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.
Going with the Good Flow
Then: Apr 4-Apr 10, 2016 & Now: Apr 1-7, 2024
Week 15 of 2016 was a whirlwind of day-long meetings and workshops, including a three-day team-building retreat featuring fun activities, dinners, and crucial conversations about our collaboration methods. At the time, I wasn't the biggest fan of such gatherings, yet now, I find myself longing for more. The onset of COVID-19 in 2020 and the reality of working within a globally distributed team have limited such interactions. We managed only a single meet-up at the end of 2023, and regrettably, it was all business, and very little fun.
I also recall being particularly pleased with the lobster illustration and my experiments with background colors and washi tape. By Thursday, my inspiration had dwindled, marked by a note: “Last day of the week”—a reminder of the UAE's then Friday/Saturday weekend. It’s akin to adapting to the UK’s left-side driving—unusual at first but quickly becoming second nature. (Along with saying “sorry” when someone bumps into you).
Fast forward to 2024, this week has been emotionally charged. Tears fell without a clear reason, and the workplace was a high-tension environment. This led me to contemplate my emotional resilience and the ways I safeguard my energy—not an easy feat, but I’m confident it’s within reach. For example, thinking this would alleviate my pain, I tried stuffing my face with carbs, fat and sugar. Not recommended. Avoid.
On a brighter note, reconnecting with dear friends this week was a triumph for my social life! I can’t stress enough how victorious I felt. If you know how to make friends as an adult please let me know.
I've also started reading a new book in French, “Comment devenir un être spirituel authentique” by Serge Boutboul, 650 pages of spirituality. It's been enlightening so far, especially as I strive to hone my intuition. I am experimenting with energy-led decision-making, which is being more challenging than I thought amidst the cacophony of societal expectations, cultural norms, and my own personal beliefs. That’s where my prototyping journey is at the moment: going with the good flow.
As a way to nurture my capacity to be in awe and disconnect from the noise, I took a moment this morning to admire the blossoming trees lining my neighborhood streets. So much beauty, it’s mind blowing, literally mind blowing. I have to stop myself from thinking about how perfect and beautiful nature is otherwise I’ll get stuck in a bout of complete madness.
Next week brings the prospect of in-person interactions at work—a norm from eight years ago that feels almost foreign now. I’m curious to see if I’ll try to turn my camera off or mute myself in real life.
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 more about the astrology of the upcoming solar eclipse and super new moon
- [In French] Discover Serge Boutboul’s work through this interview and his Youtube channel
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.
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