Dear Anne,
One year older, yet somehow feeling younger—call it what you want. But let’s take a moment to acknowledge something: the more you age, the wiser you become. And that’s something to celebrate.
Look at you, constantly working on yourself. When work felt overwhelming, you didn’t just let it consume you—you went to therapy. You sought help from professionals because you knew that strength isn’t about carrying everything alone, but about knowing when to ask for support. You’ve learned that mental clarity isn’t something that just happens; it’s something you actively cultivate.And let’s talk about relationships—oh, how far you’ve come. You once had a theory that men function better with direct orders rather than fairytale illusions of gallantry. So, you tested it. Instead of waiting for grand romantic gestures, you asked for what you wanted. You told them straight—do you want to be the kind of man who sends flowers, or should I just cut you loose? Because, let’s be honest, people who care make the effort—and those who don’t? They’ll come up with excuses. David proved that. He sent flowers, twice—for Valentine’s (as a test) and again on your birthday. Proof that no one is ever “too busy”; it’s just a matter of priorities.
You’ve also learned to be direct and unapologetic, not just in love but in life:
- Protect yourself from unnecessary heartbreak by managing expectations.
- Know your worth and never settle for less.
- Show up for the people who matter, and never take friendships for granted.
You’ve never valued people for their status, their power, or their wealth. You’ve valued them for their values—the ones that align with your own. And that, Anne, is why your circle is solid.
Manifestation & Hard Work: Proof That You Made It Happen
Looking back, every whispered wish you sent to the universe came true. 2014, your first time in Bali, walking through Sanur, thinking, I want to live here someday. One year later? 2015, you made it happen. No connections, no backup plan—just 3 million rupiah in your pocket and a dream. You started from scratch, from being a shopkeeper at a luxury jewelry brand, selling to VIPs whose names you once wrote on guarantee cards, to now being the kind of woman who shares tables with them. If that’s not proof of growth, what is?
If that girl from Indramayu, a nursing graduate who completely shifted careers, could carve her own path—then, Anne, you can do absolutely anything. The secret? Never stop learning. Because when you know better, you do better.
Lessons You’re Still Learning (And That’s Okay!)
- Finding peace in chaos. It’s an ongoing process, but you’re doing the work.
- Being brave enough to ask guys out. And even braver to cut loose the ones who string you along.
- Realizing that everyone is just doing their best. So instead of having silent expectations, just say what you want.
Work is Just One Part of Life—Not the Whole Universe
Work is important, but it’s not your entire identity. Imagine your life as a home—work should be like your garden or farm—a place that you nurture, that feeds you, but not the place that defines your entire existence. Take care of it, but don’t let it own you.
Looking Forward
You’ve come so far, Anne. And the best part? You wouldn’t change a thing.
There’s a time for everything, and everything has unfolded exactly as it should. The next chapter? It’s terrifying. But isn’t that what makes it exciting?
Happy Birthday, Anne. Keep the good work!
With love,
Anne
