25 in 25 — Life in review mode
To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.
When I read that Oscar Wilde quote 20 minutes back, I knew I had to write something on this.
I turned 25 earlier this month and was reflecting on some of the things I’ve gone through, learnt and accomplished so far. I was also musing on the regrets and the mistakes. It’s been quite a ride I must say.
It took me less than twenty minutes to write this and I’m thinking it’ll take you that many seconds to scroll through ! Here goes…
Was born to the most amazing parents. That goes for most of us right ? :D
Lived in 2 diverse cities with perhaps nothing in common, except for the awesome human beings
The best moments of my life have been in Chennai. It’s a city that loves you back, unconditionally.
Kolkata is the city of joy, a city that brings back 15 years of fond memories and a lot of positivity.
Made amazing friends
In school, in college, while playing on the streets, while travelling and at work.
Got an engineering degree
Although the degree is practically of no use now, those four years of college, were just brilliant!
Bunked school and college. A lot. Made memories
Sometimes, it’s better to bunk a class and enjoy with friends, because now, when I look back, marks never make me laugh, but memories do. ~APJ Abdul Kalam
Learnt to enjoy the little things in life
Enjoy the little things in life because one day you’ll look back and realise they make the big things. ~Kurt Vonnegut
Working in a startup
Worked crazy hours with crazy targets and a crazier team! Finally convinced that I’m making a small dent, in my own way!
Chose the best mentors possible, personally and professionally!
People I learnt and still learn a lot from.
Travelled international but like a local
With a backpack. Figured humans anywhere are the same, only cultures differ.
Regretted a lot of stuff and moved on, like a boss
We all do things we desperately wish we could undo. Those regrets just become part of who we are, along with everything else. To spend time trying to change that, well, it’s like chasing clouds.
Started investing
Not as early as Warren Buffet would’ve liked me to, but it’s a start.
Made mistakes. So many of them
Remember being embarrassed and flush-faced then. It’s all a funny anecdote now :)
Learnt to Cook
Those who watch Masterchef won’t be proud, but you’ll survive after eating the food.
Realised trains are awesome. Agree ?
Stopped judging people based on ANYTHING
If you respect me, I will respect you.
Started taking health seriously and making time for exercise
Started reading. A lot.
Paperback then, Kindle now.
Made a wee bit of difference in the lives of the lesser privileged
Still do.
Transitioned from a hardcore introvert to a little less introvert
I’ll respond to your questions with more than just a ‘Yes' or ‘No’.
Spent a lot of time with the people I love.
Best times ever.
Learnt to live everyday as if it’s the last one yet
Never felt freer.
Learnt to help people, even strangers without expecting things in return
You grow when the people around you grow. You are happy when they are happy.
Started learning a musical instrument
Happened by chance. Happy it happened.
Started writing on Medium to express my thoughts
It’s only here that words speak more than actions :)
So, did you count 25 ?
