I turned 24!

Whew, it’s been an insane past couple of months! But here I am, now 24 years old. I was fortunate enough to spend my birthday in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Paris!

Being able to travel again was eyeopening for me. It’s been 2.5 years since I’ve been abroad, and I forgot how much I enjoy exploring new cities, taking in the most beautiful views, and living a different way of life for a bit. There will be plenty of travel posts to come, but for now I’m just one year away from my quarter life crisis!

With that in mind, I’ve got a list of things I’m manifesting this upcoming year before I’m due for my crisis is due. In case you’re curious to know what’s on that list, read on:

Moving to a new city

This sounds like a huge deal, but it’s nothing too crazy. Since I’ve been in the Bay for literally ever, thanks COVID for stopping me from leaving (full sarcasm intended). While I want to do a big move, the inconvenience and my fear of commitment has me proceeding with caution. I’ve decided that moving to New York short term sounds like the best compromise. I’ve been thinking about it for years, and I think it’s coming to the point where it’s now or never — New York City, you’ll be home to me for at least a couple of months!

Traveling more, duh

Spain is definitely on the list for next year, potentially not until after I turn 25, but I do want to visit at least one other new country before then! Portugal is a top contender right now since I’ve been eyeing cheap flights to Lisbon, but if anyone has any must-see places to visit please sent your recs my way!

More seriously focusing on my career

Since I graduated college, I always told myself that I’d give it a couple years in my first job before worrying about or thinking deeply about my career trajectory. Those couple of years have gone by, so now it’s time to try to nail this shit down. I have an idea of what I want to do long term, but without experiencing that role first hand I can’t say for sure.

This year I’m really gonna hone in on certain skills to help drive me towards my long term career goals. Things may change as time goes on, but for now I’m taking the first step in the direction I think is right for me.

Using media more to express myself

As I look back at all the moments I’ve experienced, I realize how much I treasure being able to look back at those times. Taking photos, videos, blogging, vlogging, etc. have been such great ways for me to relax, reminisce, and excite myself for what’s to come. With that, I’m being hoping to be more intentional with posting on my blog and social media pages in general. This isn’t something I thought I’d ever take more seriously, but we’re gonna do it because I really do see value in it for myself.

Does anything here resonate with you? What goals do you have for the year ahead? Feel free to share them in the comments below :)

Katrina Festejo