Thanks, 2015.

2015 was a year of change.

When I rang in the new year in New York City with Angela on the eve of 2015, I knew precious little of what the year would hold. It was anything but ordinary.

2015 was a year of appreciation. I witnessed one of my best friends Sam getting married to his lovely wife, and appreciated the power of love. I quit my job at Google, and appreciated the outpouring of support from friends and coworkers. I appreciated the time I got to spend with my family, because when you count it all out, every moment is precious. And I appreciated the meaningful conversations I’ve had with friends (you know who you are), conversations that spur me to grow.

2015 was a year of traveling. Between many trips to New York City (thanks Matthew for tolerating my existence), I traveled a lot more than I expected, and am deeply grateful for the opportunities. I learned to rappel in a Puerto Rico cave adventure with Angela, and caught ourselves in San Se, one of the biggest Caribbean festivals. I took my first international trip with my parents, spending a week in Melbourne (so many flat whites!) and another in Beijing. I explored the Mountain states, New Orleans (Jazzfest!), and Austin (BBQ!) with good friends. I lived 3 months in London, discovering both a new culture and great deal about myself (with a side trip to Scotland). Finally, I got to see Greece, spending time on a land that have long captured my fancy. Sorry for being an absentee roommate, Andy; I’ll do better.

2015 was uncomfortable. Learning how to code as a Google engineer was the most intellectual challenging thing I’ve done since college (here’s how it went on day 8 and day 29). Making the decision to quit Google and work on Emote with Julian — leaving a predictable life behind — was the most emotionally demanding decision I’ve made. I don’t regret either, and have grown tremendously as a result. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

2015 was eye-opening. I expanded my perspective on life and technology. Tech-wise, I learned more about machine learning, product management, design, about entrepreneurship. Life-wise, I’ve experienced more about friendship, vulnerability, leadership, and how to lead a life that I want. I started writing more (follow me on Medium!), because I found that communicating effectively is not only hard, but crucial.

2015 was made easier because of the genuine support I know I can count on from my friends and family — thank you. And thank you especially to Angela, who manages to always encourage me to be a better self.

I don’t know what 2016 will hold (it’s a leap year, so it will probably be magical), and I haven’t made my annual plans yet. However, I will commit to this: I will approach every day with positivity, and continue to grow.

Thanks, 2015.

Hello, 2016.