Tag: life

Taking Care of Me: My Self-Care Routine

Jun 23rd, 2025

Self-care is something I’ve come to truly value, especially when life gets overwhelming. One of the main ways I look after myself is by eating healthy and staying active. I’ve found that exercise is one of the best ways to release stress — it helps get out all the tension and pressure from daily life. Whether it’s a walk, a quick session on the treadmill, or stretching out on the mat, it always leaves me feeling better and more balanced.

Another big part of how I care for myself is writing. I keep a notebook (or sometimes just type it out) and jot down how I’m feeling that day. Emotions, thoughts, what’s been going on — getting it all down helps clear my head. I also try to write positive things about myself, things I like or things I’m proud of, even if they’re small. It’s a great reminder that I’m doing my best, and that’s enough.

I used to do yoga regularly, and it made such a difference to both my mind and body. It helped me feel more relaxed and gave my mind space to breathe. Life can be full-on, and yoga gave me that peaceful pause I needed. I’d really love to get back into it again.

And something I’ve learned that’s just as important as anything else — talking. Talking about how you feel, letting it out of your system, not bottling things up. Whether it’s with a friend, a loved one, or even a professional, just sharing what’s on your mind can lift such a weight off your shoulders.

Self-care isn’t just about pampering or routines — it’s about being kind to yourself, especially on the hard days. I’m learning that little things, done often, can make a big difference.

Daily writing prompt
How do you practice self-care?
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Trying Not to Waste the Day (But My Phone Has Other Plans)

Jun 22nd, 2025

I always try not to waste my day. If I can help it, I like to feel like I’ve done something—whether that’s ticking off a task, spending time with someone I care about, or just getting out for some fresh air. It doesn’t have to be a big accomplishment, just something that makes me feel like the day wasn’t lost.

But then there’s my phone.

If I’m being real, I spend a lot of time on it—more than I’d like to admit. Screen time? Yeah, it’s high. Most of it is scrolling—feeds, videos, updates, random stuff that catches my eye. It’s weird because I don’t even always notice I’m doing it. One minute I pick up my phone to check a message, and next thing I know, 45 minutes have flown by. It’s automatic, almost like muscle memory.

And I hate that.

Because while I tell myself I want to make the most of my time, I end up in this loop. Scroll, feel guilty, put the phone down, and then… pick it up again without realizing. It’s a habit I really want to work on—for my own peace of mind, but also because I know I could be using that time for things that actually matter to me.

I’m not aiming to be perfect or throw my phone away. But even just being more aware of how often I pick it up—and why—feels like a good place to start. I want my time to feel intentional. I want my days to feel full, not just filled with noise.

So here’s to making small shifts, catching ourselves in the moment, and choosing something better when we can.

One scroll less at a time.

Daily writing prompt
How do you waste the most time every day?
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Dreaming Together: The Adventures My Husband and I Would Love to Go On

Jun 18th, 2025
Recently, a simple prompt sparked something beautiful in me — a vision of the adventures my husband and I would love to experience together. There’s something truly special about dreaming side by side, imagining the places we’ll explore hand in hand and the memories we’ll create. Our bucket list sparkles with incredible destinations: Italy, France, New York, and Canada. Each place promises its own magic, and I want to share the adventures we dream of in more detail — moments we can’t wait to live.

Italy: A Romantic Journey Through Time

Italy feels like a love letter written in art, history, and food. I picture us wandering together through Rome’s ancient streets, our footsteps echoing in places that have witnessed centuries of passion and power.
- Prompt: Imagine us sharing a cappuccino on a sunlit Roman terrace, the city waking up around us. What stories will we imagine of the emperors and artists who once walked these streets?
- Prompt: Visualize a gondola ride in Venice at sunset, the water shimmering as we float past historic palaces. How will the quiet magic of the canals deepen our connection?
- Prompt: Picture us cycling through the Tuscan countryside, stopping to taste fresh olives and sip Chianti wine beneath a warm golden sky. What laughter and conversations will fill these moments?
- Prompt: Envision exploring Florence’s museums together, standing before masterpieces that capture the human spirit — how will this inspire us both?
France: The Art of Living and Loving

France, with its timeless elegance and charm, feels like the perfect backdrop for a romantic adventure. Paris, in particular, calls to us with its beauty and endless surprises.
- Prompt: Imagine us strolling along the Seine, hands intertwined, as the city lights start to twinkle. What dreams will the river’s gentle flow carry for us?
- Prompt: Picture sitting in a cozy café in Montmartre, savoring flaky croissants and rich coffee while listening to the soft hum of Parisian life. How will this slow moment remind us to savor life’s simple pleasures?
- Prompt: Visualize a day trip to the lavender fields of Provence, where the scent fills the air and the endless purple blooms stretch before us. How will this landscape bring peace and joy to our souls?
- Prompt: Envision wandering together through cobbled streets of a quaint village, sharing stories with locals and discovering hidden gems. What new perspectives will this open for us?
New York: Energy and Excitement Hand in Hand

New York is a city alive with possibility — a place where every corner pulses with energy and dreams. I see us diving into its vibrant life, soaking up the sights, sounds, and flavors together.
- Prompt: Imagine our first glimpse of Times Square at night, surrounded by dazzling lights and buzzing crowds. How will this whirlwind of energy inspire our own ambitions?
- Prompt: Picture us relaxing in Central Park, watching street performers and enjoying a picnic on a sunny afternoon. What peaceful moments will balance the city’s fast pace?
- Prompt: Envision us watching a Broadway show, the music and stories drawing us into another world. How will this shared experience spark our own creativity?
- Prompt: Imagine exploring diverse neighborhoods — tasting dumplings in Chinatown, dancing to jazz in Harlem, and browsing art galleries in Brooklyn. How will these discoveries enrich our understanding of the world and each other?
Canada: Wilderness and Wonder Together

For a different kind of adventure, Canada offers vast wild beauty and quiet reflection. I dream of us exploring its pristine landscapes, finding peace and strength in nature’s embrace.
- Prompt: Imagine standing side by side beneath the Northern Lights, colors swirling overhead in a cosmic dance. How will this awe-inspiring moment deepen our bond?
- Prompt: Picture hiking together in the Rocky Mountains, breathing in crisp, fresh air, surrounded by towering peaks. What conversations will flow as we share this breathtaking view?
- Prompt: Visualize paddling a canoe across a crystal-clear lake at dawn, the water mirroring the sky. How will this serene experience refresh our spirits?
- Prompt: Envision cozying up in a rustic cabin after a day of adventure, sharing stories by the fire. How will this quiet time nurture our connection?
These adventures are more than trips; they’re dreams we hold close, hopes to explore the world — and each other — more deeply. I’m so excited to share these experiences with my husband, building a lifetime of memories one adventure at a time.

What adventures do you dream of sharing with your loved one? I’d love to hear your bucket list too — maybe together we’ll inspire each other’s journeys.
Wanderlust Dreams: Places I Long to Visit (and Revisit!)

Jun 18th, 2025

There’s something magical about the idea of hopping on a train, watching the world blur by as you drift from one city to the next. I often find myself daydreaming about doing exactly that—just packing a small bag, grabbing a window seat, and letting the rails lead me through beautiful landscapes and iconic destinations.

At the top of my list? Italy—again. I’ve been before, and yet I feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface. There’s something timeless about Italy, from the cobblestone streets of Rome to the dreamy canals of Venice. And let’s not forget the rolling hills of Tuscany or the dramatic coastline of the Amalfi Coast. The food, the art, the history—it calls me back every time.

Then there’s France, a country that seems to embody romance and elegance. I’d love to stroll through the lavender fields of Provence, sip coffee at a quiet Parisian café, and admire the breathtaking châteaux scattered throughout the countryside. France has this effortless beauty that I just can’t resist.

And though it’s not a country, New York holds a special place in my heart. The city buzzes with energy, but there’s also a different kind of magic when you explore upstate New York—lush forests, charming small towns, and peaceful lakes. It’s a mix of fast-paced life and natural serenity, and I want to experience both.

Canada is another place I’d love to explore more deeply. From the rugged coastlines of Nova Scotia to the majestic Rockies in Alberta, and the multicultural cities like Toronto and Vancouver, there’s just so much variety. The sheer scale and beauty of the Canadian landscape are calling me.

Honestly, my list doesn’t end there—there are so many more places I’d love to see. I imagine catching a train from one destination to the next, each stop a new story waiting to be lived. Traveling by train feels slow in the best way: no airports, no rush, just the chance to soak in the scenery and live in the moment.

Here’s to the day I finally step aboard that train and start crossing these dreams off my map.

Daily writing prompt
What countries do you want to visit?
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Finding My Voice: Overcoming the Fear of Speaking Up

Jun 2nd, 2025

For most of my life, one of my biggest struggles has been speaking my mind—especially when I’ve felt uncomfortable, unsure, or unhappy in certain situations. Whether it was in the workplace or everyday life, I used to hold back my thoughts, opinions, and even questions out of fear. Fear of conflict, fear of being judged, and sometimes, fear of simply not being heard.

It wasn’t easy.

Over the years, I found myself in situations where I stayed silent, even when something didn’t sit right with me. In meetings, I’d nod along even if I didn’t fully agree. If I needed clarification or advice at work, I’d hesitate to ask, worried it might make me look incapable or weak. And when uncomfortable moments arose—whether professionally or personally—I’d often put my own feelings aside for the sake of keeping the peace.

But bottling things up took its toll. It left me feeling frustrated, overlooked, and, in some cases, even taken advantage of. It became clear that staying quiet wasn’t helping anyone—least of all, me.

Slowly but surely, I started learning to use my voice. I began asking questions when I didn’t understand something. I voiced concerns when something didn’t feel right. I stopped saying “yes” when I really meant “no.” And perhaps most importantly, I began standing up for what I believed in, even when it felt uncomfortable.

Was it scary? Absolutely. Speaking up isn’t always easy—especially when you’ve spent years convincing yourself not to. But every time I did it, I grew more confident. I realized that asking for help doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human. That disagreeing respectfully doesn’t make you difficult—it makes you honest. And that setting boundaries doesn’t push people away—it teaches them how to treat you.

People can and will step over you if you let them. That’s a lesson I’ve learned the hard way. But now, I know that my voice matters—and so does yours.

If you’re someone who struggles with speaking up, I see you. I’ve been there. And I promise, it’s possible to find your voice. Start small. Speak honestly. And remind yourself that your thoughts, feelings, and experiences are valid. Because they are. Always.

Daily writing prompt
What fears have you overcome and how?
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The Qualities I Value Most in a Friend

May 30th, 2025

Friendship is one of the most beautiful parts of life. It’s not about having a huge group of people around you, but about having the right people. The kind of friend who brings peace, laughter, and support into your life. Over the years, I’ve come to realize that there are a few key qualities that really matter to me in a friend — things that go deeper than surface-level fun or casual conversations.

1. Honesty – Even When It’s Hard
I don’t need someone who tells me what I want to hear all the time. I value honesty — the kind that’s kind and constructive. A real friend is someone who can tell me the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable, because they care enough to want what’s best for me. Whether it’s giving honest feedback, owning up to a mistake, or being real about how they’re feeling, honesty builds trust — and trust is everything.

2. Caring – The Little Things Matter
A good friend shows they care. It’s not about grand gestures (though those are lovely too), but the small, consistent actions — checking in when they know you’re down, remembering little details about your life, or simply asking how your day really went. It’s that quiet, steady presence that reminds you: you matter.

3. Always There – Rain or Shine
Life has its ups and downs, and I appreciate friends who don’t disappear when things get tough. The ones who stick around during the awkward, messy, or emotional moments — those are the gems. You don’t have to talk every day, but knowing that someone will show up when it counts? That’s gold.

4. A Good Listener – Not Just Waiting to Talk
We all need to be heard. A friend who listens without interrupting, without trying to fix everything right away, or turning the conversation back to themselves — that kind of friend is rare and so deeply appreciated. Sometimes, the best thing someone can do is just be there and listen.

5. Doesn’t Take Themselves Too Seriously – Let’s Just Be Real
Life’s too short to always be polished and perfect. I love friends who can laugh at themselves, who aren’t afraid to be silly, weird, or goofy. There’s something freeing about being around someone who’s genuine, down-to-earth, and not trying to impress anyone. It makes space for real connection.

At the end of the day, I think the best friendships are the ones where you can be your full self — honest, vulnerable, imperfect — and still feel loved. That kind of connection isn’t always easy to find, but when you do, it’s worth holding onto.

What qualities matter most to you in a friend? I’d love to hear your thoughts. 💬

Daily writing prompt
What quality do you value most in a friend?
View all responses
Finding My Way: A Working Life of Ups, Downs & New Beginnings

May 29th, 2025

Over the years, I’ve worn many hats in the working world. Some jobs shaped me, some challenged me, and others simply helped me get from one chapter of life to the next. But each one has played a part in the journey—and I’ve learned a lot along the way.

The role that still stands out as my favourite was the one I had for 14 years. I worked as a PA for a property company, and I absolutely loved it. The work suited me perfectly—I enjoyed being organised, staying on top of things, and supporting the team. Even more importantly, I made real friendships during that time. It was the kind of job where you felt part of something and looked forward to going in each day.

Unfortunately, like many good things, it came to an end. I was made redundant, and that hit hard. After being in one place for so long, it felt like the ground had been pulled from under me. I suddenly found myself in a sea of temporary jobs—none of them particularly fulfilling. They helped pay the bills, but that spark I’d once felt was missing.

Eventually, I landed a role in the NHS. I stayed there for three years, and although it seemed like a secure, meaningful job on paper, the reality was very different. It was high-pressure, emotionally draining, and there was very little support. Over time, the stress started to impact my health. I began to experience anxiety and panic attacks—something I had never dealt with before. I tried to push through, but my body and mind were telling me it was too much. In the end, I made the difficult but necessary decision to leave for the sake of my wellbeing.

That decision wasn’t easy, but it was right.

Now, I’m in a new role—working part-time in reception. It’s a much quieter environment, and most importantly, it’s not stressful. For the first time in a long while, I feel like I can breathe. I’m not constantly on edge or overwhelmed, and that has made such a difference to my mental health. It may not be as fast-paced or high-profile as some of my past jobs, but it gives me balance, and right now, that’s exactly what I need.

Sometimes life takes you in directions you never expected. The job that once defined you might disappear. The new one might not be what you hoped. But with time, patience, and a bit of courage, things do settle—and even improve.

I’m still figuring things out, but I’m grateful to be in a better place. And who knows what’s next? For now, I’m just taking it one step at a time—and that feels like progress.

Daily writing prompt
What jobs have you had?
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Do I Remember Life Before the Internet?

May 27th, 2025

It’s funny when I stop and think about it — do I actually remember life before the internet? Honestly, the internet has always been there in some shape or form for as long as I can remember. Maybe not in the way we know it now, but it’s always been part of the backdrop of my life. That said, it has come such a long way. The internet I first knew was slow, limited, and mostly used on shared family computers with dial-up connections that screamed whenever they connected (and blocked the house phone at the same time!). Today, it’s advanced beyond anything I could have imagined — lightning fast, available in our pockets, and woven into every part of daily life.

But if we shift the focus slightly, I do remember something quite clearly — life before social media.

And for me, that was a blessing.

Growing up without social media meant I didn’t have the added pressure of likes, followers, filters, or online personas. I lived in a bit of a bubble, and looking back, I’m grateful for it. I wasn’t comparing myself constantly to others. I wasn’t scrolling late into the night or worrying about how I looked online. My friendships were formed in person, my memories were captured in photo albums — not in highlight reels.

There was more space to just be. To be a kid. To be present. To make mistakes without them being broadcast or remembered forever online.

While I appreciate all the ways the internet and social media have connected the world, offered opportunities, and sparked creativity, I’m thankful that my younger years were spent without that particular spotlight. It feels rare now — almost like a forgotten way of growing up.

So while I may not have lived completely without the internet, I did live without the constant buzz of social media. And for that little pocket of peace, I’m incredibly thankful.

Daily writing prompt
Do you remember life before the internet?
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A Wake-Up Call: Health, Healing & Taking the Next Step

May 16th, 2025

Recently, my mum was admitted to hospital. She’s been living with angina and a few other health issues for the past three years, but something about this latest episode really shook me. It’s not easy seeing someone you love go through something like that — no matter how strong you try to be on the outside.

It’s made me reflect a lot — about her health, yes, but also about my own.

I’ve been saying for a while that I want to get healthier, to lose a bit of weight, to take better care of myself. But like so many people, I’ve found it hard to stay consistent. Life gets in the way. Stress creeps in. Good intentions get put on hold.

But watching my mum go through this has reminded me how important our wellbeing really is. It’s not about perfection — it’s about doing better, even in small ways. Choosing to walk a little more. Eating things that nourish rather than just comfort. Taking that moment to slow down and breathe.

It’s also made me think more deeply about emotional health.

When my dad passed away, therapy was something that truly helped me. It gave me space to process, to grieve, to speak freely — even though opening up has never come easily to me. Honestly, I still struggle with it. I think it runs in the family — we’re not great at talking about our feelings. We hold things in, carry on, pretend we’re fine.

But I’m starting to realize that staying quiet doesn’t make the pain go away. It just buries it deeper. And maybe it’s time I went back to therapy. Not because I’m falling apart — but because I want to keep myself together. I want to grow, to cope better, and to make peace with the things I’m still holding on to.

So this is my gentle promise to myself: to take small steps forward. To be kinder to my body. To check in with my mind. And to remember that asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s strength.

If you’ve been putting your own health or healing on the back burner, maybe this is your reminder too.

You’re allowed to start again.
Friday Thoughts: Health, Epilepsy & Getting Prepared

May 16th, 2025

Morning all!
Hope everyone’s doing well and enjoying this Friday — we’ve made it to the end of the week!

Lately, I’ve been reflecting a bit more on my health. I live with myoclonic epilepsy, and although it’s something I’ve managed for a while now, it still finds ways to catch me off guard sometimes.

Last month, I had a bit of a moment — I suddenly felt shaky all over my body and just couldn’t concentrate. It was a strange, unsettling feeling. Thankfully, it doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it really makes me pause and think.

One thing that came to mind during all of this was the fact that I don’t currently wear any form of medical ID. Years ago, back in my twenties, I used to wear a medical alert bracelet — but like so many things, over time it just stopped being part of my routine.

Now, I’m starting to think it’s time to bring that back.

While browsing online, I came across a medical ID bracelet that really stood out — modern, stylish, and best of all, it connects to your phone. All your important medical information can be accessed quickly if needed. It gave me peace of mind just looking at it.

Living with epilepsy means being prepared — not in fear, but with quiet confidence. And sometimes, it’s the little things like a simple bracelet that can make all the difference if the unexpected happens.

So, that’s my little reminder to myself (and maybe to you, too): take a moment to check in with your health, think about what you might need, and don’t hesitate to take small steps that could have a big impact.

Wishing you all a calm, happy Friday. Be kind to yourselves.