As the New Year gets rolling, I took a few minutes to reflect on the last 12 months. I’ve been meaning to do this for a while and despite it already being 2014, it’s better late than never. Blogging for reflective practice is how I began blogging so here goes…
A lot of changes took place in 2013, which have been transformational for me personally and professionally. I’m writing from Nepal where I am far from many friends and family yet close to lots of new friends and colleagues.
Looking back, these are my top five highlights:
- Becoming a Mom. The biggest and best change has been becoming a mom to “Ira”. I learned a lot in the past year about living in the moment, enjoying the small gifts a baby offers and the love of family. I think I also understand my own mother more.
- Embracing Community. Discovering the kindness of people and community (mostly due to Ira) both at home and around the world has opened my heart and mind. Thank you.
- Rediscovering Yoga. I brought yoga back into my life. The benefits of practicing yoga physically, mentally and emotionally have been a great addition to the daily routine. More than simply postures its an approach to life.
- Teamwork. I enjoy working in a team. Being a mom pushed me to find people to collaborate with to accomplish my work commitments. More than usual, this year I collaborated with several smart, generous and talented women and I look forward to sharing more projects with them and others in the years to come.
- Growing professionally. With an urge to increase my international sustainable development work and follow my passions, I became an associate with the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), moved to Nepal for a few months and have picked up very interesting international contracts. I also gave two graphic facilitation workshops in September, which fed me with energy and enthusiasm for using visuals in our work and doing more workshops in the future. I have learned a lot in the last seven years of consulting and its gratifying to continue to grow in my career. I feel fortunate to be able to work with my passions with so many inspiring people.
Thank you to all the friends, family, and colleagues who have been a part of my journey through 2013. While I may not communicate often (and apologies for not sending holiday cards), I am thinking of you and grateful for our connections. I am looking forward to the year ahead and hope our paths cross soon virtually or in person. A blog post about living in Nepal will be coming shortly!
5 thoughts on “Personal reflections on 2013”
Happy New Year!
All my best wishes for more adventures, learning and experiences in the coming years.
I know first hand your generosity, curiosity, energy and love of new places when you so generously let me come with you to Bolivia many years ago. It was a highlight of my life!
Love you,
Maria
Thanks Maria! I can’t believe how adventurous you are (and were). We roughed it quite a bit in Bolivia when I look back on that time…you should come to Nepal. I need a trekking partner!
You may be way far away but your energy is everywhere. What a nice post. Look forward to more adventures in 2014!
Thanks Sylvia!