2024 has been a year of profound growth and transformation. In many ways, it felt like climbing a mountain- pushing through challenges to reach the summit, only to realise that an even bigger, more meaningful peak lies ahead.
The year began with a major milestone: I closed the chapter on what I call my “first innings.” After years of hard work and dedication, I stepped away from the company I had built and sold. It wasn’t just about leaving a business behind- it was about letting go of a way of life that had consumed so much of my energy and focus. For months, I wrestled with feelings of unfinished business, wondering if I still had more to give. But ultimately, I knew it was time to hand over the reins and move forward. From there, I embarked on a journey to reset my life. I travelled through more than 10 countries, mostly by road, and Alhamdulillah, had the honour of performing Umrah, which gave me a sense of spiritual peace and direction.
As liberating as this transition was, it wasn’t without its challenges. The months after leaving my company felt unstructured, even aimless at times. Without the financial pressures and constant demands of running a business, I found it difficult to stay motivated or gain momentum in pursuing something new. The freedom I had worked so hard to achieve came with its own set of complications- suddenly, I was left asking myself, “What’s next?” It took months of reflection to realise the immense opportunity in front of me: the chance to take bigger risks, channel my energy into something more meaningful, and build with purpose.
But as I focused on these transitions, there were areas of my life I neglected. One of the most significant was my physical and mental health. The lack of structure and routine through the latter part of the year took its toll on me physically, and the sudden drop in mental stimulation left me feeling disconnected at times. The toll of this imbalance was something I came to recognise only later in the year, and it’s a reminder of how important it is to maintain both mental and physical well-being, no matter what phase of life you’re in.
When I reflect on the year as a whole, I see two distinct phases. The first half was about letting go- unwinding from the mindset of my old life, stepping away from the company, and coming to terms with the end of that chapter. The second half became a time of resetting- mentally, spiritually, and emotionally- as I explored what it meant to start my “second innings.” Towards the end of the year, I began experimenting with a few new projects, planting the seeds of what could become my next big endeavour.
Through it all, I feel deeply grateful. First and foremost, I thank Allah for every blessing He has given me- His guidance, patience, and the opportunities that have shaped my journey but most importantly for the ability he has given me, something I intend to make the most of. I’m also incredibly thankful for my family, who have been my unwavering support system. They stood by me during the tough early years of building a business, and they’ve continued to support me as I navigated the even more difficult process of stepping away from it.
As 2024 comes to an end, I look to the future with a renewed sense of purpose and focus. My priority for 2025 is clear: to regain my physical and mental strength. Establishing a consistent routine, prioritising health, and rebuilding my energy are at the top of my list. Alongside that, I hope to take the projects I started in late 2024 and scale the most promising ones into something meaningful- something that reflects the purpose and vision I want to bring into this new phase of life. On a personal level, I’m looking forward to moving into a new home early in the year and striving every day to become a better version of myself.
If there’s one thing 2024 has taught me, it’s that every ending is also a beginning. Standing at the summit of one mountain, I can now see the next one waiting for me. Here’s to climbing higher and stronger in 2025.