24 Life Lessons I Learned in 2024



2024 has been a rollercoaster for me. After spending two years in quarantine back in 2020, I’m still adjusting to this new world, new colleagues, and a new workplace. It’s all so overwhelming. Everything feels dramatic, and everyone seems so different. Sometimes, I feel like I’m the only one struggling to catch up, painfully aware of how far behind I am. It’s like battling imposter syndrome as a grown-up. 

A friend once told me, “You look so happy; it seems like everything’s going great for you.” But let’s be real, who actually shares the ugly parts on social media? There were times when it felt like my entire world was crumbling, and I even caught myself wishing everyone else had a life as messy as mine. I ended up in a circle of people I never imagined being around, and it took months to find my footing. I met someone, went through a heartbreak, and I’ll never forget the days when I sat at my office desk, feeling like my life was falling apart, unable to stop crying. 

But amidst the chaos, I was fortunate to meet some incredible friends, people who brought me hope and reminded me that life is so much more than its struggles. Their kindness and connection were like a light cutting through a tough year. They taught me that it’s okay to take my time figuring out how this adult world works and reminded me of the countless blessings Allah has granted us to enjoy, instead of fixating on things beyond our control. They gave me the space to process my emotions and the courage to face the next day. What seemed like small gestures to them made a world of difference to someone like me who was struggling. I also learned to turn to Allah without hesitation, seeking His forgiveness, His help, and His guidance to keep me on the right path. Books became a source of comfort too, offering practical life tips that I’m trying to apply so I can make the most of my 20s instead of letting them slip by. 

So, here’s a list of life lessons I’ve carefully curated in my journal, insights I’ve gained throughout the year. And as the days go by, the list continues to grow.


Personal Growth & Self-Development 

  1. Never rely on humans; they are flawed, and you’ll end up disappointed. 
  2. Find solace within yourself—that’s what draws people to you. 
  3. Be active and explore your life. It’s never too late to try something new. 
  4. Sticking to your comfort zone won’t help you grow. True progress comes from embracing challenges and overcoming discomfort. 
  5. One time Focused deep work without distraction >> multi-tasking
  6. Failure is a normal part of life. It doesn’t define you—it’s part of the journey to becoming a better version of yourself.

Health & Wellness 

  1. Replace junk food with healthier snacks. 
  2. Sad to report that jogging is incredibly beneficial in your late twenties. It helps regulate your mood, provides mental clarity, and boosts stamina. 
  3. Always start your day with plain water—before reaching for coffee or anything sugary.



Relationships 

  1. Don’t let fear stop you from expressing love; it’s the key to forming deep, meaningful connections. 
  2. After expressing your love, don’t be afraid to step back if the relationship doesn’t align with your values. Don’t force what isn’t meant to be. 
  3. When your heart aches, pray for Allah to replace the pain with greater blessings. As mentioned in one hadith: Whoever gives up something for the sake of Allah, He will replace it with something better. 
  4. Don’t take things personally. When people speak negatively to you, they’re often projecting their own insecurities. 
  5. Don’t get defensive when people offer unsolicited advice. They may mean well, or they might just want to feel superior. Either way, say, “Thanks for your concern,” and move on. 

Productivity 

  1. Make a bucket list every year and try new things. It’s a great way to feel accomplished, boost confidence, and enjoy the process. 
  2. Finish what you start. When you feel like giving up, remember: it’s better to fail trying than to regret not doing anything. People with grit always see things through. 


Spiritual

  1. Make your good deeds visible. Spread kindness until it becomes the norm. 
  2. Bad people and tough situations will come your way. Instead of wasting energy on anger, focus on your well-being. Hardships are tests from Allah and opportunities for rewards. Take them as lessons, reflect, and move forward. 
  3. إِنَّ مَعَ الْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا holds true when you recognize blessings rather than focusing only on difficulties. Gratitude leads to more blessings, as Allah promises: لَئِن شَكَرْتُمْ لَأَزِيدَنَّكُمْ
  4. Shift from a victim mindset to being proactive, as Allah admonishes weak resignation, as mentioned in the Quran verse 4:97
    They reply: "We were weak and oppressed on earth". The Angels ask: “Was not the earth of Allah vast enough for you to emigrate therein?"

Financial  

  1. Hold off on impulsive shopping urges. Invest in one high-quality item instead of buying cheap, low-quality things that are often unethically made. This supports a minimalist, sustainable lifestyle. 
  2. You don’t need fancy coffee every morning. The caffeine at the office pantry works just fine. Save that money for something worthwhile.
  3. Don’t hold back when it comes to investing in your dreams and future goals—it’s always worth it! Want to level up your skills? Go ahead and buy that course. Thinking about getting a coach? Hire one. Setting aside a small part of your salary each month and spending it on things that bring you closer to achieving your dreams is far better than giving in to unnecessary shopping urges.
These are the 24 life lessons I’ve learned in 2024, and I’m deeply grateful to Allah for giving me the chance to experience and grow from them. May He bless us all with even more blessings and rizq in 2025. What are the lessons you’ve learned this year?
Read more →

5 Reasons to Read Budak Beca

To become a highly literate nation, it’s essential to make books more accessible to all Malaysians, particularly in the national language. This ensures that knowledge is not confined to a privileged group fluent in English but is available to everyone. Thankfully, many local publishers are taking significant steps to translate renowned global books into Malay, and I applaud these efforts. 

However, finding high-quality Malaysian novels remains a rare and challenging feat. While my limited exploration may be a factor, many readers often gravitate toward English novels for this reason; a missed opportunity, in my view. I'm all for supporting local writers and publishers, I’m always eager to discover and share hidden literary gems from Malaysia. When I stumbled upon one such gem, like Budak Beca, I  feel like I have to share it, to spread the word and shine a spotlight on our talented authors.




Budak Beca follows the journey of Mamat, who returns to his hometown in Terengganu after dedicating seven years of his life as a special police officer. Along the way, he meets Mustapha, that challenges his outlook and introduces him to new perspectives and valuable lessons. The book beautifully captures the essence of life in 1950s Malaysia while delivering timeless messages that still resonate today. Here’s why I think Budak Beca is worth your time:

Perfect for Exploring Malay Literature


Budak Beca serves as a wonderful entryway for those eager to delve into the world of Malaysian novels. With its captivating ambiance and engaging storytelling, the book presents readers with a rich tapestry of themes and characters that beautifully showcase the essence of Malay literature. Whether you are a seasoned reader or a newcomer, this novel provides a meaningful introduction to the cultural and literary heritage of Malaysia. Budak Beca is a great place to start if you’re looking to dip your toes into Malaysian novels. It’s got a unique vibe and gives you a solid intro to what Malay literature has to offer.


A Glimpse of Life Before and After Merdeka 


The story captures the essence of life during the pre- and post-Merdeka periods, offering fascinating insights into how society's mindset shifted during this pivotal time. Pak Sako voices his worries about Malaysians who exclaim 'Merdeka' without comprehending its genuine significance. It explores what was expected of citizens once Malaysia gained independence and examines how politicians and organizations worked to improve the country's situation after years of colonial rule.


A Dose of Reality with Social Critique 


This novel presents insightful social commentary, thoughtfully exploring important issues such as political corruption, the everyday challenges faced by ordinary Malaysians, and the growing divide between wealth and poverty. It also sheds light on the struggles of women, particularly how some face oppression in their domestic lives, with little support from the government, and resort to prostitution. Interestingly, many of these societal mindsets, such as chasing easy money and relying on luck, persist to this day, highlighting the book’s enduring relevance.


It’s Packed with Moral Values 


This book is packed with life lessons that hit home, even though the story is set in the 1950s. Pak Sako emphasizes how education can transform lives and criticizes the tendency of some Malays to prioritize fun and short-term pleasures over long-term planning and hard work. These themes remain strikingly relevant in today’s context. 


Celebrates Malay Cultural Arts 


I didn’t even know that art and culture night was a thing back in the 1950s. People celebrate poetry readings and other literature during this night. Pak Sako does such a beautiful job of weaving traditional Malay arts, especially poetry, into the story. It’s packed with verses that make you think and gives you a real taste of Malaysia’s cultural heritage.

In conclusion, Budak Beca is more than just a novel. It’s a thoughtful reflection on Malaysia’s cultural, societal, and historical landscape. Whether you’re interested in exploring Malay literature, understanding life during the Merdeka era, or simply enjoying a meaningful story, this book offers it all. It’s a must-read that reminds us of our roots and challenges us to reflect on our present and future.
Read more →

2024 in Review: What I Achieved and What’s Next

We’re at that time of year again—the season to look back on the past twelve months and prepare for what’s ahead. Reflection has always been one of my favorite rituals, helping me see how far I’ve come and set a clear direction for the future. 

Sometimes, it’s easy to feel like life is so stagnant and that you are stuck, in a loop, but when you take a step back and focus on what you’ve achieved, even the smallest wins stand out. One way I’ve found to track my growth is by creating a bucket list. It’s not just about ticking off goals; it’s about boosting my self-esteem and celebrating progress, no matter how big or small. I like to think that someday, my 50-year-old self will read this and feel proud of the intentionality I put into my twenties. For 2024, I'm all for being more productive, less anxious, and fostering a healthier emotional state.  


Volunteer with Teach for Malaysia (TFM)

One of my proudest moments this year was joining a three-month volunteer program with Teach For Malaysia. I taught three 11-year-old students, and balancing this commitment with night shifts was no easy feat. It tested my patience at every turn, as I shared in my previous post. Teaching children requires a tremendous amount of adaptability, and there were days when I questioned whether my efforts were making a tangible difference. However, I want to believe that this small effort had a lasting impact on their futures. I hope that the lessons and support I provided will serve these students well in the years to come, and the experience itself has left me with valuable insights about perseverance and the importance of contributing to meaningful causes.


Hiking

This one’s a big check! I hiked Bukit Kembara and had the best time soaking in the greenery, snapping stunning photos, and reconnecting with nature. It was such a refreshing experience. Hiking also gave me an opportunity to reflect, clear my mind, and embrace the beauty of the outdoors. I’m already making a list of new trails to explore next year, and I can’t wait to challenge myself with longer, more adventurous hikes that will push my limits while providing the same sense of tranquility.

Horseback Riding 

Partially checked. I completed ten classes and, unfortunately, fell off the horse twice. Despite the setbacks, I learned a lot and had so much fun. While I couldn’t join the year-end outride trip as planned, it’s definitely something I’m aiming for in 2025.

Traveling 

Checked and thriving! This year has been filled with incredible opportunities as I visited three amazing countries: Spain, Portugal, and India. I also had the joy of being part of a dear friend’s wedding in Terengganu, where I was honored to stand by her side as a bridesmaid. Additionally, I enjoyed a lovely birthday getaway in Langkawi, soaking in the breathtaking views and refreshing coastal vibes.  While I didn’t make it to Singapore or Indonesia as I had hoped—especially to attend the international book fair in Jakarta and explore all the charming bookstores—I can’t help but imagine myself next year, wandering through bookstore aisles, uncovering literary treasures, all while enjoying the lively local atmosphere. I’m excited to make 2025 even more memorable by embracing new adventures and those I’ve dreamed of for so long!

Read 50 Books 

Checked! While not every book made it onto my Goodreads account, I made sure to keep track of my reading manually. I've been exploring a variety of genres, including self-help, spiritual insights, and mystery fiction. Each book offered a unique perspective and often provided the clarity I needed during uncertain times. Some highlights this year include: Tasawuf Modern by Hamka, Where the Crawdads Sing—a beautiful masterpiece by Delia Owens, and Budak Beca by Pak Sako. Looking ahead to 2025, I’m excited to dive deeper into works that tackle life’s challenges through an Islamic lens. If you're on Goodreads, I’d love to connect and exchange book preferences! Do you have any recommendations? Please share them in the comments—I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!



Join a Fun Run Program 

Checked! Running 5km on weekends or rest days became my go-to stress reliever. I even joined a fun run organized by @scorexperience— and it was exhilarating! Running not only boosts physical fitness but also offers mental clarity and a sense of achievement. I’m already looking forward to more and longer distances charity runs, next year. It’s a hobby that I’m keen to nurture, hoping to challenge myself with a half-marathon someday, probably ten years in the future.

Rock Climbing

Absolutely checked! This has truly been one of my favorite highlights of the year. Rock climbing has been on my bucket list since the start of the year, and the rush of adrenaline I felt was incredible. The sense of accomplishment was out of this world and made even the toughest workdays feel so much more manageable. As for what’s next on my journey? I can’t wait to earn my climber’s certification in 2025! 

Learn Piano

Not quite checked. I’ve been on a bit of a journey with learning! I started to pick up some basic chords and even gave one song a try, but I found self-learning to be a bit more challenging than I had expected. I stopped learning in March and haven't touched the piano since then. It seems like I need a personal coach to make steady progress because I’m struggling to do it alone. 😢

Eat Healthier

Checked! While it may not match everyone’s idea of healthy, I can definitely say it’s a step up from last year! I’ve become more mindful of what I eat—I've cut back on sugary drinks and say goodbye to fancy coffees. Honestly, who needs those overpriced coffees when there's delightful free espresso waiting in the office pantry? Plus, I’ve traded in junk food for fresh fruits and started enjoying proper, nutritious meals!

This year, I also learned the phrase “mager” which is short for malas gerak in Indonesian, as it perfectly describes my introverted side so well. My used to ideal weekends are spent reading, journaling, doing chores, or catching up with friends one-on-one. But stepping out of my comfort zone—whether hiking, rock climbing, or trying out new things—gave me a sense of fulfillment that nothing else could. It’s that kind of exhaustion that leaves your heart full and happy.

Bismillah to stepping into 2025 with determination, confidence, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. I aim to prioritize personal growth, financial mindfulness, and healthier habits. As I close this chapter on 2024, I’m excited for the adventures and accomplishments awaiting me in the new year. Here’s to making 2025 a year of transformation and fulfillment!
Read more →

Teaching and Learning

Ever since my student days, I was always the go-to person for helping my peers with their studies. I thought I was a natural teacher - I explained things clearly and had all the patience in the world. This year, volunteering was at the top of my bucket list, so when I saw an ad on social media for tutoring, I was thrilled. Tutoring felt like second nature to me, and I’d been wanting to give back in this way for a long time.​

So, I began my teaching volunteer program. But I quickly learned that teaching is a whole different ballgame. That first month was pure chaos. I struggled to simplify my explanations to match the kids' level of understanding. Every student had different needs, and I had to adapt my teaching methods accordingly. And then there’s the challenge of keeping kids focused. They get distracted so easily, tire out after just a few questions, and constantly ask to go to the bathroom. To top it off, other students would interrupt our lessons, and I had to handle those who liked to talk back. The most disheartening part? Seeing my students struggle with their tests despite all my efforts. It felt like my words were falling on deaf ears, and I began questioning why I was even there. That’s when it hit me - teaching is not for everyone, especially someone with a temper - like me. The respect I have for teachers has skyrocketed. 

Did all of this get me down? Absolutely. My motivation took a nosedive. I no longer looked forward to teaching; it seemed like none of the students were grasping anything. Preparing lessons felt like a chore, and creating assessments became a headache.

I questioned whether backing out was the right choice, but what is growth without its share of pain. It’s through these challenges that we truly develop. My supervisor always reminds us at the end of our session: teaching is also a form of learning, and ​ I've learned a great deal about patience and adaptability. I started incorporating more interactive activities to keep the kids engaged. Seeing them respond positively to these new methods was such a highlight. My students began to participate more actively, which was incredibly rewarding.​ 


Recently, new volunteers joined, including two who are now co-tutors with me, which is a great help to me. Seeing them go through the same challenges I faced just a month ago has really made me think about my own journey. It’s a nice reminder of how much I’ve grown. I’ve also noticed how effortlessly I’ve bonded with my students over time, so much so that the progress felt almost invisible. It’s pretty cool to see how far I’ve come. 

This three-month journey has really taught me patience and how to connect with people outside my usual circle. I can’t wait to keep making a difference, one lesson at a time!
Read more →
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)

Latest Finds

A collection of the most recently-discovered products I love and recommend!
SHOP ALL FINDS →