Reflecting on 2022, while looking forward to 2023

Early January is a time for reflection. People reflect on the year that has passed, as well as look at what is ahead in the coming year. I do this every year and often blog about my thoughts. When I look back at some of my previous reflective blog posts I realize I may have been a bit too negative. I am actually a pretty positive person, so with the posts, I am taking a more positive take on 2022.

For me, 2022 was a good year. I wouldn't call in a great year though. As with other years, there were many ups and downs. I learned to be more grateful in 2022 so as far as I am concerned the year was a success, but I also don't want to rest on my laurels. 2023 will be even better!

The Good

I was very productive in my work in 2022 and earned a good salary, learned new skills, and was overall happy with my work life.

I spent quality time with friends in 2022 and occasionally went outside of my comfort zone to attend events where I could make new friends. I tried new foods and restaurants and also new beers and wines.

I exercised quite a bit by going to the gym and walking and overall tried to eat healthily. I also meditated several times a week.

I redesigned this blog in WordPress using Oxygen for site building!

The Not So Good

As with most everybody, 2022 was a bad year for the stock market and my 401k and individual stocks took a big hit. It was a big learning lesson for me as I learned what goes up can come down, really far down. Growth stocks such as Tesla and Apple won't automatically make you rich in a few years. Investing is a long-time commitment and money should probably go into dividend stocks instead of the hot technology or Cryptocurrency (unless you like losing money).

While I had a decent year in 2022 I am really hoping 2023 will be a lot better. I intend to pay down a lot of debt in 2023, make new friends, have better relationships with people around me, and overall be a happier person. I want to continue learning a ton of new skills in 2023, be very happy at work, and be a pillar of the community.