including myself.
