I HAVE never imagined writing a monthly column for a newspaper. What aspect of my life could possibly be interesting enough to write about?
But here I am, sitting at the balcony of my apartment overlooking the Kuala Lumpur skyline while sipping a cup of coffee, trying to pen my thoughts for the first article.
REFLECTIONS ON 2016
It has been eight years with many ups and downs since my sisters, Mira, Syera and I started Mimpikita. From an online blogshop and sales at weekend bazaars to our shop on Jalan Telawi, Bangsar and a mini outpost in Isetan, KLCC — everything has been too surreal.
But 2016 marked another milestone for me. As I look back on the year through my Instagram photos, I can’t help but wonder if it was THE year for me.
The phrase “you gain some, you lose some” describes my year, as it proved to be both humbling and challenging. It was exciting as the team and I collaborated with two renowned international brands. Nonetheless, it was also upsetting to let go of Calories, our little cafe business which was Mira’s first foray into the food and beverage industry.
The phrase works just the same for my relationship with people. In the midst of my hectic life and achieving my goals, I lost sight of the true meaning of the word with those whom I hold dearly at heart. Several friendships were forgotten. Some were put on hold in the pursuit of my dreams.
Between the accomplishments of Mimpikita and the closing of Calories, I have learnt that acceptance is key. Sometimes we have to compromise and accept. Not everything in life can be controlled. Almost everything essential in life comes in pairs. Success and failure. Happiness and sorrow. High and low.
The year 2016 has been nothing but a roller coaster ride. It was a year filled with bittersweet experiences, opportunities, challenges and great lessons. I would never have gotten this far without my family’s support and prayers.
2017, YEAR OF IMPROVEMENT
My hopes and dreams for my first baby — Mimpikita — shall continue to blossom as it matures. It may not be a walk in the park as big dreams are not easy to achieve overnight but with the support of my passionate team, I choose to persevere and do better.
Not only it is my responsibility to sustain the brand in the industry, but it is also my responsibility to provide a better life for my employees because happy employees cultivate creativity! Ultimately, creativity goes hand in hand with our aspiration and goals for this brand.
On top of that, after years of waiting, I also look forward to becoming a mother this year and that beats any other excitement at the moment. As I embark on this new journey, I hope to create more balance between my work and personal life. I have so many things on my to-do list this year and I hope I am capable of achieving them all — now that I’m expecting a baby.
It’s 2017, and I’m able to see the bright side of the past year. As I look back on 2016, I’m filled with gratitude. Every tear, worry and disappointment has taught me so much.
The New Year doesn’t necessarily have to start as a fight as we resolve to get fit, be the best mum or save the world. I want to start it in peace and love. The most important thing to remember is: always trust His plans and timing because He never gets them wrong.
I wish us all a fantastic year ahead filled with peace, acceptance and joy. Let’s be smart, let’s be talented, let’s create more but most importantly, let’s be ourselves and be kind to ourselves and the world around us. That’s my only resolution.
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
— Harriet Tubman.
Nurul Zulkifli, the creative director of Malaysian fashion house Mimpikita, shares her escapades in life, fashion and everything in-between. Follow her on Instagram at mimpikita@nurulzulkifli and @mimpi_kita.