Let's Talk: Birthdays

Birthdays birthdays!

It's already three days past my birthday! I kept hesitating to post this because, honestly, I'm still figuring out what makes a "LinkedIn-worthy" post. But then I realized, celebrating my own accomplishments is an achievement itself, and what better platform than Let's Talk, where we share openly and authentically? So, here goes nothing!

Each year you know I have a word or thousand to say about a day that rationally does not mean much, but what’s the fun in rational?

This year, I’m 29. Honestly, that’s 20 years older than I feel. I wonder what it means to be 29. I don’t think there’s a right answer, but it feels amazing. Because this year was full of achievements, I worked harder than ever and enjoyed it! I reached some of the goals I set for myself, explored new places, and treated myself and my loved ones generously. What more can I ask for?

Most importantly, I loved myself! I’m in love with who I am today, my values, my flaws, my work ethic and even my procrastination. And I learned that happiness comes from within.

I always try to measure where I am in life with my inner child’s perspective, and it makes me proud to know that 12-year-old Pomy would be pleased to know where and who I am today. I learned that this is my life and that I can make it as spectacular as I want to. I learned that I’m not too small for the world; I learned what it feels like to be alive.

And, I definitely learned it's time to reclaim my birthday! Forget societal expectations and self-celebrate. I realized planning my own birthday isn't selfish, it's actually empowering. It's a chance to create an experience that reflects my desires. Hence, this year, I decided to break the norm of not planning anything for my birthday, and I did something bold. I booked a trip for myself, a solo adventure to a foreign land. Was I nervous? Sure. But I don’t let fear stop me (unless it’s a spider) so I went for it.

After all, I’m almost where I’m supposed to be. Almost.

I know 29 will change me–but I promised myself I wouldn’t let it change all of me, and I intend to keep that promise.

Anyway, happy birthday to me and I’m so grateful for all the people in my life who support me, inspire me, and make me better. You are the best gift I could ever have.

I can’t wait for next year to be even more productive successful, grateful and filled with self-love.