In 2018, I intended to embark on a new path of optimism, confidence, growth, advancement, and reinvention. I vowed to let the good times and good vibes reign free throughout the year.

In many ways, those sentiments rang true as I navigated through 2018 and began writing out this new chapter of my life story.  From the start, I knew this year was going to be a significant one, as it marked the last year of my twenties. With that brought up expectations to check off a multitude of accomplishments and milestones, from “go on a road trip with friends” (check!) to “start writing a book” (check!). To me, there was no time to waste, and thus, 2018 really lit a fire within me to do all of the things.

When things didn’t go according to plans or hopes, I would later find that things always ended up working out for the best. The trials, with its subsequent triumphs and errors, of embarking on new experiences led me closer to discovering more about who I am and what I want, which I think is the key to unlocking my sense of happiness. With each hard lesson learnt, I was determined to rise back up every time, which I did with varying ease and difficulty, and prevailed in becoming stronger and better than who I was yesterday.

What have I learned in 2018 that I will carry on to 2019? I’ve learned to have confidence in my self worth, to be bold in standing up for what I deserve, and to have patience with timing, with opportunities, and with people. Because whatever will be, will be (que sera sera). All I need now is some faith and some trust (and a little pixie dust). With that in mind, I’m more ready than ever to go forth and reign my thirties.

As we get ready to say “thank u next” to 2018, I’d like to share some of the moments that made this year a transformative one…

Throughout the year, I’ve been compiling a page of memories from 2018 — including notable experiences I had, concerts I attended, music I listened to, movies I watched, television shows I  followed, and books I read — and now the time capsule is complete! Check it out here at Scrapbook 2018.