2021: Some Lessons

The view from my desk here at work is busier than ever. December is ending in two days; the next time I will be here will be 2022. For someone like me who loves the idea of restarting, the new year ahead excites my whole being. I already cleared my desk and tidied up my drawers. Also, I pinned a new calendar to the corkboard next to my desk, replacing the filled-out 2021.

I may appear prepared for 2022, but in reality, I am not. Unlike how I expected this year to be—eventful career-wise—I am not expecting something crazy such as escaping from Butuan next year. I only want to start the year light yet be mindful of what is already on my plate. Two of those include finishing my MS degree next year, which entails thesis writing and a comprehensive exam. Then, saving up, seriously, for an emergency fund.

Even now, I cannot draw any notable change in how I have done things this year than 2020. However, I have mastered my coping strategies for disappointments, rejections, and unchecked boxes. The biggest lesson I learned very early this year, though, is to be comfortable with cutting ties from uncomfortable places—and people. To flow no matter how rocky the road gets. Unnerving but necessary, especially if the only way out is that way out.

The lesson is in the process of hurting, which may only make sense after you make it out of the pit.

While there are times that require owning up your voice and claiming what is due, in some instances, it is also best to disregard closure and excessing explaining. Such is very difficult for someone who is always encouraged to speak up. But from where I am grounded now, paying attention to what matters most, basically saving more time, is strategic. I only give away 6 hours of my day for sleeping. A minute saved from dealing with a sealed mind ensures me a good night's sleep.

Almost everyone says, "this year's been a hell of a ride," which, some days, is partially true. But 2021, to me, has been relatively calmer. I now own most of my time because, importantly, I have secured a healthy workplace than last year. Wondering what's next is in my blood, but for now, I am taking things slow.

Taking note of Napoleon Bonaparte's wise words, "Space I can recover. Time, never." In 2022, I want to own more of my time and exert enough effort for the people I adore.

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Drafted December 29, 2021