As 2024 comes to a close, I am reflecting on the journey this year has been. If I had to sum it up in one phrase, it would be: Do it anyway
Last year, I learned that fear doesn’t have to stop you. This year, it is simple doing it, IN SPITE OF or DESPITE OF.
Whether it’s taking the first step on a new project (for me, that was my final year undergrad research project or more recently being an operations manager for an AC company)
Or venturing into uncharted territories (travelling for the first time, alone, for Work and Travel)
The act of moving forward (for me, graduating) —even with shaky knees—is where growth happens. It’s okay to be the “foolish beginner.” In fact, it’s necessary.
If there’s something you’ve been holding back on, let me share what worked for me:
Just start. Please don't wait for the perfect moment; it rarely comes.
Commit to sticking with it for at least three months. Growth takes time. Consistency helps with that
Evaluate. After three months, ask yourself: Am I learning? Am I earning? If the answer is no, change it.
This year taught me that dreaming big is great, but there’s power in appreciating the present. You are exactly where you need to be right now. Planning and dreaming for more doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful—it means you’re hopeful.
My 6 Pieces of Advice for You from 2024
Writing as a Journey
Writing has been a significant part of my life this year, serving many purposes:
Sharing my interests and helping others with knowledge I didn’t have before. (Example: Scholarship Guide)
Allowing myself to be seen and heard, even by others I would never had met in real life.
Refining my voice and thoughts, one post at a time.
If you want to be discovered, whether for opportunities or a job - consider writing. This doesn't have to be a blog website, but on LinkedIn or other online communities.
Writing also helps in your personal life too! AKA Journalling
Spiritual Anchors
One of the hardest lessons this year was realizing how crucial spirituality is to my well-being.
When I neglect my spiritual life, everything else—work, relationships, even my health—seems to unravel. Prioritizing this part of my life brought clarity and balance.
Matthew 6: 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
If you’ve felt disconnected, start small. A moment of prayer, meditation, or gratitude each day can make a world of difference.
AI as a Tool
I have always been a fan of technology. AI is no different but this year, I saw it being integrated into my life even more.
Like a knife, it can prepare a meal or cause harm to a person. The power lies in how you use it.
Some of my favorite AI this year included:
NotebookLM - oh, I wished I had this when I was still studying for finals. Loving that it only using the data I upload as a source, the podcast generation and the recent ability to ask a question during the podcast.
ChatGPT - yep, the same opensource AI that got the world in a buzz, loved the improvements and updates. Once you custom it and give it the right prompts, works wonders
Canva AI - best image generation tool so far that was consistent for me
Some of my favorite ChatGPT prompts this year included:
“Ask me questions before you answer.”
“You are a highly experienced teacher. Teach me one concept at a time, building up from basics to advanced, with practical lessons.”
Used well, AI can enhance your creativity and productivity. Just remember, it’s here to support you, not replace you.
Documenting Life
Another lesson from 2024: Document your life. Take pictures, videos, and notes. Write down the small stories that make up your days.
But remember, not everything needs to be shared. Some moments are sacred, meant just for you.
Sitting with Emotions
This year, I also learned the importance of sitting with my emotions. It’s tempting to distract ourselves with work, social events, or social media when feelings become uncomfortable. But true growth comes from leaning in, not running away.
When you feel overwhelmed, try this:
Notice the emotion or physical sensation.
Breathe. Don’t try to change it or make it go away. Just sit with it.
It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.
Focus and Simplicity
One of my favourite takeaways from this year: You can’t try everything at once. Pick one or two areas of focus and pour your energy into them. After a month or three, evaluate your progress, then scale back and move to something else.
It’s okay to take it slow. Growth isn’t a race.
As I close out this year, I want to thank you for being part of my journey. Whether you’re a regular reader or stumbled across this post by chance, I hope these lessons resonate with you.
What lessons did 2024 teach you? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments.
Here’s to doing it scared in 2025.
Be Liv-Tastic 😊
Comments