12 Months, Countless Lessons: My 2024 Year in Review
Find Your Own Badassery: An End-of-Year Reflection Exercise
Hello my loves!
As this year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the journey we’ve shared, both here in this space and in the quiet corners of my own life. Documenting this past year has been incredibly helpful, a way to trace the threads of growth, resilience, and joy woven through the months. Using the exercise I shared last Monday—diving into my journals and photos—I’ve uncovered some key highlights and learnings that I’m excited to share with you.
January marked a rekindling of my writing flame. I felt a deep pull to explore creative avenues beyond my day job, a yearning that led me to Emma Gannon’s book, which resonated deeply.
Learning: When a persistent curiosity tugs at you, it’s a clear sign to explore.
In February, a few
classes later, I found my home here on Substack, sharing my first piece and being met with such warmth and connection. Ironically, this same month brought a significant career setback on the 23rd.Learning: When one door closes, another is indeed opening, even if it’s just a crack at first. Setbacks aren’t failures, but gentle nudges guiding us in a new direction.
March saw me continuing to write about topics close to my heart, finding acceptance and connection within various communities. I began attending in-person events, meeting many of you in real life—talented women in mental health and creative fields. Despite the career turmoil, these connections, along with the unwavering support of my life partner and the satisfaction I found in teaching, kept me grounded.
Learning: The world is so much bigger than our own little bubbles. And everyone is replaceable other than your loved ones. Your job is just a job, not your life.
April was a time for nature therapy and leaning on love for strength during those difficult times.
In May, I powered through lesson observations and deadlines, despite the ongoing challenges at work. So grateful to my group mates and the most inspiring professor I have ever had, Dr My. Her support in many way made this phase of my life bearable and inspiring. The one who taught me the valuable lesson of having a growth mindset!
Learning: Tough times reveal our inner strength. The only way through them is to live through them, learning and growing as we move forward.
In June, I launched my creative wellness project, exploring the power of creativity for self-care. Collaborating with incredible people for the launch, I found solace in creative journaling, a way to quiet my anxious mind amidst uncertainty and stress. Special thanks to the lovely souls that were part of the launch campaign.
Learning - If you are open to new possibilities, you will meet the right people at the right time that align with your goals.
July was about taking each day as it came, stepping outside my comfort zone, and celebrating the completion of my PGDE—I’m officially a double post-graduate!
Learning: We are stronger than we believe, and having the right people by our side can make even the toughest times bearable.
August was dedicated to spending time with loved ones and relaunching my brand.
Learning: In the relentless pace of life, it’s crucial to cherish our loved ones. Time with them is precious. Home is a place of healing. And it’s okay to dial down the anxiety—things will unfold in their own time.
September was a burst of creative energy: art challenges, prepping for and hosting my first workshop (a full house!), speaking at events, and creating art I was truly proud of.
Learning: Passion and dedication go a long way. We don’t need to dim our light to fit in. And making time for creative play is essential.
October was a month of saying “yes” to new experiences: a 21-day happiness challenge, pen pals, inspiring books, more workshops and events (including my first group run!), and reconnecting with extended family. I rediscovered the joy of cafe sketching and even spoke on a podcast!
Learning: Show up and say yes. We are capable of so much more than our minds sometimes tell us. Getting out of our heads and into our bodies is always a good idea.
November brought the joy of adjudicating an art event for children, got my PR, and a meal to celebrate it, continuing my cafe sketching, launching my YouTube channel (despite my doubts!), and creating beautiful memories in nature with new friends.
Learning: We’ll never feel fully ready for everything. Sometimes, we just have to take the leap. Finding a routine that works and sticking with it is key. Good things take time.
And finally, December saw another successful workshop and some of my best YouTube content yet!
Learning - Your passion, grit, resilience and consistency will take you a long way, just stick with it.
Of course, not everything went exactly as planned. I didn’t achieve all my goals—like writing a best-selling book (yet!). But I did write and publish consistently, which is a huge win. I learned to redirect my fear of uncertainty into creative projects, to detach my self-worth from my work, and to redefine my relationship with rest and productivity.
I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my family and the privilege of exploring different paths. And I learned to say “no” to things that didn’t bring me joy, without fear or regret.
This year has been a tapestry of highs and lows, challenges and triumphs. But most importantly, it’s been a year of growth, connection, and learning. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. I hope you do this exercise so you know what a badass you have been this year!
Sometimes, being a badass isn't about grand achievements; it's about quiet self-awareness, reflecting on our experiences, and learning from them. It's about acknowledging our resilience and celebrating the small victories along the way.
I will be off for the rest of this year and I wish you the best ending to this year! Thank you being a major part of it!
This is such a great way to reflect on the past year, not just reflection but how you kept growing throughout, be it in big or small ways. It’s very encouraging to read through your article. To look back and celebrate your achievements and learn from your losses and more importantly keep growing.