25

I just turned 25. A quarter of a century. Reading all those wall posts on Facebook and Twitter made me realize how forgetful I've been of people's and friends' birthdays.. and how rare I've had the chance to really peruse the social networks online.

Okay, I have my arguments. I'm currently editing my very first published novel, and I've just completed the first phase. I need to work on it a bit more before sending the polished version to my editor. I'm also working on a compilation book - this current project from my publisher. I'm really honored to be given a chance to work with other famous writers :-)

I also have a couple of other personal projects to work on. Some are still unfinished ideas in mind, some are half written never finished.. I do hope I can finish them in my spare time.

I'm also working on our coffee shop project. Right now The U Coffee is selling books from Gagas Media/Trans Media.. and we're having membership programs, so discounts for book purchase and food and beverages.

Nevertheless, being 25 makes me reflect back on what I've accomplished, and what I haven't finished. It's kind of convenient that my birthday happens to fall on the first week of January each year, so that I can make a new year's resolution as well as a new age resolution.

Last year, 2010 and being 24, I had finally stepped out of my own shell and made decisions. That involved tears, sweat, arguments, emotions, sadness, happiness all at once. I think being in my mid twenties has somehow shaped me up to be tougher, to be better, to be wiser, to be just.. different. I've stopped being in my comfort zones, being exposed to heartbreaks and inevitable hurt, the things I've always thought that I'd never have to experience, being this sheltered, protected, much-loved person.

But this pain.. I needed that. I still am not strong enough to face it, and I'm not as mature as I'd like to be.. but I'm doing my best.

Not just in the personal development area. I quit my job of four years. I did not publish a book (to my dismay). I ran out of inspirations, scrambling for what was left of my sanity and ideas. But finally.. I emerged. I guess. I started having dreams that were different than the ones I used to have, and not just having them.. but fulfilling them, together.

Nearing the end of the year, I've thought out projects for the things I'd like to do in 2011. So my personal resolutions have come to be:

1. Book writing, book projects, book publishing
I don't think I'll be involved in lots of book-related events, like I did back in 2010. Even though I wasn't really writing, I was lucky to be invited to several gatherings and talkshows. This year, I'll focus on writing - short stories for print, articles, how-to books, novels, book compilations. Let's hope my inspirations won't go awry for me :-)

2. Personal development
Personal growth that involves self-love, self-worth, maturity, and love to everyone around me. I want to grow. I want to be better - though better has no target. I want to be more grateful, be appreciative of every little thing and person around me.

3. Business development
Career wise, I'm also going to try my best.

I know every resolution sounds a bit vague, but I don't want to set too high a target. I'm just going to do my best in every situation, regardless of everything else. So here's my late birthday resolution.

Here's to being twenty five :-) the above picture sounds narcissistic, but I'm 25 and I'm allowed to have a little fun.

And to add, this year's birthday celebration is small and secluded, but is one of the best I've ever had in my life, thanks to my lovely boyfriend with his endless surprises and warmth, my mother's 6-course cooking, and my dad.. (and my brother, who's sadly not home with us at the moment).