My Birthday Reflection

A birthday is more than just a time to celebrate—it’s an opportunity to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey life has offered. Today is my birthday, and it also marks the beginning of what I call “The Winter Arc,” a period from October to January where many of us experience a shift in mindset, a time for introspection as the year begins to wind down.

Being born on October 1st has always made me feel special as if I owned the month. As a child, I felt unique until I went to school and realised others shared the same birthday. It wasn’t until later, during secondary school, that I truly began to enjoy sharing my day with others—a shift that came with the maturity of growing older.

As I step into my mid-thirties, there’s been another shift in how I approach my birthday. While I still plan to celebrate, this year feels different. It’s less about pride in my achievements and more about appreciation—appreciation for the people and experiences that have shaped my journey.

I’m grateful for all of it, to the bullies from school, who taught me how to stand tall and gave me the determination to pursue my goals relentlessly. To the grief and illness I’ve faced, for showing me I have the strength to endure deep pain and come out stronger. To the professional failures that taught me that without falling, you can't grow. And to the losses in competitions and business that humbled me, reminding me that success isn't about winning but about being proud of how far you’ve come.

To my friends and family, I owe my gratitude for showing me that it’s okay to rely on others. You’ve taught me the importance of community and support, and I’ve never felt alone because of you. To my pets over the years, for teaching me unconditional love and responsibility. And to my managers and colleagues, who have been there when I needed help, for teaching me the true meaning of teamwork.

I also have deep gratitude for my teachers, both in life and career, for giving me the knowledge to navigate this world. To the medical professionals I’ve encountered, thank you for alleviating my pain and fostering hope. To my LGBTQ+ brothers and sisters, for reminding me that I am normal and worthy just as I am. And to society as a whole, for offering me a place where I can appreciate the good, the bad, and the different.

As I reflect on this Winter Arc, instead of focusing on the next big achievement, I find myself taking a step back to truly appreciate what I already have. I’m also thinking of how I can pay it forward because there’s nothing more valuable than being proud of how you've touched the lives of others.

If you see a colleague overwhelmed or a new hire struggling, give them a hand. If you witness someone being picked on, offer them kindness. When you see a homeless person or a displaced family, show them grace and respect. Smile at an elderly neighbor and ask how they’re doing. And most importantly, tell your friends and family how much you care about them.

Life’s true value isn’t measured by what we achieve for ourselves, but by how we make others feel. As I celebrate this birthday and embrace the Winter Arc, I’m filled with gratitude for the love, lessons, and experiences so far. Here’s to the journey ahead—may it be filled with kindness, reflection, and paying it forward.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of my story. Let's continue to uplift each other.