My 2024 in numbers

I see people taking end of year retrospectives. Some put it in numbers of impact. I thought to join in for fun. Not to boast. Though maybe a little bit, we are all proud of our achievements, aren’t we?

While I was on a bit of a career pause, still did a few milestones I am super proud of:

• Writing my first sci-fi series titled “Giant of the Stars”, following a GTSB investigator unravel the loss of the largest luxury cruiser ever built to sail among the stars - 45+ chapters already published and finishing in the next 15-20 chapters - the longest pet project I consistently worked on so far and confident at being able to finish it. While readership is low, I am so glad for that few who consistently follow it week by week. I plan to kick-off an entire fictional universe of mine with this book/series.
• 2 short science-fiction stories released in other’s publications on Medium - going through edit and feedback of others writing in the space was the best confidence boost to continue improving my writing craft.
• 6+ game design documents written, 2 of them close to finish (as a living document can ever be), and many based in same universe as Giant of the Stars, ideas shared and feedback acquired from 5+ close peers - so much thanks for handling my ramblings!
• 3 game prototypes built, drawing and animation skills developed from 0 to, well, let’s say to “something”, one prototype nearing closed testing, titled Jump City Rush - a hardcore difficulty jumping puzzle game in Unreal Engine aiming mobile, Mac and PC.
• Took on a European trip, visiting 10 cities in two weeks, by train, bus and plane - my advent market backpacking through Europe, one of my most exhilirating projects, I was so afraid if anything goes wrong, yet so much wanted to do this for a while - more about this coming soon in other articles remembering back on my highlights and practical tips for a trip of yours.
• Started consistently writing on LinkedIn (and Substack, titled “Friday For Thoughts”) about professional topics, aiming for evergreen short articles, representing my current understanding of personal values, outlooks on software engineering, digital products and teams - hope at least one of the 16+ and counting articles gave any new ideas, perspectives or just showed, you are not alone in your challenges!

And of course a lot more private and pet project milestones that won’t be shared publicly. Thanks for everyone playing a part in the best journey ever, called life!

As I am gearing up to return to my career, I hope I can bring new perspectives and new energy to the table. I am looking forward for 2025 and what it holds for my personal and professional growth.

Happy and a fresh new year for all!