My Tiny Experiment

In January, I made a commitment to myself: to improve my social wellbeing.

I've spent the last few weeks meeting new connections online and getting in touch with long-lost faces. I was mindful of my limited social battery when meeting in person. I blocked out recovery time after each social interaction.

I was also trying to define what a genuine connection feels like, after experiencing many unhealthy relationships. Through some interactions, I was reminded of the importance of communicating and reinforcing firm boundaries. I wasn't about to let myself be bullied into situations against my values.

Nonetheless, a common theme keeps coming up in the numerous conversations I had in the month: We are all searching for answers. There is a universal relief in hearing from others who have walked the path before us.

Whether that's someone who has a more recent encounter with breast cancer and asking about my experience. Or that's someone asking about how I found ways to work after finally learning I'm autistic at a late age in life. Or a young adult asking about their career plans ahead.

➡️ My Pact

At the start of this year, I read Tiny Experiments by Anne-Laure Le Cunff. Interestingly, her framework is something I’ve been practicing for some time now. Reading her work felt like getting a 'stamp of approval' from a neuroscientist on my own personal habits.

After the book, I 'formalized' my pact by posting once or twice a week on LinkedIn throughout January.

➡️ Why am I doing this?

Life happens.
Work gets busy.
Home life gets loud.

But I’ve found that having a routine to compile and share insights helps me maintain a purposeful pace.

In fact, this tiny experiment has kept me grounded, especially during a recent challenge with my husband’s health. Chris collapsed at work, and we thought we lost each other forever. We were supposed to celebrate our 3rd marriage anniversary the day before. He's been discharged from the hospital now and recuperating at home.

For me, writing has become a deliberate practice of:

Maintaining my personal capacity

I'm learning to refill my tank before it hits empty. Instead of just jumping from task to task, I'm taking 5-10 mins for a cup of tea, a quick stretch, a power nap, or even jot things down.

Gaining clarity

I'm turning a hyperactive mind into written words. Seeing my thoughts on paper helps me set better boundaries and actually focus on what matters.

Making meaningful connections

I'm sharing what I learn so we can all find those answers together. Whether it's sharing a leadership lesson or a "cup noodles lunch" reminder, I want to encourage us all to take better care of ourselves.

➡️ What's next?

Looking back, January was just the testing ground. I’ve realized that I’m not just "finishing a month-long pact". The routine I've built has become a ritual that helped me find meaning and stay purposeful in my day-to-day life.

I’m actually discovering a better way to work and live. Because I’m already seeing the benefits in my own clarity and energy, I’ve decided to keep this experiment running.

I’m looking forward to seeing what else I’ll learn about myself and the world by simply staying consistent.