2023 was rough

this year was by far one of my most challenging years but it is also probably one of the most transformational years.

I found an inner strength that I didn't know I had.

And I found myself in a space where I was continuously learning more about myself and the wonderful people around me.

In the moments of darkness, I savored every moment where I could experience joy, laughter and fun.

I developed a new level of tenacity that feels more defined, renewed and strengthened.

However, for 2024, I am really going to be focused on enjoyment.

Not just the parties and the travels, but just enjoying each day that I get to wake up and live my life.

I can say that I am in a space where I finally feel free to do what I want, and there's nothing that I am doing that I would rather not be doing it.

I feel like I'm finally in a place where I can move with ease.

And while that doesn't mean it's going to be stressful, it does mean that I will hopefully have a better way of dealing with it.

2024 is going to be a lot of continuous learning.

There were things that I started in 2023 but they haven't been refined yet.

I'm not in a huge rush but I want to make sure that I am taking the intentional steps to continuously invest and grow in these specific areas.

Here are my growth areas for 2024.

Growth Area #1: My Software Engineering Job

At the end of October I started a new job and it is probably one of the hardest roles that I have done. Instead of letting imposter syndrome get the best of me, I will be focusing on learning, getting up to speed and hope to one day being good at my job again.

Growth Area #2: Learning French

I've had this goal of learning french for awhile now and this year I have put some action behind my talk! While my french is not the best yet, I look forward to the day when I can roam the streets of any french speaking country and assimilate.

Growth Area #3: Fitness

I am someone who probably hates working out but I do it because it keeps me sane. Now, I feel like I've really become a bit of a fitness junkie and have begun to truly appreciate moving my body and finding new opportunities to challenge myself. I can say that I have a good workout split that challenges me but that I also enjoy as well. I want to continue prioritizing fitness and wellness in my life.

Growth Area #4: Productivity

The culture around productivity is often associated with hustle culture, but it doesn't have to be! I have always been someone who is always doing a lot, but I still have a pretty active social life and find time for relaxation. I'm looking forward to really connecting the dots and digging more into being more productive and I am excited to see where that goes.

I have no doubt that 2024 is going to throw me some big loop and there might be a chance that these priorities may shift, but if I can start off the year with a little bit more targeted intention, then at least I can say that I'm doing my best.