Yearly reflections: My big three for 2023
Well, it’s that time again. Christmas trees are up. Suburban houses declare their holiday cheer with an assault of glistening lights and glowing reindeer atop usually-barren terracotta rooves. We prepare, collectively, to share in end of year celebrations; a welcome wind down from the grind that comes with those first eleven months. Those who still indulge in the paper diary are picking out the cover that will get them through the next twelve.
And, as one is wont to do amidst Spotify wrapped Instagram stories, heartfelt Facebook posts, and twitter threads inviting me to make 2023 my best yet (follow my Substack to learn how!), I find myself prompted into reflection on the last 360-odd days.
In some ways, this year has been challenging. At a personal level, I’ve taken a seat on the periphery of some loss and some illness. I’ve also experienced some great highs. At a professional level, the year has been characterised by hard work, growth, and questioning. Questioning within my topic of research, because I started doctoral studies this year, but also questioning myself; where I want to go, what I want to focus on, and what’s important. That journey is ongoing. The three ideas below are ones that, in one way or another, came into focus for me this year, which I hope to carry into 2023.
