2022 A Year in Review (Part 1)
Edited on May 17th, 2025:
Greetings to all the inspiring minds here! I hope you are all doing well and taking a moment to reflect on the past year. As we are nearing the end of 2022, it is the perfect time to look back and think about the moments that defined this year whether they were filled with adventure, lessons learned, or just simple joys.
So, let us dive in and reflect on some of the highlights of this year, and maybe even share a few laughs along the way!
Looking back, this time last year, I was in a completely different place physically, emotionally, and mentally. So much has changed over the past year. There were challenges, of course, but also some truly incredible moments. 2023 was something special.
Anyway, I came across a post on Pinterest titled “New Year: 15 Questions Year-End Review” from boxwoodbliss.com, and I thought it would be a great way to reflect. So, I amm going to go through and answer their questions. Grab a pen and paper or open up your notes app, let us do this together!
1) One word to describe the year:
Challenging.
2023 has definitely been a year of challenges both expected and unexpected. But through it all, I have learned so much about myself and the world around me.
2) Best thing you did for someone else this year?
This ones tough because my parents have done a lot for me. But when an opportunity would arise, such as when I have a day off, I would schedule plans so that we could share breakfast together out somewhere.
3) Favorite movie of the year?
Hmm, I am not much of a movie person, so I cannot say I have a favorite, at least not this year.
4) Favorite show of the year?
I caught up on “Murders in the Building”. I love that it has such a great comedic spin take with a mystery series.
5) Most embarrassing moment of the year?
Oh, this one is a classic! It was a super quiet day, so quiet that you could literally hear a pin drop. I was leaving a voicemail, and as I was mid-sentence, I heard, “Now you can leave a message, beep!”. Upon realizing the mistake, I called back and after waiting for the beep, I left a proper message.
6) Times you laughed the hardest this year?
There have been so many moments this year that it is hard to pick just one! But my friends always manage to make me laugh whether it is the funny stories they share or just the hilarious embarrassing moments I experience. Those closest to me seem to have this magic ability to brighten any day and get me laughing non-stop.
7) Something you learned to do/Never done before?
This year, I have had the chance to really embrace some quiet, uninterrupted time for myself. It has been a unique experience learning to fully appreciate my own space, and I have found comfort in the peace and solitude it brings. It is not something I had the opportunity to focus on in the past, but I have definitely grown from it.
8) Most newsworthy event?
Right now, Chicago is dealing with a blizzard! It is -6°F, but with the windchill, but it feels like -33°F. The weather has been a big topic lately!
9) Biggest lessons learned?
This year, I have learned the power of following my heart. It is amazing how when you truly listen to what feels right, it teaches you the most important lessons in life. Following your heart can guide you to what truly matters, and it helps you stay aligned with what is best for you.
10) Favorite place you visited this year?
This past summer, I had the chance to visit Lake Geneva, and it was the perfect getaway. The weather was absolutely beautiful. It was hot with clear blue skies and no clouds in sight. I spent the day with my parents, strolling around the local shops, enjoying a delicious meal at OakFire (thanks to a friend’s recommendation), and soaking up the sun at the beach. It was such a refreshing and relaxing day!
11) Most memorable moment/day of the year?
There is not just one day that stands out. This year was filled with so many fun moments that it is tough to narrow it down to pick just one. Every day seemed to bring something memorable in its own way.
12) Best advice you received this year?
The best advice I received this year was to make a big move and embrace a fresh start. It is one of those pieces of advice that really encouraged me to take a leap of faith and open myself up to new experiences and opportunities.
13) An achievement you are proud of this year?
One thing I am really proud of this year is creating a document for my job. It was a great learning experience, and I am glad it turned out well. I also made some personal changes that I am proud of too.
14) Reminisce on one great compliment you received this year.
One of the nicest compliments I received this year was that I seem much more confident. I do feel that is true as I have really grown into myself this year. Every day, I focus on becoming a better version of myself, and I think it has shown.
15) What or whom are you most thankful for this year?
There are a few things I am really thankful for this year, but most of all, I am grateful for my family and friends. Their support and presence has meant so much to me.
To be continued...
In the meantime, enjoy the rest of what 2022 has to offer! I would love to hear about your favorite adventure or craziest experience from the past year.
As a signature of my blog, I’d like to end this post with a suggestion to “Pass on kindness.” There’s no time like the present to Inspire Those Who Inspire You. Acts of kindness, no matter how big or small, can have a direct, positive impact on someone else. Go out there today and change someone’s life for the better!
***These are my personal opinions and may not be those of my employer.***
