Chapter 1: The Importance of Reflection

As the year comes to a close, it's essential to pause and reflect on the past twelve months. Taking the time to evaluate our experiences not only fosters self-awareness but also highlights our progress. Embrace the reflection process; your future self will appreciate it.

Photo by Serrah Galos on Unsplash

2023 has been a remarkable year for me both personally and professionally. On the work front, I made significant strides, including successfully completing my Azure Architect certification in September. This achievement was built upon my foundational knowledge from the Microsoft Security, Compliance, and Identity fundamentals course, which motivated me to pursue further learning through the Azure Administrator path. The journey was challenging, but stepping outside my comfort zone proved rewarding. As I look ahead to 2024, my goal is to remain in that challenging space and avoid complacency. This mindset has empowered me to embrace new challenges at work and see them through to completion.

Chapter 2: Embracing the World of AI

As a passionate technology enthusiast, I found myself captivated by the advancements in Generative AI throughout 2023. I began exploring tools like ChatGPT, OpenAI, and Midjourney, which sparked my curiosity about the underlying mechanisms of AI, starting with Machine Learning. This exploration provided a clearer picture of AI’s evolution and its future trajectory. I also took the time to digest insights from AI experts, especially regarding the need for regulation, through literature such as "The Coming Wave" by Mustafa Suleyman.

My commitment to learning didn’t stop there. I enrolled in various courses to deepen my understanding of AI fundamentals and advanced applications, particularly focusing on how Azure can facilitate both basic and complex AI development in a work setting. This ongoing education pushes me to expand my knowledge and delve into unfamiliar topics, ensuring I grasp the core concepts that truly matter for my skills enhancement. I am confident that these insights will pave the way for further opportunities and challenges in the coming year.

Chapter 3: The Power of Community and Personal Growth

Connecting with like-minded individuals on platforms like LinkedIn has been invaluable. I regularly engage with their contributions, recognizing their dedication to the tech community and their selfless sharing of knowledge.

On a personal note, I've maintained a daily journaling practice for an impressive 716 consecutive days! This habit allows me to reflect on my experiences over the past 24 hours and take stock of my emotions. Regardless of my schedule, I dedicate at least 5-10 minutes or around 500-600 words each day to this practice. I also document my exercise routines and highlight my achievements, which helps me celebrate successes and address areas needing improvement. Journaling has become a vital part of my daily rhythm.

Chapter 4: Staying Active and Engaged

This year, I have ramped up my physical activities. My routine typically includes running and brisk walking, aiming for daily cardio during the warmer months. When running isn’t feasible, I opt for extended walks. I strive for at least 22 minutes of cardio each day, and occasionally incorporate 15-20 minutes of weightlifting at home. Tracking my activities on Strava, and sometimes through the Apple workout app, has kept me motivated, especially with the support and encouragement from my followers.

Chapter 5: Rediscovering the Joy of Reading

In addition to physical activity, I’ve also committed to reading more physical books. I’ve discovered that I prefer the tactile experience of printed books over e-readers or audiobooks. This year, I indulged in various fiction genres, but biographies—like that of the legendary Brazilian footballer Pele—have truly captivated me.

Moreover, as a Medium platform subscriber, I’ve immersed myself in hundreds of articles across diverse fields, including Education, Business, Psychology, Writing, and Running, enhancing my learning journey.

Chapter 6: The Foundation of Support

Throughout this journey, the unwavering support of my family has been my bedrock. It’s easy to take their presence for granted, yet it’s essential to recognize how vital their encouragement is, no matter your life stage—whether you’re in a relationship, starting a family, or navigating the complexities of a mature one. They provide a listening ear and help lift me above any negativity that may arise. Here’s to embracing all that 2024 has to offer!