When I decided to change my career and join Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM), I thought I was making a professional decision. I expected new responsibilities, new colleagues, and a different work environment. What I did not expect was how deeply this move would change the way I live, think, and care for myself. Looking back now, the transition was not just a change of career; it was a change of lifestyle, and perhaps even a quiet transformation of who I am.

One of the biggest changes began with something very simple: walking.

Living on campus means that walking is part of my daily routine. I walk to my office, to the library, to ZUS Coffee, and sometimes just to clear my mind. Before coming to XMUM, I had never walked this much in my life. Like many working adults, my days involved a lot of sitting: driving, working at my desk, or attending meetings. Even when I needed to go to class, I would park as close as possible and avoid walking more than necessary. Movement was something I unconsciously tried to minimize. Even when I tried to schedule exercise, most of the time it never happened.

At XMUM, walking became effortless and natural. The campus is designed for people to move: shaded paths, open spaces, and beautifully maintained greenery make every walk pleasant. What began as a necessity slowly became something I looked forward to.

Somewhere along the way, I discovered something unexpected: walking brings serenity.

There are moments between classes or meetings when I walk slowly under the trees, feeling the breeze and watching students pass by. Sometimes, I pause by the lake, watching the geese glide quietly across the water, unhurried and undisturbed. During these short walks, my thoughts begin to settle. Problems that once felt overwhelming become clearer. Ideas for lectures, research, or writing quietly take shape. Walking has become my thinking time, a space where my mind can breathe.

In a way, the campus itself has become my thinking companion.

This change in movement also led to another shift. I began exercising regularly. The facilities at XMUM make it easy to build healthy habits. The running track, gym, and swimming pool are not just well-maintained; they are inviting. For someone who never saw herself as an “exercise person”, this was a surprise.

Slowly, a routine formed. A short run. A gym session. Occasional swimming. Nothing extreme, but consistent.

Over time, I began to notice the difference. I felt healthier. My energy levels improved. More importantly, I felt calmer and more structured. Exercise gave rhythm to my days and a sense of discipline that extended beyond physical health.

This calmer state of mind began to influence my work as well.

With reasonable teaching hours and a more balanced daily routine, I found myself thinking more clearly and working more intentionally. I began writing again, not out of pressure, but out of interest and enjoyment. The ideas came more naturally. The process felt less rushed and more thoughtful.

I may not have produced my best publications yet, but something more important has happened: I have rediscovered the joy of writing.

For the first time in many years, I feel that I have space: space to think, to reflect, to grow. I have time not only to fulfil my professional responsibilities but also to invest in my own development. There is a quiet satisfaction in ending the day knowing that I have taken care of both my work and myself.

This balance is something I did not realise I was missing until I found it here.

XMUM did not just give me a new job. It gave me a healthier routine, a calmer mind, and a renewed sense of purpose. It reminded me that productivity is not about doing more, but about living well enough to do meaningful work.

Sometimes, life-changing moments do not come from dramatic events. They come from small, daily experiences: a quiet walk under the trees, morning stretches under the sun, and a clear mind before opening a blank page.

As XMUM celebrates its 10th anniversary, I find myself deeply grateful to be part of this community. This campus has given me more than a workplace. It has given me a way of living that I hope to carry with me for many years to come.

XMUM did not just change my career. It changed my pace, my priorities, and the way I live. For that, I will always be grateful.

By Dr. Norzita binti Yunus

School of Communication