Here’s a more casual, streamlined version of the article:
Looking Back at 2023: Wins, Losses, and Everything in Between
Another year has come and gone, and it’s time to reflect on the highs and lows of 2023. Every January, I jot down my goals for the year (you can check out my 2023 goals here). Then, as the year wraps up, I take a hard look at where I succeeded and where I fell short. It’s a bit scary, but it’s also a great way to hold myself accountable.
One of the highlights of my year was climbing Mount Everest. You can read all about my journey here. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. I had more failed resolutions this year than ever before, which was a tough pill to swallow. But hey, there were some wins too, like building a house for my mom and, of course, conquering Everest.
Let’s dive into my 2023, month by month, and see how I did with my goals:
My 2023 Goals: Hits and Misses
- Get Pregnant: Unfortunately, this didn’t happen in 2023. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for 2024.
- Summit Mount Everest: Nailed it!
- Raise $20,000 for Parkinson’s and cycle 100km across Jordan with my Mum: Done and done!
- Increase my net worth by $100k: Didn’t quite make it, but it’s a bit complicated.
- Expand my real estate portfolio: Check!
- Exercise at least 184 days: Achieved!
- Complete the 7 Summits: Almost there, but not quite.
- Reach the South Pole & Complete the Explorer’s Grand Slam: Same as above.
- OneStep4Ward trip to Timbuktu (plus others): Had to postpone due to unforeseen circumstances.
So, out of nine goals, I had four wins and five setbacks. But that’s life, right? Now, let’s take a closer look at how I spent my year:
2023: A Month-by-Month Review
In January, I kicked off the year with travels and finances. February saw me back in Thailand, training hard for my Everest expedition. March was more of the same, with a visit from my sister and her family. April was all about Everest, and in May, I reached the summit. June was a time for celebration and travel with my wife. July was a whirlwind of trips and property hunting in Thailand. August was a much-needed month off, and in September, I cycled 100km through the Jordanian desert for charity. October was filled with trips and celebrations, and in November, I watched as construction began on my mum’s house. Finally, in December, I celebrated my 40th birthday and wedding anniversary, and now I’m waiting for my flight to Antarctica.
2023: Health, Finances, Work, Travels, Life
Health & Fitness: 8/10. I was in great shape for most of the year, but my mental health took a hit due to stress and anxiety.
Travels: 10/10. I visited 19 countries and took more than 50 flights. It was an amazing year of travel.
Business: 8.5/10. I made around $320,000 from various sources, but I fell short of my goal to increase my net worth by $100k.
Life: 6/10. The one thing I wanted most didn’t happen, which brought my score down.
Final Thoughts on 2023
2023 was a full and fun year. There were some big wins and some disappointments, but overall, I’m proud of what I accomplished. Now, it’s time to start planning for 2024 and get back to the grind. Life is a gift, and it’s up to us to make the most of it. So, let’s get to work and make our dreams a reality!
If you’re interested, you can check out my plans for 2024 here. And if you want to see how I’ve done in previous years, you can find all my past plans and reviews here.
