Looking Back on 2008

I meant to post this yesterday, but eating and drinking got in the way of finishing it!

As the year draws to a close, it's the ideal time to look back and review the highs and lows. This year was the start of my writing journey -- the end of my corporate life. It was difficult for me to give up the vision of corporate success I'd been striving towards since leaving university. I'd always taken pride in being good at my job and successful in the working environment. But the past few years have shown me that getting promotions and making more money doesn't automatically equal happiness. Sounds obvious, but I found it a hard lesson to come to terms with.


So over the past year, I've been my own boss. A scary concept, being in charge of yourself. I found that I needed to be constantly vigilant, on my guard against my more slothful side which would whisper in my ear: It's OK to take a little nap! Go get that piece of cake in the kitchen! You've worked hard, take a little break!


I've overcome those voices to some extent, producing three novels -- one that's completely finished, and two that are in varying stages. I'm proud that I've managed to do that in my first year, despite having a part-time job which sometimes morphed into a full-time job.


So without further ado, here are my best bits of 2008:
- It goes without saying that the best thing this year has been starting my serious writing journey.
- Travelling home in August to see my parents, my new nephew and one of my best friends get married.
- A weekend trip to Berlin to fill my eyes with theatre, art and an alternative scene unlike any other.
- Receiving a very inspiring critique on my second novel from the Literary Consultancy.
- Celebrating the completion of my first novel with a feast of burgers and chips.

All in all, it was a great year, and I'm looking forward to 2009! Happy New Year!