Leveling Up for 2025
Lessons Learned, Goals Set
Progress isn’t always fast, and sometimes it feels like it’s barely happening at all.
After Achilles tendon surgery in August 2023, I spent most of 2024 rebuilding the confidence I once had in my body.
At first, it felt frustrating – walking for long period felt uncomfortable, running seemed out of reach and jumping wasn’t even a consideration. The physical recovery was one thing, but mentally, trusting my body again felt like a longer road. Every step forward came with the fear of reinjury and it wasn’t until late 2024 that I finally felt like I could move without hesitation.
As I pushed through the slow, repetitive process of physical therapy, strength training and relearning basic movements, I started to feel that confidence creeping back. A huge part of that came from the time I spent training with my martial arts coaches in Thailand and Colombia. Their patience, guidance and ability to push me just enough helped me reconnect with my body in a way nothing else could.
I want to take a moment to thank my coaches – the ones who challenged me and reminded me that strength is power and perseverance. Whether it was hitting pads in the heat of Bangkok or sharpening my skills in Medellín, that training became a huge part of my recovery.
Now, heading into 2025 there’s a certain clarity and resilience that comes from rebuilding yourself piece by piece. 2025 feels like a continuation of that.
The Takeaway from 2024
If last year taught me anything, it’s that growth often happens in the routines. The time spent recovering, reflecting and rethinking routines wasn’t lost time – it was necessary. Global Link grew from an idea into something tangible and my perspective on travel and success evolved.
2024 was a reminder that sometimes the best thing you can do is slow down and trust the process.
2024 Wrapped – Highlights and Achievements
Here’s a look at the key moments and wins that shaped the year:
Major Wins of the Year
Destinations & Long-Term Stays:
Bangkok (July) – One month of training, recovery and making more connections in the city.
Medellín (October to December) – Return to the Americas and getting back into routines.
Malaysia (August) – Birthday dive trip to Tioman Island, exploring Kuala Lumpur.
Xinjiang, China (June) – Exploring Urumqi, Turpan and Heavenly Lake.
Global Link Milestones:
Community Growth – Expanded community reach in Malaysia 🇲🇾 and China 🇨🇳 .
Content Expansion – Launched new long-form posts and guides for expats and digital nomads.
Personal Achievements:
Achilles Recovery – Fully regained confidence in movement, running and martial arts by the end of the year.
Martial Arts Training – Continued working with coaches in Muay Thai and boxing in Thailand 🇹🇭 and Colombia 🇨🇴 .
New Hobbies – Reached new scuba diving certification levels in Malaysia.
Standout Moments of 2024
🥘 Favorite Meal of the Year
Nasi Lemak in Kuala Lumpur – Spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, and coconut rice. Simple but unbeatable. KL street food never misses.
🍢 Most Unexpected Culinary Experience
Lamb skewers in Xinjiang – Smoky, spicy, and grilled to perfection. Xinjiang food as a whole? Unreal. The flavors hit different out there.
☕ Favorite Coffee Moments
Bangkok café hopping – Strong brews, hidden gems, and watching the world go by. Bangkok’s café game is top-tier.
🍡 Best Street Food
Mango sticky rice in Bangkok – Sweet, creamy, and straight from a bustling night market. One bite and you get why it’s iconic.
🐢 Top Adventure of the Year
Scuba diving in Tioman Island – Turtles, reef sharks, and crystal-clear water. Birthday dives hit different.
🌄 Most Memorable Sunset
Calton Hill, Edinburgh – Golden light washing over the city. One of those sunsets that sticks with you.
🚗 Favorite Local Experience
Colombian Uber drivers – Every ride felt like a masterclass in life, culture, and humor. Unmatched energy.
🏍️ Best “Why Not?” Moment
Motorcycle ride from KL to Tioman Island – 9 hours in the rain, questionable roads, and pure adventure. Wouldn’t change a thing.
🎶 Favorite Party Spot
Medellín – The city that doesn’t stop. If you know, you know.
🏔️ Most Breathtaking View
The grasslands of Yining, Xinjiang – Endless green and distant mountains. Felt like standing at the edge of the world.
Top Performing Vlogs from 2024
Here are a few of the top performing posts across all socials
One Month Recap in Malaysia: Finding My Second Home in Asia 🌏 (vlog 049)
China vlog (039): Exploring Xinjiang (Urumqi, Uyghur food and more!)
Thailand vlog (043): More of Bangkok, Japanese food & Urban Life
Sparring Breakdown – One Round in the Ring 🥊 | Boxing Progress & Commentary
2025 Is About Moving Forward
This year isn’t about staying still.
It’s about picking up the pace.
Taking creative risks.
Pushing Global Link to the next level.
Saying yes to opportunities I had to pause last year.
I’m stepping into 2025 with excitement and intention – ready to build on the lessons of 2024 and create new opportunities along the way.
This past year was a journey of growth and recalibration, but 2025 feels like the year for all of us to level up – together. I’m excited to build more interactive spaces, share deeper insights, and create content that reflects the experiences and questions you care about most.
Thank You – Here’s to 2025
Your support fuels this journey. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just joined this year, thank you for being part of this community. Every read, comment, and shared experience helps drive Global Link forward, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, adventure, and meaningful connections. Here’s to stepping outside our comfort zones, chasing what sets our souls on fire, and building lives that reflect the world we want to live in.
2025 – the best is yet to come.