Dear 2014

Dear 2014, 

Welcome. I'm so glad you're here! I know we have 365 days to get acquainted with one another (God willing) but I'd like to tell you how relieved I am to have you here. 2013 was not easy on me, though I must admit it did bring me plenty of happiness, blessings and opportunities, alhamdulillah. In anticipation of your arrival, I wrote a list of fourteen things I learned in 2013 so I can refer to them from time to time.

I know it's too soon to tell but I have a feeling we'll make a good team. Let's do this!

xox, Sha

1. Whatever you set out to do in life, be prepared to learn and work hard. Be prepared to also be disappointed — in yourself, your boss, your colleagues, your business partners, your friends etc. — and understand that it is part of the learning process.

2. Keep calm, be positive and have faith because "everyday holds the possibility of a miracle." (quote by Elizabeth David)

3. Learn to stand up for yourself graciously. 

4. Life is not about what you get but what you give.

5. Having good character is the best way to teach others about your faith. 

6. Be grateful. Take time to enjoy life and Allah's blessings upon you. Blessed are those who don't have everything but feel as if they do.

7. Not everything is going to work out well but something will. 

8. Your family can drive you crazy but love them anyway, especially your parents. It's the one thing you will never regret.

9. When you're having a bad day remember something that makes you smile. Like that Charlie Chaplin cat you met on Mantanani Island. 

10. The secret to turning your life around is to know what you want, not give up on it and last but not least, not dwell on mistakes. Learn from them instead. Again and again. 

11. Eating right, exercising and drinking at least 3 litres of water a day can do more for your skin and body than most products claim they can do for you.

12. To be at peace with yourself you must take care of yourself - mind, body and soul. Taking care of yourself is not about being selfish. Be kind to yourself because your well-being makes an impact on others.

13. What you believe in your heart is more important than any words you could ever say.

14. Surround yourself with good people. Choose your advisors, companions and comrades (a.k.a. your friends) wisely. And if possible, choose who you work with carefully too.