Welcome to the Human Prototype blog, a space where the past and present converge to showcase the evolution of a life in progress. Inspired by my TEDx talk, "I am a Prototype," this blog is part of a broader journey of transformation through journaling, capturing the essence of living as a perpetual prototype. Each week, during 2024, I reviewed my archives from 2016, contrasting journal scans filled with drawings against the backdrop of my current experiences.
My Self-Care Routine is Due for an Upgrade
Then: March 14-20, 2016
As I go into the 4th week of my journal, I’m met with a mix of emotions. It's somewhat monotonous—covering the same topics every week—yet, intriguingly, it draws me in to see how certain activities unfold or reveal any underlying patterns.
CrossFit saw a good mix: deadlifts (10 reps at 115lbs), wall balls, handstands, and the CrossFit open. A diverse routine as to be expected with Crossfit.
At work, there were highs and lows: progress with the Pix to Pack community, planning a workshop with fellow CPS (Creative Problem Solving) practitioners, and diving into prototype creation in the lab. On the other end, project delays dampened the spirit somewhat.
The Human-Centered Design Course had us crafting “How Might We” statements, digging deeper into the process.
The TEDx project hit a wall. “Okay, Michael, we’ve got a problem, this new fee isn’t going to fly with us.” (I just did a quick search and found him on LinkedIn. Our call, it turns out, was within his first month at TED as a Global Partnerships Manager. Now, he’s ascended to Director of Impact Partnerships. Kudos, Michael!) but still, the 10,000 USD fee you wanted us to pay to host one event at the office was not going to work.
A dopamine rush awaited at Daiso, my go-to for affordable thrills. This Japanese store, nestled in the bustling underground of the Dubai Mall, is a treasure trove for anyone looking for special papers, stickers, and craft supplies at around 7 dirhams per item.
Then, there was the beautiful voice of Chelsea Hart echoing through Dubai Marina during a street festival. Years later, during the covid lockdown, spotting them on my TikTok feed sparked a moment of recognition: “I know them!” That memory from March 2016 suddenly felt so vivid. (I just looked at their website and read their entire evolution since 2015 and wow! I had no clue about the backstory. Opera singer, stand-up comedian and activist, on a path of resensitizing people (that’s the title of their podcast) who have lost their humanity. I guess I needed this inspiration today!)
Reflecting on that week overall, I was astonishingly busier back then. Juggling an intense gym session, mall escapades, facial appointments, cat grooming, and soaking up street art in a single day now seems almost unimaginable. Is that because I’m older or is there something else I’m not seeing yet? Ah, food for thought!
Now: March 11-17, 2024
Hear the journey: There's a unique intimacy in spoken words—a warmth and immediacy that text alone may not convey. In my weekly audio commentary, I share reflections both deep and light-hearted, offering a companion piece to the visual and written narrative.
Companion Links: Extend Your Journey
Learn about money & personal finance:
- Female Invest: community with live webinars, online courses and a supportive forum
- Rebel Finance School: free 10 week personal finance course from Alan and Katie Donegan who have hit financial independence at 35 and 40 years old. Good vibes.
- How to Get Rich: Netflix documentary with finance expert Ramit Sethi, who works with people across the US to help them achieve their richest lives.
Spread the Word
Found something that moved you or made you think? Share it with your circle!
Together, let's embrace the beauty of becoming, the intrigue of what was, and the promise of what is yet to come.
