Reflecting on 2025

I wrote a reflection post at the end of 2024, but didn't make a goals post in early 2025. I want to write a reflection, but I don't know that I had a set list of goals to review like I did last year. I won't have this problem next year; I've already created a bingo card of goals. And don't tell anyone, but I've already started on a few of them.

So, a reflection on the big things I accomplished:

1. Started a Master's Degree

I began classes this year in pursuit of a Master's in Computer Science. It's been really fun, so far; I've enjoyed getting to formally learn in more depth some of the concepts I've had a surface-level understanding of from professional code. Particularly, learning about language concepts has opened me up to new ways of writing code using pattern matching, function composition, and types.

I also did Advent of Code, which was surprisingly fun. But I've always liked solving puzzles.

2. More musical endeavors

I joined a new band in February/March, and the singer who fronts that band has become a close friend of mine. I've also been much more excited to play drums, and do the work to improve. I did a month of just straight muscle building exercises, spent some time learning old drum and fife marching tunes, participated in the town free jazz piece, and just generally have rediscovered a way to enjoy it. One of my new year's goals is to get a practice space, which my friend is helping out with in a big way.

3. New hobbies

I've been taking aerial silks classes. I'm not strong enough yet, but I now have something to build towards. It's good to have motivation to exercise, I feel that's been lacking for a long time.

4. Mindful computer use

This is something I've been wanting to work on for a long time. I finally accomplished some real things I can point to regarding that, including spending 2 months without youtube.

I'm currently on a two-week streak. On top of that, I'm not spending quite so much time locked in consumption. Reading a couple posts about resilience, doing things scared or alone, etc. have helped motivate me to get out more. Plus, just having friends around who invite me to stuff.

In all, it's been a really good year for me. Next year's goals center a lot on gaining confidence in myself - pushing myself to actually spend money and time on my hobbies, actually put effort into learning transition-related skills, actually put myself out there romantically. It's going to be big. I'm excited to begin.