Another year has come to an end. It is unbelievable how fast time flies and how quickly we get to the new year.
For me, 2023 was a year of a lot of achievements, travels, and moments. I have done a lot of introspective work and explored myself a bit better. I took each day as a learning opportunity, and an opportunity to be better than the day before, embracing my journey of self-growth.
I have no regrets about anything. Life is meant to be lived fully and even when there are setbacks, you can always stand back up and chase your dreams.
As like every year, each year teaches me something new, something to be wiser about.
Here are my top three lessons from 2023
Keep your friends closer and your enemies far
In 2023, I have understood the true meaning of friendships and meaningful relationships. I have had friends who cut me out of their lives for no apparent reason, the same people I used to hang out with and to whom I showed my most vulnerable self. They decided to cut me out of their lives by not connecting with me, texting me, or unfollowing me. I once would have been upset about this, but my mature self understands that some friendships don't need my valuable time, and whoever wants to be in my life will make time no matter what. So cut the ties with people who don't appreciate you.
Working hard pays off
This year I have worked towards getting my CFA designation. It was my biggest achievement and I often forget that I don't need to study for it anymore. I kinda miss studying for the exam, but I am happy it is over. Getting the charter consisted of a lot of sacrifices and endless hours of study. But in the end, it has paid off. I haven't gotten to where I am just by sitting on the couch and waiting for things to happen. If you want to achieve things, you need to get up and take some serious actions. I know we all set goals during the year, but then somehow forget about them the second we face a hurdle. What will set you apart from the person next to you is the dedication and consistency you put into things. If you want something, "just do it"
Life is about the choices we make
Life is about choices. We choose to wake up in the morning and go to work. We choose to go to the gym at the end of a workday. We choose our partners every day. Nothing is forced on us, but everything is a result of the choices we make and we have been making. If you are unhappy where you are, you can choose to live. If you are unhappy with your boss, you can choose to change jobs. If you are unhappy about gaining weight, you can choose to eat healthier. Everything in life is about what we want to do with it. So whatever you want and whatever you desire, do it wisely.
Here is my message for you today.
"Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something and that this thing must be attained."
— Marie Curie