Just A Small Town Girl…

So it’s December 31st 2019, aka time to get reflective!

This year has honestly flown by for me; I know, I know people always say that, but I genuinely mean it! 2018 on the other hand, did not fly by. It was a very “meh” kind of year for me, nothing particularly bad happened, but in comparison to the awesome year that was 2017, 2018 dragged slightly. Thankfully though, I can report that 2019 was a step back in the right direction. 😀

This year I really feel like I rediscovered myself. I made a conscious effort to take steps to focus on my mind, body and soul. And in doing so, I got back to the real me again. 🙂

I began the year by deciding to go teetotal and reduced my meat intake significantly. I also got into the habit of waking up early to do a morning workout before leaving for work (well for most of the year anyway, definitely started slacking once the clocks went back…oops!).

Something that I was consistently consistent with, however, was my reading. I devoured at least one book every month this year. I haven’t read that much since uni days!

I also broadened my knowledge of my religion: Sikhi. And in doing so, awakened my spiritual side that had been in a deep sleep for many years. Additionally, I took out time to educate myself on the history of India, of Punjab specifically. And in doing so I feel so much more grounded and connected to my roots, I guess knowledge truly is power. So now that I’ve whet my appetite, I’m determined to carry on learning more.

This year I also got a new job, which is a step higher in my career. Although I’m only a few months in, I’m really loving the increased responsibility and finally feel like a valued member of a team with a voice that people actually want to hear. Hallelujah, praise the lord, we finally got there!

On the travel front, I enjoyed a couple of amazing trips to Turkey and Japan. I’m slowly but surely on the path to ticking off 30 countries before I hit 30! And this was also the year that I finally found my lobster. ❤

But alas, it can’t all be sunshine and rainbows. This year I lost my Thai (Aunt) very unexpectedly, which stopped me in my tracks and reminded me just how precious and uncertain this life really is. And as you’ll know if you’ve been following my blog, I developed Blepharitis, but *touch wood* I think I’m finally getting to grips with it!

All in all it’s been a good one and I really can’t complain. I’m so thankful for all my friends and family who have put up with me for yet another year (and no, 2020 will not be the year that you finally shake me off, sorry guys!).

Rather than having a new year’s resolution, I have more of an ongoing objective that I’ve set myself for the new year: I want to volunteer more.

I want to lend my skillset to non-profit organisations that are close to my heart. While 2019 was all about looking inwards and building myself up from the inside (which I will of course continue to dedicate time to for my own sanity!) I want 2020 to be about looking outwards and doing my bit to help others. I lead an extremely privileged life, so it’s about time I got off my backside and started to give back to the less fortunate.

I guess all that’s left to say is happy new year dear reader! I wish you endless blessings for the year ahead. I wish for you to stay positive and smiling (it’s a good look on you, trust me) and I pray that you and your loved ones have the strength to overcome any hurdles that come your way. See you on the other side! ❤