Personal Statement 2024

I am grateful that, towards the end of the year, I read Dr. Stephen Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." This book is a necessity in my life; I super need it. The year 2023 was chaotic and defining. We almost reached rock bottom, but we managed to stay alive, both literally and figuratively.

I seldom revisit books, but this one will be my guide in the years to come. Unfortunately, Dr. Covey passed away more than a decade ago, but his legacy lives on. This book saved my life and helped me process the chaos around me. Moreover, it enabled me to support my loved ones in the ordeal we faced.

While there were many statements I quoted from this book, one valuable takeaway is the importance of creating a personal statement. It's akin to a mission statement for companies, but Dr. Covey encourages us to create one as individuals.

So, I spent the remaining days of last year crafting a personal statement. This isn't a one-time effort because the statement is meant to endure as long as one lives. It should remain relevant at all times, not confined to the present moment. The personal statement should be centered on principles rather than the people or concepts in one's life because, while people and concepts change, principles don't. I encourage you to get a copy of this book and read it. You might find it as impactful as I did.

I hesitated to share my statement because I might not be able to fulfill it. However, the essence of my blog is to document my thoughts — a part of my growth as a woman and an individual. Posting this is also a way of challenging myself to fulfill this statement.

So, here you go, ladies and gents: Ana's personal statement 2024:

I strive to:

1. Downsize and upgrade

2. Reward my present self as much as I reward my future self

3. Stay humble and curious

4. Be brave enough to make mistakes in the spirit of learning

5. Perform all of my duties with consistency and honesty

6. Form, nurture, and mend valuable relationships through trust and respect

7. Listen empathically

8. Kindly let go of relationships that are harmful to myself

9. Manage my time well

Each word and line above is loaded with context and meaning. I choose "strive," for instance, because I know that living up to this statement requires hard work. Perhaps, I might write a more detailed blog on each of them in the near future. But for now, this will do.

How about you? If you were to write your personal statement, how would it go?

May the upcoming year bring you joy and growth! Happy 2024!