Notes throughout the years: 2018

I usually write down some of my blurry thoughts at the beginning of the year so I collect them here to read later 😉

Follow #notesthroughouttheyear to read some of my blurry thoughts throughout the year 😉

Another amazing year has passed!

I can’t say thanks enough for all the things that happened to me in 2017. I am grateful to be reminded that I am still able to work, learn, contribute and improve.

Targets are set and I am having another 365 days to complete them. In 2017, I tried to improve some aspects and fields, including Vietnamese history, Vietnamese eating habits, interesting facts about some states in the USA + some European countries, and the cradle of western thought starting with the wine-drinking philosophy of the Greeks.

2017 was the year of my first time to Ha Giang, to Chiang Mai, to Sihanoulk Ville, to the hidden temples in Siem Reap, and to many “new” corners in Saigon.

2017 was a year of meeting new and interesting people: a new friend from Switzerland who introduced me to South Park, a mentor (also) from Switzerland who inspired me so much and followed every single step in my career path, a client who took a 38-day trip I planned and gave me many pieces of wise advice, and so many so many other people and travelers I have met along the year. They are all incredible and add reasons for me to love my job.

2017 was a year of really learning about leadership aka having someone in my team to take care of. People say to be a great leader is not an easy task and I totally agree. I still find myself struggling and confused sometimes but life teaches us through examples and small things. You know, it’s difficult to be tough and soft at the same time, to speak and listen at the same time, to agree and to disagree at the same time. And all of these things make you feel like you are spending your life going way around and around. That’s why I am still learning. I am a happy learner.

2017 was a year of stepping out of my comfort zone and trying things I had never thought I would / could do. And it was good.

2017 was a year of saving. I am not rich but I did learn how to manage my money (to be honest, sometimes, it’s very messy)…with baby steps.

2017 was a year of tolerance and letting go. There were days, I felt so depressed that a tiny thing could make me explode…but luckily, I am still here. I learned how to let go which was easier said than done. It took me almost a whole year to start understanding it. I changed my way of looking at things / people. Believe me, everyone has something special.

I am grateful for so many things and I have always tried to express my gratitude throughout the year. I want to take this moment to review my 2017 and can’t wait to explore what life is throwing at me in 2018. It might give me some challenges, but still, it’s me to decide whether to face them or run away from them. No matter what life has to offer, don’t waste any opportunity to be a better version of yourself.

Happy Lunar New Year Everyone!