Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action. – Peter Drucker

As the year winds down, I reflect on the milestones of 2024 and prepare for the exciting opportunities ahead. This will be my final post for the year as I focus on completing my book, Silent Courage, and preparing it for beta readers by mid-December.

I am also counting the days until we can go and fetch our new puppy. Kanta is a male Japanese Chin/Yorkie cross, and I hope his presence and companionship will help ease Sassy’s separation anxiety. Sassy is highly intelligent and curious, and I’m confident that having a playmate will provide the extra stimulation we, as her human parents, can’t fully offer.

When I look back at 2024, three things stand out.

• I’ve started writing my book, Silent Courage: An Introvert’s Journey with Hearing Loss.
• My days were filled with therapy for my Sassy girl’s separation anxiety.
• I’ve started building my author platform on Substack.

Writing my first book

I never expected 2024 to be the year I would write my first book. But here I am, already formatting and polishing Silent Courage for publication next year. Just as well we will also have a new puppy in the house. Otherwise, my thoughts will run rampant, wondering what feedback I will get from my beta readers.

Writing this book was a thrilling and nerve-wracking experience. Research and writing came easily, but editing felt daunting at first. However, my confidence grew as I progressed.

The formatting and polishing are incredibly time-consuming. The most challenging parts for me were crafting introductions, transitions, and conclusions.

But I could manage all these because words are my forte. Alas, the book cover was the most challenging.

Due to financial constraints, I can’t hire a book designer. Ultimately, I had six covers, and none felt right. Despite all my ideas, I didn’t have the skills and knowledge to execute them properly.

But finally, I have my cover, thanks to the help of my artistic sister.

While writing Silent Courage was a fulfilling journey, my days were also shaped by the emotional demands of Sassy’s therapy.

Doggy Therapy

As a sensitive introvert, Sassy’s therapy sessions and exercises for her separation anxiety took a huge toll on my emotional resources. The therapy starts slowly with basic obedience training and building trust. With time, it becomes more intense, and like compound interest – the longer it continues, the harder it becomes to cope with those intense emotions.

However, it had definite benefits, too. It formed a special bond between me and Sassy that I will never have with another dog. It is intensely satisfying to see her progress and willingness to keep trying regardless of how challenging the exercise may be.

I have learnt valuable lessons through this therapy. As I wrote in my article, Navigating the Emotional Toll of Pet Therapy: Tips for Sensitive Souls Like Us, I’ve learnt to show myself kindness and grace and not give in to my inner critic. Another insight is that I could distance myself from my feelings and view them more objectively as something that comes and goes. I’ve realized that what I feel doesn’t define who I am.

I’m uncertain how long this therapy will continue, but I’m eagerly looking forward to bringing Kanta home. I hope his companionship will ease Sassy’s anxiety and strengthen her confidence. The thought of two happy dogs and their playful antics fills me with joy.

Joining Substack

I’ve enjoyed exploring Substack and connecting with readers with similar experiences in recent months.”

In 2025, I plan to write a mini-book series on introverts with hearing loss while continuing to explore related topics in my Substack articles.

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To those preparing for the holidays, I wish you rest and cherished moments with loved ones. For those working through the season, especially in essential services, thank you for your dedication and sacrifice. May you all have a joyful and blessed Christmas season, and may 2025 bring you success and fulfilled dreams.

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