Year end for most people is the best time for a quiet reflection on how the year has gone by. Like most people, 2011 was an eventful year and for me, it was filled with ups and downs.

Even though I am not the type of person that actually make up new year resolution at the beginning of every year, I did, however, make a list of 3 simple things to be completed by 2011. Sadly, so far only 1 has been accomplished. Looks like I got to move that 2 other tasks to 2012.

Nevertheless, hopefully by reflecting on several important events of 2011, maybe it is possible to connect the dots by looking backwards since it is impossible to connect the dots by looking forward, quote Steve Jobs.

Life and Death

The sudden passing of a good friend’s parent was truly shocking and sad. It reminded me that life is precious and my time in this world is limited. The chase for more material things will not bring true happiness. Instead, showing more compassion and caring towards people around me will lead more fulfillment in life. As per our wise Yoda teacher, “You must feel the force around you”.

Health

The only task that I am able to achieve for 2011 and darn proud of myself is the fact I started running and even signed up for not 1 but 4 marathons. Since young, I always admire marathon runners as they are physically fit and have the determine mindset to finish the run. For me, hopefully it is a beginning of a healthy lifestyle. Hey, age is catching up, no more young, so better don’t play-play with health.

Work

For 2011, I have the privilege to work with 4 great minds in terms of work and research. It is both rewarding and refreshing to observe and learn how great minds work.

Even though not something to shout about, the final output for 2011 was 8 International conference papers and 4 Journal papers. Looking forwards for 2012 for better results and output! *hint to 4 great minds*

Travel

2011 was a year filled with travel plans too. Visited Phoenix (USA), Bali (Indonesia), London, Paris and Iceland. Had the opportunities to captured some of the finest travel photos.

Notable travelled places – travelled to Apache Trail of Arizona, hiked Mount Batur of Bali, travelled to Eyjafjallajökull, the famous volcano of Iceland, Palace of Versailles, France and of course, the best of all, chance of a life time, witnessed with my own eyes, the wonderful natural beauty of Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights at Iceland.

As for 2012, I am really looking forwards for more great destinations and witness the natural beauty of our beloved planet earth. Yup, it is time to start planning. If you are interested, let’s go travel together!

2012

I am not really an optimistic person and not very often can I look back on a year and say, “Wow, that was an awesome year.” At the end of the day, I guess what really matters is to cherish all the happy and good moments and hope for the best. 2012 will be a better year.

Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year 2012! Have another great year ahead.

Remember,
“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving” – Albert Einstein