As I sit down with my coffee mug, I am reminded yet again that tomorrow is a special day. A day when I officially finish another revolution around the sun – a year older and wiser. Reflecting on the past 12 months, I realize it’s only befitting to pen a letter to ‘a year younger’ myself. It’s like an annual ritual now; an yearly performance appraisal of sorts.
Starting with the count of what was accomplished; many firsts that I did the past dozen months. Attended a dance workshop which helped pick up my childhood journey of classical dance lessons I used to take in middle school. A micro-trip all by myself, stepping stone to a full fledged solo trip. A soulful reconnection with a friend from the past, tricky waters but glad I could swim across the current. Increased executive presence at workplace, executing critical decisions and owning up the outcomes. Egged my spiritual side by exploring unanswered questions with the help of a guru. A few impromtu travel plans with the clan, historic moment for a Type A personality mom who overplans even intra-city drives. Lost just over 10 pounds; gained improved immunity, energy levels and a new found love for this form of self care. Overshot personal goal to read and write consistently; this also motivated my boys to develop a reading habit. Priortized people and connections by spending quality time over talks, food and togetherness.

And then a deeper reflection of what helped me accomplish these. Improved conversational skills to navigate tricky and sensitive topics with close ones. Pause before responding by weighing in my thoughts as well as words. Smiled more often and smiled for no reason to protect my calm and peace. Developed routines with flexibility to enable consistency yet leaving room for exploration
In short a year of growth and adventure. As I put my pen down, the coffee is cold but my soul is nourished to welcome what the next year holds for me!