Looking back on 2015

So it is not yet the end of the year, but 2016 sure is coming soon. Last year I did a similar post, reflecting on 2014 and I wanted to do the same this year to see what I’ve experienced, learned and how I have changed over the year.

Let’s reflect!

I remembered that I had also made a list of Resolutions and looking back on them, I only failed on two of the seven points (read all of them here). I managed to keep on blogging, writing and publishing 65 posts so far! My most important resolutions however were to spend more time with my family and to keep on moving and get a bit fitter. I can proudly say I did both those things. I have noticed that being away for 5 months gives you the possibility to reset your relationships and the way you approach them. Family is really important and instead of feeling like “I don’t want to bother you with my worries”, I found that just calling your parents to discuss the day makes most worries look like nothing afterwards. So thanks mom and dad!

I bought a Fitbit activity tracker at the end of last year to help push me to move more, and although I still feel a bit silly when explaining what it is to people, I also feel really proud of it. My fitbit might be a bit of unnecessary tech to some people, but it has pushed me to move more and really reach those 10.000 steps a day. I did a lot of walking in Milan and since I have come back to Delft I have managed to keep it up. I walk into town instead of grabbing my bike (which probably feels a bit abandoned) almost every day. The walking is nice and I get a lot more fresh air now. If you would like a review of my fitbit, let me know in the comments below!

Learn anything new?

This year has been a year for getting out of my comfort zone and maybe redefining my comfort zone. Milan turned out to be a big step out of my comfort zone, but it also helped me redefine my boundaries and finding out what I am really comfortable with. I feel like I can more easily let go of control and just see where a situation takes me (although I still rather be in control). I learned that over-sharing information is not necessary, just because I always like to know everything, does not mean that other people need to know all the details. If you can’t come or you’re late, you don’t have to send an essay explaining why. I also learned to say yes more, even to things that I am not sure I will like. Plus if you want to do something, you should do it immediately, because you never know when you get the opportunity again.

So how was your year? I think reflecting on what you’ve done, what you’ve learned and how you’ve changed is very important. You are never done changing or learning, but it is important to sometimes be proud of yourself and think of how you can be an even better person.