Top 5 things I learned in 2018

2018 in review.

1.) There is purpose in pain. This is a loaded statement, but God has been extremely good in maneuvering my life back on track. The pain was designed to rest my case and trust in Him. 2019 is a totally brand new restart.

2.) My life's worth is dependent on the depth of relationships I make. Prior to learning this the hard way, I took all the wrong stumbles to derive my self-worth from the things I do and contribute to the value of money that I carefully keep in my account. Needless to say, none of these equate to my worth. I only found so much meaning when I opened myself up to a trustworthy circle that helped grow my faith.

3.) Small acts accumulate to something big over time. This is so true across life's most important aspects - be it finances, wellness, and relationships. The whole is always more than the sum of its parts. I've learned how to put value to some loose coins kept away in a stash, 10-minute jog-in-place sessions, and short notes to remind loved ones that they matter. All these accumulate to something grand over time.

4.) Money is meant for purposeful spending and investing. I was extremely stingy and savings-conscious even from before (even if I hardly saved up anything at all, haha :)) I learned how to be easy on myself money-wise. I booked that plane ticket, planned and went on a family vacation, bought my own domain, treated myself and some good friends to coffee, pitched in food items for fellowship breakfast events, purchased at least 4 print books from Amazon, and gifted away health-related items to those in my close circle. And yes, these are some of my personal investments which align with my overall objective of making others feel loved and valued.

5.) Forgive, but do not forget. I had my fair share of hurt, and the longer I held onto it, the more miserable my life and thoughts have become. And this hurt would eventually multiply. I learned how to let go. God has his own way of not letting any evil go unpunished, and all there is to do is forgive the aggressor. But I retain and remember the life lessons.

Thank you 2018! You're one for the books!