As I look back on 2024, I’m filled with a mix of emotions—grief, gratitude, and a deep sense of growth. This year has been one of the most challenging chapters of my life, but it has also been profoundly transformative. From losing my three-year qipao dress business on Etsy to enduring a life-changing diving accident in Bali, and finally finding a new sense of purpose as an advanced math AI trainer, I’ve learned lessons I never expected. I’d like to share my journey with you.
Losing My Qipao Dress Business on Etsy
For three years, my qipao dress business on Etsy was a true labor of love. It was more than just a shop for me; it was a way to share my culture and creativity with others. I poured my heart into building that business, and seeing it thrive brought me immense joy. However, this year, due to a combination of platform restrictions, my shop was suddenly closed without explanation. The loss hit hard, and I struggled with feelings of failure and disappointment.
In the midst of that heartache, I realized that while I couldn’t control the circumstances, I could control how I responded. I took a step back, reflected on what I wanted, and began to pick up the pieces. It wasn’t easy, but it was a necessary part of my journey.
A Diving Accident in Bali: Physical and Mental Challenges
Just as I was beginning to find my footing again, life threw another curveball my way. During a trip to Bali, I had a diving accident that resulted in significant physical injuries. The recovery process was long and challenging, but the emotional impact was just as profound. The stress and trauma from the accident triggered vitiligo, causing patches of my skin to lose pigmentation.
At first, I felt overwhelmed and defeated. Seeing my body change in ways I couldn’t control was difficult to accept. I battled anxiety and self-doubt, often feeling isolated. However, as time passed, I began to practice self-compassion. I learned to be patient with myself, to celebrate small victories, and to focus on what I could do rather than what I couldn’t. This shift in perspective became a turning point in my healing journey.
Finding Purpose as an Advanced Math AI Trainer
Amidst the chaos, a good friend reached out and offered me a lifeline. They introduced me to an opportunity to work as an advanced math AI trainer—a role I never would have imagined for myself. After not studying math for over a decade, the idea of diving back into such a challenging field was both intimidating and exciting.
To my surprise, I found myself thriving in this new role. Teaching AI to solve complex mathematical problems required focus and creativity, reigniting a part of me I thought I had lost. It turned out to be therapeutic in ways I hadn’t expected. For the first time in a long time, I felt purpose and fulfillment. This experience reminded me that it’s never too late to learn something new and find meaning in unexpected places.
Rebuilding My Business with Shopify
While working as an AI trainer, I also started exploring ways to rebuild my business. This time, I decided to move away from Etsy and start fresh with Shopify. Learning to navigate a new platform was daunting, but it allowed me to create a business on my own terms. Gradually, I began to see progress. Orders started coming in, and with each one, I felt a renewed sense of hope.
This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and perseverance. Losing my Etsy shop felt like the end of the road, but it was really just a detour. By embracing change and staying committed to my vision, I was able to rebuild and create something even stronger.
Lessons from 2024: Gratitude, Resilience, and Rediscovery
Reflecting on this year, I’m struck by the profound lessons it has taught me:
- Loss is not the end.** Losing my business and facing physical challenges felt insurmountable at the time, but they were also opportunities for growth and reinvention. Every ending can lead to a new beginning.
- Resilience is built through adversity.** This year tested me in ways I never expected, but it also showed me how strong I can be. Resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges; it’s about facing them and finding a way to move forward.
- Gratitude is a powerful force.** Through all the ups and downs, I’ve been surrounded by incredible people who supported and encouraged me when I needed it most. Their kindness has been a source of strength.
- It’s never too late to learn and grow.** Whether diving back into math or learning to work with Shopify, this year reminded me that we are always capable of growth and reinvention.
Thank You to Those Who Made a Difference
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to those who have been there for me this year. To my dear friend who introduced me to the AI trainer role—you’ve changed my life in ways I can’t fully express. To my family and friends who supported me through my recovery, your love and encouragement kept me going. And to everyone who believed in my business and gave me a second chance, thank you for helping me rebuild my dream.
As I step into 2025, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and hope. This year has been a rollercoaster, but it has also been a reminder of the incredible strength and resilience we all carry within us. No matter what challenges lie ahead, I know I have the tools to face them—and that every ending is just the beginning of something new.
Here’s to a brighter, stronger, and more fulfilling year ahead. Thank you for being part of my journey. Happy New Year！ 