Through the years I’ve found myself reading articles talking about a number of things people have learned in life (specially when a new year approaches). Before 2019 ends I wanted to come up with my own list of things I learned this 2019. When I started developing my list, I realized it’s almost impossible to have only 5 items. There is so much that can be learned in 365 days. So I ended up picking 5 things people might relate to. These items are not necessarily in order of importance but I hope it serves somebody on their life journey. Here it goes…
Life takes a different route when you realize you live in a network and you’re a vital node in it
This year I was able to help gather Christmas gifts for a community in need. I didn’t realize the impact I was having until I saw the faces of the children. This was just an act of normal people trying to help. We were able to collect toys from those who were willing to help kids in need. At that point, I realized each person can have an impact since we live in a network. Everything we do will impact those who surround us. This gives me a totally different perspective about the things I do and spend my time on.
The past prepared you for what happens now. Today is full of opportunities for growth, peace, and happiness.
Lets face it we all make mistakes, say dumb things, do dumb things, hurt people and do wrong stuff. Instead of regretting our past mistakes, we should learn from them. As long as we learn from mistakes…they are allowed. This year I made some mistakes but I grew because I learned a lesson from each one of them. What matters is that we look forward and try to be the best version of ourselves.
Never settle!
You might be thinking “well that’s very cliche”. I think it’s actually a key attitude to be happy. At least in my case. I learned you have to start small. For example, if you’re planning a trip don’t stop looking until you find the thing or place you think is perfect. If you’re shopping for a pair of shoes, don’t stop until you find a pair you fall in love with. If you don’t settle on small things then, when the time comes, you’ll fight for the bigger things that you really want. Never stop until you get them!
People and experiences are more important than things
So at the beginning of this year, I set myself a goal of traveling at least once a month. I had to give up on things such as clothes, new phone, or new shoes… stuff in general. Now that 2019 is ending I feel all the money that I spent on traveling was well worth it. It was an investment that helped shape my character and personality. I was able to learn so much from all the different cultures and places I was exposed to. I could go on and on at this point but just think about it…when we stop existing physically what can we take with us?
Ponte en los zapatos de los demás
So this phrase means put yourself in other people’s shoes. Basically, before you judge somebody’s behavior/personality, think about their situation or background. Don’t look down at them or say something negative. Instead, think how you can help. Life takes interesting turns. We really never understand somebody’s behavior until we go through it. Before judging, walk a mile in their shoes. The best thing we can do is to understand and be there to help.
Bonus
So at the beginning of this year I set myself a goal of writing an article each month on this blog. I started strong in January but that was it. This New Year’s Eve I have two options. I can either quit or try again. Which one do you think I should chose?
Comment below on the meaningful things you learned this year.
Thanks for reading! Happy New Year! 🙂
