Reflecting on Five Years of Change

Life is full of fleeting moments that can easily pass us by if we aren't paying attention. Many of us find ourselves caught up in the relentless pursuit of success and recognition, engulfed by the hustle culture that glorifies busyness. As a result, we often neglect the vital practice of self-reflection and introspection. Personally, I find this lifestyle quite disheartening.

After realizing this, I took a much-needed break from my hectic routine. I left the chaos of the city for a peaceful retreat just three hours away. This time away allowed me to assess my life over the last five years. It’s been five years since I graduated with a BSc in Computer Science and embarked on my journey as a Software Engineer. During this period, I finally moved out of my family home after struggling with the idea for three years and discovered a passion for cooking.

With the gift of quiet time, I reflected on my life's journey. These five years felt simultaneously brief and extensive, filled with both triumphs and tribulations.

I faced profound losses, including the passing of my beloved mother in 2019. Recently, my father informed me that my uncle, her brother, has also passed away. Navigating grief and loss has been a significant aspect of my life during these years.

Yet, I also celebrated many victories—both grand and small. It’s easy to overlook the smaller achievements while focusing solely on the major ones, but I’ve made a conscious effort to acknowledge and celebrate all of my wins.

Here are some significant life changes I've embraced over the past five years that I take pride in. Although they may seem simple, they have proven to be immensely fulfilling.

1. I Took Ownership of My Time

The loss of my mother served as a powerful reminder about the value of time. The present moment is all we truly possess; the future is uncertain. After her passing, I found myself yearning for her presence, wishing she could witness my growth. The grief is a constant companion, but I cherish the memories we shared.

This experience has taught me that we come into this world alone, and ultimately, we leave alone. I've learned to prioritize my time, often saying "NO" to commitments that don't align with my values. Adopting this approach has been challenging, especially for someone like me who leans towards agreeableness. However, learning to assert myself has fostered greater self-confidence and satisfaction in how I spend my time.

2. I Embraced Teamwork

Historically, I’ve been a lone wolf, avoiding group projects in university due to frustrations with ineffective collaboration. I preferred the autonomy of working alone, where I could control every aspect of the process. However, my perspective has shifted dramatically over the last five years, thanks in large part to my experiences in the corporate world.

Assuming leadership and mentorship roles has helped me appreciate the value of teamwork. In my career, success has required effective communication and collaboration with others, reshaping my understanding of productivity.

3. I Cultivated Intentional Curiosity

For many years, my curiosity was limited to my immediate interests, mainly music and writing. I ignored topics outside my comfort zone, from sports to politics. However, in the last five years, I intentionally expanded my horizons.

This newfound curiosity has pushed me beyond my comfort zone, encouraging me to explore new experiences and challenge my preconceived notions. The process may be uncomfortable, but the rewards of increased knowledge and confidence are worth the effort.

4. I Finally Mastered the Multiplication Tables

While it may seem trivial, mastering multiplication tables has been a significant personal victory for me. As a child, I struggled immensely with this concept and lacked the motivation to learn.

Now, I understand that success in mastering multiplication stems from finding the right incentives. Recognizing the value of these skills in everyday activities and my career has made learning enjoyable and practical.

Transforming your life requires commitment and effort, but it's essential to remember that nothing is impossible if you dedicate yourself to it. My story aims to inspire you to embark on your growth journey. If you haven't yet begun, now is the perfect time to reflect on your life and the changes you've experienced over the years.

To further inspire you, here are the four life changes I'm proud of:

1. I began owning my time.
2. I became a team player.
3. I became intentionally curious.
4. I finally mastered the multiplication tables.

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