Ryu's Blog

People tend to do New Year resolutions but few reflect upon them until the next New Year. But tracking progress is as important as setting the right goals as it not only reminds me of my goals but also allow me to adjust my plans if necessary (here and here are my resolution entries for this year).

Lately I haven’t been following my plan/schedule closely (hence less blogging, drawing, and serious reading) and probably have spent too much time on hedonic pleasures such as dining out, movies, and passive reading than on learning and creating things. Below are some thoughts on various aspects of my life. Overall I think I’ve passed the minimum standard in living the way I want but I definitely could do better.

Career: B-

Became much more familiar and efficient with my work. Now have to further develop my economic and financial knowledge and find ways to add more values.

Health: A-

Exercise and eat well enough to keep myself healthy (except having too many desserts on weekend). Probably not as fit as I’d like ideally, but that’s not my goal for now as I think the time and energy are better spent elsewhere.

Friend: C-

Haven’t catch up with friends that often and probably should communicate with them more regularly, especially those not living in Singapore. But it’s comforting to know that with certain friends, I can connect with them easily and feel close to them even without frequent contact (or perhaps just an excuse).

Love: D-

Only reason it’s not an F is because I didn’t explicitly set it as a goal. But as far as I can see, there’s little probability in meeting someone I’d like. My work environment, personality, and idealistic views greatly limit my chance of meeting new people and finding someone I like. Don’t think I’d do much about it for now except to continue better myself and keep an open mind.

Learning: B-

Read enough to feel that I’m learning something everyday. But the readings are quite random and spontaneous. Would probably be more effective if I specified my learning goals and follow them systematically.

Hobbies: B-

Similar to the learning goal, I’ve been dabbling in various hobbies but haven’t focused enough to do something particularly well. I plan to set some specific projects to do for each month to ensure I’m creating something regularly.

Finance: B

On track to repay my Grad school loans soon, even taking into account my travel plans and regular fine dining. Though still feel a bit guilty about my indulgence given I’m in debt. I guess my Chinese background makes me place more value on prudence than on consumption smoothing.