As the year draws to a close, it's that time when we naturally turn our gaze backward, reminiscing over achievements, memorable events, and remarkable journeys that shaped our past year. Admittedly, like everyone else, I do it too - big time in fact. However, contrary to societal notions and as I said in my last year’s post, it’s not the moment to set my NY resolutions. I find it more productively to set goals gradually throughout the year - such as defining objectives for the summer, sometimes setting monthly targets, and more effectively adopting a six-week goal-setting strategy for work (a method I adopted from DHH and Jason Fried's book It Doesn’t Have To Be Crazy At Work). While I do take time to acknowledge successes, I also place a great emphasis on reviewing what didn’t work, aiming to learn from those experiences and improve them for the future. But enough with the wordy kerfuffle; here are some standout events and things I learnt in 2023, wrapped 🦀
Travelling 🌎
Oh, traveling! How much I love it! Yes, it’s my geographer thing in me. It’s my gateway to the world. Not to tick off a destination but to embrace the unknown every time. This year has been a phenomenal year with lots of adventures abroad but also in the UK. However, these three experiences stand out for me.
Exploring the sea in all sorts of weather and places (i.e. Wales 🏴, Portugal 🇵🇹, Cyprus 🇨🇾)
Hiking. The year I hiked more than ever! I can’t express how much I love it and can’t wait to enjoy even more trails in nature in 2024! 🥾 What stands out are the breathtaking views of the Welsh coast and the piney paths around Mt. Olympus in Cyprus.
Travelling in the US and enjoying the woods in North Carolina. The autumnal views while cycling can’t be beaten! 🍂
Bonus map - an overview of my 2023 flights ✈️
Career & Personal development 🛰️👨🏼💻
If asked how work’s been, here’s what I’d say. The past year has marked the most transformative period in my career. I got the promotion to a Senior Consultant, I started managing my own team and more importantly I started doing more of what I like - that is having the autonomy to work on my Earth Observation (EO) R&D. The pinnacle was when I presented at the Spatial Data Science Conference in New York in October our wildfire detection tool and helped win the first EO project for Ricardo. These accomplishments represent significant successes for me. They serve as a reminder that personal growth often springs from seizing opportunities. It's the steps we take for ourselves that propel us to higher levels in life, bringing a deeper sense of fulfillment. As Brad Snyder, the US Navy Veteran, shared on Fitness+’s Time To Walk episode:
“The moment that you most want to give up is the most important moment to stick with it…” and “Don't give up on that thing that is you!”
Miscellaneous 💭
I finally did it - I finished writing my first cook book back in March after working on it for about a year. It still needs some minor edits but I can say that it’s 97% done 👨🏼🍳
Embracing patience for what truly matters! Experiencing what’s meant to be without the need to force it is incredibly satisfying!
Missing my annual running mileage target is alright. Sometimes things go unplanned (thanks, frisbee injury!) and it’s okay - as long as you do your best while taking care of your body! 🏃🏽♂️
I’m rediscovering my passion for photography one iPhone shot at a time. Shooting RAW on the iPhone 15 Pro has been a game changer! 📱
Reading Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia has been an eye-opening experience on Medicine 3.0. It explores the science behind extending lifespan through personalised strategies, blending scientific insights with practical advice for a healthier and longer life 😌
In 2024, I wish you lots of fun, thrilling adventures, travels to places you have never been to before, inspiring conversations and that you learn something new every day!! May 2024 unfold as an exceptionally enriching and unforgettable year for you!
PS. Being 30 is just as amazing as ever! I can’t wait to embark on even more cool adventures in the coming year! 🧗🏼♂️
About Christopher Evangelides
Senior GIS & EO Consultant at Ricardo 🌍👨🏼💻 Keele and UCL alumnus 🏛 I'm a techie and I love playing tennis, running and spending time in the kitchen and the great outdoors 🎾👨🏼🍳🏃🏽♂️🥾 ohh and oftentimes, I share my thoughts here on HEY!
