It’s the same routine every day.

I wake up to a song on Spotify — this week, BIRDS OF A FEATHER by Billie Eilish — and head for a treadmill run, watching the sun slowly rise through the window. After my run, I shower, get dressed, and find myself here: a cozy coffee shop near the office, now my favorite spot to write in the neighborhood.

Before diving into the busy workday ahead, I give myself 40 minutes to reflect on the past week. A quiet moment, a chance to pause and look back.

Here’s to my week 1507.

1. Teeth Are Decoratable

That day, I went to the dentist for my regular three-month checkup. After completing the usual paperwork and waiting for a short while, I was led into my regular treatment room.

As I settled in, I noticed something different: an advertisement for Teeth Jewelry stuck to the pole next to the sink where I rinse my mouth.

The ad’s tagline read, “Recommended for those who want to…” and listed things like:

• “boost confidence in your smile”
• “change the shape or appearance of your teeth”
• “enjoy unique fashion”
• “express individuality”

I couldn’t help but think —

Are people really decorating their teeth now?

It seemed like an unusual trend. I wondered if it would make brushing more difficult or uncomfortable. But even though I felt a little uncertain, I couldn’t quite understand why it felt strange.

Nevertheless, for me, I figured I didn’t need any extra shine. My mouth already sparkled with a collection of silver fillings, so I probably wouldn’t be adding any “bling” to my smile anytime soon.

2. The Power of Giving

I donated blood.

I had originally planned to go to kickboxing, but when I saw the blood donation bus parked in front of the station, I couldn’t just walk past it.

At the tent where the staff were checking people in, I learned that this was actually my first time donating blood. I couldn’t quite remember whether I had donated in the past, but I had a vague sense that I might not have.

Since starting my career, I’ve been exposed to the many diverse needs within society.

Over time, I’ve started feeling that I want to give back, even in small ways, for the good, safe, and healthy life I’m able to live.

I don’t necessarily have to start a company that creates social value or do anything extraordinary, but through small actions in my everyday life, I want to contribute to the community that supports me.

After donating, I took a break while munching on a chocolate biscuit from the donation truck.

In that moment, I felt a sense of happiness and fulfillment far greater than any after a powerful punch landed during kickboxing.

It was a reminder that sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness or generosity bring a deeper, more lasting sense of joy.

3. The People I Work With Shape My Happiness at Work

I recently attended our company’s year-end party.

With December upon us and the holiday season in full swing, our company decided to have the event a little earlier than usual. Looking back on 2024, it’s been a year of change and growth for our team, which has nearly doubled in size despite some turnover.

I’ve been learning that, for me, the people I work with play a bigger role in my work motivation than the tasks themselves.

This insight came from having experienced both environments: one where I felt engaged and excited, and another where I didn’t. This contrast has made it clear now that the right team can have a huge impact on my overall work experience.

I feel lucky to be in a workplace where I look forward to Mondays and genuinely feel excited about the week ahead. It’s a privilege to be surrounded by colleagues who share the same goals and respect each other.

But beyond just sharing professional interests, what stands out are the people who inspire me to grow, challenge myself, and even strive to be a better version of myself.

I’m the youngest member of our team, and it’s humbling to see how much I can learn from everyone.

I don’t take this environment for granted. I appreciate it more than I sometimes realize, and it’s something I’m grateful for every day.

Walking to work down a street lined with vibrant autumn leaves, I feel that these mornings are a little bit special.

Hope you had a nice week as well.

Catch you next week!