Soon I’ll be 38 years old. I often question whether I have used my time wisely so far to reach a daily happy existence and positively impact the world. At this time of year I dwell on the past 12 months and I regret all the times I was lazy. I wish I had not been scared to try new things. I wish I had not burned so much time and energy obsessing over trivial things.
But before I get down on myself too much and before I set my goals for next year I feel it is important for me to list a few of the things I feel grateful for in 2017. The year has had some highlights and I believe to live a mentally healthy life it’s important to take time for gratitude and perspective. I guess sharing this is more for my own personal benefit rather than for you readers, but perhaps you will find a few things interesting and it will inspire some of your own reflections on 2017.
Gratitude list for 2017
I got engaged to my girlfriend Stephanie.
I ate Stephanie’s Nestle Toll House chocolate chip cookies.
I ate my mom’s cake.
I worked on my diet (a recent endevour).
I developed a morning ritual.
I developed my idea muscle.
I started getting more sleep.
I learned the concept of 54321.
I worked on investments and even bought a few tulips…er Bitcoin.
I traveled to interesting places for business and pleasure.
I visited San Sebastián, Spain, with Stephanie.
I met many new people—some better than others.
I began some new relationships—both personal and professional.
I worked on my negotiation skills.
I gave to charity (but not enough).
I volunteered (but not enough).
I helped Graff-Pinkert go from two so so years to an excellent one.
I danced.
I took lovely rigorous jogs.
I got to be artistic (but not often enough).
I cared about people.
I learned about INDEXs, and Nakamuras and Schüttes.
I made some money.
I treasure hunted.
I listened to fascinating books and podcasts on my commutes to work that hopefully changed my life.
I watched fun movies and TV shows like Vikings and The Last Jedi.
I planned a little for the future (but not enough).
I watched the Cubs beat the Nationals in one of the craziest baseball games ever.
I spent time with my family and got to work alongside my dad.
I gained some perspective.
I felt gratitude and appreciated life when I remembered to.
Question: What are you grateful for in 2017?

Nestle Toll House Cookies