001 – A Fresh Start
07-Nov-2021
I turned 33 this Monday.
For a new year’s resolution, I decided to write a weekly newsletter (or at least to start).
As a simple framework, I chose “6 Life Aspects” to briefly discuss…
The State of the Darren
1: Physical Health
I am generally in good health, thankfully.
I try to go to the gym Wed/Fri/Sun, and run Tues/Thu/Sat when possible.
I am also cultivating healthier habits. Sleep around 10, wake about 6am; no coffee after 12 or tea after 3pm. Lots of water, and yoga stretching where possible.
Next year, I hope to…
- Have tried out BJJ, and done more Bouldering
- Reach personal best (squat/DL body weight, and beat 40kg on OHP/bench/row)
- Improve posture and do a great downward dog
2: Family & Relationships
Family relationship is healthy and positive, but could be better.
Dating life is nonexistent.
Need to be closer with friends.
Next year, I hope to…
- Charm family more. Bring more moments of joy.
- Have initiated more dinner parties/board game nights.
- Be more proactive about going on dates and doing cool things.
3: Work & Career Prosperity
I quit my job, so this is a little up in the air.
Next year, I hope to…
- Have built a personal brand on email + LinkedIn
- Start a YouTube + Blog for comedy sideline.
- Be invited for a talk/interview
4: Wealth & Money Satisfaction
Doing okay, actually.
Have a clearer view of week-to-week and month-to-month expenditures.
Next year, I hope to…
- Own Eth + Crypto; bought some REITs
- Have developed all-weather portfolio with bond/stocks
- Bought term/life insurance
5: Spiritual Wellness
I haven’t worked on this at all.
Next year, I hope to…
- Have a practice of meditation
- Be comfortable with self-listening and introspection.
6: Mental Strength
I haven’t worked on this so well.
Next year, I hope to…
- Regularly spend time in reflection.
- Have unbelievable belief #BELIEVE
- Become confident and develop integrity with myself.
Recommendations & Reads
Right now, I’m reading:
- Jimmy Carr’s The Naked Jape and Before & Laughter
- Derek Sivers’ Hell Yes or No
- (still) What Colour is Your Parachute
This week, I read:
- KJ Parker’s 16 Ways to Defend A Walled City and How To Rule An Empire And Get Away With It
- The entire comic run of Locke and Key