Another year has gone by faster than could be imagined with so much that I cherish. New Year’s Eve has always been my favorite holiday because I love celebrating everything that the year brought us. It gives me the opportunity to reflect, set goals, and become energized for what’s to come. Friends have told me endlessly, “this year was a shitshow, this wasn’t a good year” and I didn’t understand why but I’ve never shared those feelings. I think it’s the big picture thinker in me as well as the optimist.

This year was one of a kind and it was difficult for many, myself included. Yet I remain optimistic on what I got out of it as I reflect on my word for this year – Gratification.

Over the years, life has thrown situations where I’m forced to embrace my word of the year and for that I couldn’t be more grateful. It allows me to put into practice the intention that I reflect and seek to apply. My word of the year in 2019 was exuberance (DEFINE) in order to find beauty in the big picture. The first month of the new year hadn’t even passed and I received the gut-wrenching news that my grandfather had passed away. Without any notice, all my plans had been put to an end. Training for the Walt Disney Marathon, a week in the Disney parks, 6 months of training and planning, all gone. There wasn’t any question that there wasn’t disappointment around this - it’s only human to feel let down when you’ve been expecting something, and receive another. But, being the optimistic and exuberant person that I am, I quickly accepted the reality of what was happening. I was not only able to run the marathon that I had worked so hard for, but was also able to be with my dad and grandmother in India in the most difficult times

In hindsight, it was one of the best starts to the year. I was given some of the most challenging, yet rewarding and unforgettable experiences.

Similarly, the pandemic allowed me to focus on balancing instant and long-term gratification by forcing me to stare at it in the face. The struggles I faced with slowing down, prioritizing finances, and making decisions that would set myself up for success were not feasible with the life I was living. When I was putting into practice the elements that allowed me to build an identity around this word, I didn’t think that it would bring me the joy that it has. These included building a morning/night routine, becoming more consistent with fitness, and taking time to rest. Most importantly, I definitely couldn’t have survived without these key takeaways in the forms of affirmations -

I AM LOVED

When I moved home, it was for primarily financial reasons. I didn’t anticipate to gain the enjoyment that has come with spending time with my parents and having the opportunity to get to know them as individuals. When I was talking to a friend about why we used to feel the need to get away from home when we were teenagers, she told me about this article called The Tail End by Tim Urban. He breaks down the human lifespan visually and provides a daunting realization of the limited time you have left with the ones you loved most. This is a scary realization but important reminder to spend the quality time with those you love the most, prioritize what’s important to you, and ensure that the time is of quality (The Tail End).

I AM AT PEACE

 The slow pace of suburban life with wholesome family moments, heartwarming simple traditions, and ease of travel is where I find myself happiest. That’s not to say that I’m done with living in urban cities, but I’ve found comfort in recognizing that I will be able to return to the slow pace of life at peace once I’m ready to.

I AM ON THE PATH TOWARDS PROFESSIONAL FULFILLMENT

 Through the power of connectivity and dedication, I’ve developed my newfound goal to return the prioritization of human beings to organizations. I believe that in seeking the title of “world dominance”, this country has lost site of the importance of being truly human in the workplace. Yet, I am optimistic and hopeful for what is to come. 2020 has shown corporations the importance of social responsibility and the need for ensuring that their people are cared for.

I AM RESPONSIBLE

 My profligate spending was always something that I knew needed to be taken under control. It dawned on me that in order to have money, you need to save it. And for some reason, this was so challenging for me. But I learned and was able to actually enjoy investing thanks to listening to Robinhood Snacks Podcast, discussing the takeaways with my friends, and my belief in supporting organizations that align with my values.

I WILL BE OK

These were only a few major takeaways for what I’m certain is the year of the most growth to date. The challenge with growth is in the present, it feels like struggle and discomfort. But I’m grateful for my ability to be able to zoom out and know that while it’s hard now, it will be a learning opportunity in the future. And ultimately, that’s what makes life worth living - the highs and lows. It’s all what consists of humanity and by sharing our experiences, we are able to levy connectivity to bridge the gap between all that is uncertain and challenging. I’m eager for what 2021 will bring, not only for me but for this world and with that, I present my new word – Wholeheartedness.

Sources:

Urban, Tim. “The Tail End.” Wait But Why, 28 Nov. 2020, waitbutwhy.com/2015/12/the-tail-end.html.