Previous years: 2022.

Next years: 2024.

This was a hot period. We moved to the UAE, I started a new job, and we spent most of our time at home — a thermal, physical, and mental challenge all at once.

Despite everything, I enjoyed the year. I grew accustomed to Dubai and really liked the city.

Gadgets

The Steam Deck was my gadget of the year. Since we spent most of our time at home, it became the best way to stay entertained and sane.

Software

Excalidraw became my go-to tool for every meeting. In many cases, I now find it much easier to draw prototypes there than to use pen and paper.

Video games

Baldur’s Gate 3. It reminds me about real tabletop RPGs that we run with the friends - the same delightful mix of chaos and love.

Board games

Wingspan. We might still be playing Everdell if we had a physical version, but we only had the digital edition, which began to frustrate us. We sought a similar strategic experience, yet beautifully illustrated — and found Wingspan.

Books

Thinking in systems

This book gave me insight into what I enjoy most about software development — investigating how systems work.

Four Thousand Weeks

I had never read anything about time management, but after struggling to focus at work, I decided it was time to start. While I didn’t gain practical advice on how to control my time, I did come to appreciate the importance of avoiding unnecessary distractions and saying no.

The Creative Act

I use this book to motivate myself, keeping it close and opening a random page from time to time.

Think: A Compelling Introduction to Philosophy

For a long time, I wanted to explore philosophy, and this year I began my journey with this introduction.