I spent many nights journaling and blogging this year, I write about the downfalls and the times when I thrive. Reflections are a mirroring effect of our experiences and emotions at a certain place and time. Changes were so rapid this year, that my personal growth kept trying to fit into a new mold every time. There were many times when I really needed a breather but I was so obsessed with keeping up with my busy schedule. Over the span of 12 months, I saw a drastic change in my view of life and wellbeing. I started to shift my priorities, invest my energy in the right people, learn to love more everyday and appreciate the littlest things in life. A lot of my internal growth developed after a lot of prayer and quiet time. I am a believer of Christ and I believe in daily prayers, so I did a lot of praying to build and strengthen my faith. My love for my surrounding started to flourish, and I could see myself feeling more and more contented each and everyday. A lot of it took time, but I’m so glad that the things and people in my life are receiving the love they deserve to feel.
On New Years Eve, I decided to write my 2020 Takeaway alongside Andrew over zoom. We answered 10 journal prompts that really made us think about the entire year in detail. Some prompts took longer to answer than others. Andrew reflected a lot on his challenges and adventures, as for me I reflected on my emotions and wellbeing. He’s naturally very stable and calm, so emotional roller coasters are probably something foreign to him. It is a lot nicer to talk to someone who is older since they’re more experienced and mature, and the conversations tend to have more depth and understanding.
Below I shared some of my 2020 Takeaways and I’m really happy with them! Some of them have short answers because I prefer to keep some things confidential.
What have you learnt about yourself?
After months of daily reflection I got to know myself a lot better, and it helped me understand the kind of person I am. Self-control is a prominent part of helping me achieve my goals. I’m constantly monitoring my actions to avoid wondering of track (considering that I’m so fixated on school work and my character building). While self-monitoring, there comes a lot of commitment and it naturally motivates me towards my goals. Although the pandemic kept me from going outside, I was still overwhelmed by school, work and people. I liked that because it gave me a purpose to live everyday. There was no time set aside to be bored or idle during the year (which I’m so happy about!).
5 things you’ve learned this year
Being kind and nice are VERY different
Be authentic
Family should and will always be appreciated
Quality > quantity in friendships
Time heals
What did you lose from 2020?
Bad habits
I remember taking this photo of myself after walking in the heavy rain. I was drenched and my feet and hands were so cold, but I was so happy. I’d dread the rain and the sudden drop in temperature all the time, and allowed it to effect my moods. The heavy rain was against me and the wind was howling from every direction. Although my surrounding was so unpleasant, I kept smiling and laughing because my heart was so light. From that day, I was proud to see myself conquering my bad habit of allowing the weather to determine my mood. Now I just remind myself of the blessings and goodness of my day to lighten my mood.
My favorite day in 2020 is/was..
Nov 7, 2020
What do you hope will remain the same in 2021 from 2020?
The friendships and relationships
People are so beautiful, they have an emotional mechanisms that make humane connections so easy. The people I have in my life right now allow and help me spiritually grow. Sometimes, I can’t help but tell them how much I appreciate their existence because they’re truly so precious!
What did you gain from 2020?
Wellbeing, love and new relationships
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