India two weeks ago felt like a dream. Six days in New Delhi + Hyderabad were way too short I think. But still, I had a great time exploring a country I'd never been to. Food was amazing (briyani, naan, paneer) and I really hope people stop talking about diarrhoea when they think about India. There's way more to that!

While it was a short trip, I'm reminded of just how much I enjoy reporting overseas. I looked so happy in my PTCs and I felt alive doing interviews. It reminded me of how much I enjoy reporting. Somehow, after four years doing Singapore stories, I've become somewhat tired of the same old press releases + announcements. The political scene here is starting to get exciting, but other than that - I've lost a bit of zest covering sg stories. 

Maybe I'm also at a turning point in my career where it's time to head in another direction, to take on a different role. My boss has offered a couple of positions to me, one more exciting than the other. I really hope I'll get it, depending on circumstances. I used to feel a little conflicted about which to choose, but I gave it some thought and my heart has sung louder for a specific role more than the other. When the time is right, I'll let you guys know :)

Other areas of my life have been about the same, but also heading in a new direction - I'm gearing up for something exciting year-end! A gathering of sorts and travel again for leisure.

Speaking of leisure travel - 

I visited Bali for the first time in May, and it was surprisingly beautiful. I used to stay away from the thought of visiting the place because I detested all the commercialisation and angmohs hogging the beaches. It was indeed commercialised when I was there, and angmohs filled the place. But I also saw how locals and foreigners perfectly coexisted. Traditions remained even as the rate of tourism soared. It wasn't the same in other SEA countries I had been to. Bali achieved this perfect balance. Is Hinduism the reason for this? Maybe.

My heart was also at peace during the five days I was there. No social media, just the wonderful tranquility and breeze that put my mind at ease. I had a bit of anxiety the first day I returned to Singapore when I opened my social media accounts and read my emails. Just shows how important these pockets of time away from city life is so important. Yeah, in a way it's a form of escapism, but also quite crucial for mental health.

I hope you've been doing great. As with each year, time seems to fly by, and before I know it, I turn 30 this October! Even though everyone says 30 is old, I can't help but feel like my life has only just begun. The 20s feels like a time when I'm just finding my footing in this world. At this point, my feet is on more solid ground, and I trust my senses a bit more. People take you slightly more serious than when you were younger. Insecurities are still there of course, but I get better at coping with them I feel. And I'd like to think it only gets better - though the 30s also presents new challenges. 

Whatever it is, I hope to remind myself to breathe, stay mindful and enjoy the process~