Well hello to you my reader chums! I cannot believe we're coming to the end of 2022, this has to be one of the quickest years ever. I never thought I would be where I'm at now at the beginning of 2022; this year has done a 360 turn in a good way. 

I love seeing people's highlights of the year and reading about their accomplishments, hence why I also like to write mine down. It's something that'll be great to read back on as the years go on. Whether you love a highlights post like me or want to share yours, here are my successes of 2022.

Travelling to five different places

Travelling is the love of my life and during 2020 and 2021, because of the pandemic, I couldn't travel as much as I wanted to. However, in 2022, with the world going back to somewhat normal and travel laws lifting again, I could fulfil my travel dreams and stick to my five trips a year rule. This year, I visited Budapest, Stockholm, Dubrovnik, and Sicily and visited my best friend in Dubai, as well as a staycation in London. 

Going on my first solo trip

I've always wanted to do a solo trip, however, I wasn't brave enough and the opportunity never arose. Although at the beginning of this year when a friend couldn't make a trip I had booked, I ended up going alone. Initially, I was hesitant, but when I arrived I fell in love with the solo travel way of life. There was so much freedom and pride as I walked around exploring a new city on my own accord, and on my own schedule. When I look back at 18-year-old me who was basically terrified of my own shadow, I can't help but beam with pride. 

Building my freelance writing business

Being a freelance writer has been a dream of mine for a very long time and this year it has really become a reality. I set myself the goal at the beginning of the year to be full-time freelance at the end of it and I'm excited to say, that's exactly what I've done. I've managed to build up a clientele of regular clients and one-off exciting projects in freelance writing and social media management, and honestly, I couldn't be happier. It's definitely been a year of learning in all aspects of freelance, as well as developing my writing craft further. Although it has been hard at times, I've loved every minute.

Meeting my partner

I never thought this year would be a year where I found the partner of my dreams. I genuinely thought I would be single for years and I was happy doing so, looking for a partner wasn't even on the cards and then he walked into my life, and it was the best thing that ever happened to me. I feel incredibly grateful to meet someone who loves me unconditionally, supports me and encourages me every step of the way. We are a team.

Finding an exercise routine I like

I love to exercise and keep active, it really benefits my mental and physical health, as well as boosts my productivity for the day. In 2021, I was all about the gym, going most days and really enjoying it, however by the beginning of this year, I found it wasn't really my thing anymore. Instead, I've fallen in love with pilates and now do that every day as well as a combination of dance workout routines.

Moving out

Moving out of my parent's home has been on the agenda for a while now, however, the right opportunity never came. This year, that changed and I moved out of my hometown with my partner and couldn't be happier in my new home.

Booking a backpacking trip

I've been dreaming of returning to south-east Asia since 2019, the last time I went and this year, I've booked a trip for next year, for a total of three months and I cannot wait. I'm incredibly excited to get my backpack out again and experience the freedom backpacking entails, as well as explore many new countries.

Reaching my savings goals

I've been extensively saving this year in order to book myself the backpacking trip and I was excited that not only did I save the amount I wanted, but I also exceeded it, giving me some extra money in my savings account.

Learning to put myself first

As a people pleaser who loves to care for everyone around me, I always found it hard to put my needs before everyone else's. However, this year, I've started to put myself first a bit more, learning my needs are just as important as everybody else's.

Developing stronger bonds with family and friends

Developing my self-love journey has meant falling in love with myself more, I've learned to love and be grateful for the relationships around me more, growing stronger bonds. I'm incredibly lucky to be surrounded by some wonderful friends and the most supportive and loving family, and partner.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What are your successes?

Thank you for reading <3