Tag: #PersonalGrowth

Posted on

I Miss Her Sometimes (But I Don’t Want Her Back)

There’s a version of me I miss.
Not in a soft, sentimental way. I’m not scrolling through old photos, sighing over who I used to be. It’s more like an ache that creeps in when the house is too quiet, or the bills are piling up, or I’m halfway through my third mental spiral of the morning.

I miss the girl who didn’t know how tired she would eventually become.
I miss the version of me who woke up without dread. Who thought she had all the time in the world. Who thought things were hard, but had no idea what was coming. I miss her unshakable belief that things were going to work out just because she wanted them to.

She wasn’t naïve. Not entirely. She was smart. Capable. Driven when she needed to be. But she lived like the world still revolved around her, and in some ways, that was beautiful. There was power in it. Her sense of self wasn’t perfect, but it was intact. She had style, momentum, and that kind of direction that doesn’t always come from logic. It came from gut instinct and blind optimism. She didn’t have it all figured out, but she believed she would eventually.

Now, I don’t believe in eventuals. I believe in scraping things together. I believe in bracing for impact. I believe in trying to build something better without any real guarantee that it’ll ever become what I need it to be. And that’s not defeatist. That’s just what happens when you’ve been burned enough to know better.

What she didn’t know, and what I do now, is how quickly time turns into a resource you’re constantly chasing. She had energy to burn and didn’t even notice she was spending it. She made money during a golden hour of opportunity and didn’t understand the privilege in that. She poured herself into relationships, convinced that being everything for everyone would mean she was needed, wanted, safe. She thought if she handled enough, carried enough, gave enough, she would eventually be taken care of too.

I’d give anything to sit that girl down and tell her to stop.
To stop breaking herself into pieces for people who would never offer her the same.
To stop assuming love has to be earned through self-abandonment.
To stop confusing productivity with worth.

I’d tell her to put herself first. Not because it’s empowering or trendy, but because she’s the only constant she’s ever going to have.

She spent so much time chasing someone else’s definition of adulthood. Marriage. Kids. A house. The image of having it all together. She never stopped to question if she actually wanted that life. She thought being responsible meant chasing stability, even if the stability wasn’t hers. Even if it came at the cost of her peace. And once she realized that all those things she was killing herself to create weren’t going to happen, or weren’t going to be enough when they did, there wasn’t some big reckoning or transformation. There was just exhaustion.

The girl I was didn’t have it all. But she had something I don’t. Energy. Belief. Forward motion. She didn’t doubt herself at every turn. She didn’t feel guilty for existing. She didn’t constantly question whether she was doing enough, being enough, or falling behind. She got overwhelmed, sure, but she still thought she could climb out of it.

That’s the part I miss the most.

But here’s the thing. I don’t want her back.

I’ve lost things I can’t get back, but I’ve also walked away from things that were never mine to begin with. Jobs that drained me. Friendships that only survived on my effort. Relationships that blurred the line between love and obligation. I’ve learned that just because something is familiar doesn’t mean it’s worth clinging to. Just because someone wants you doesn’t mean they see you. Just because something looks good on paper doesn’t mean it won’t kill your joy.

I can’t say I feel proud of everything I’ve done since letting her go.
I’m still clawing my way toward a version of life that feels like it fits.
But I do know more now.
I know that the only person responsible for holding me together is me.
I know that stability isn’t something you find. It’s something you build slowly, quietly, without applause.
I know that peace matters more than appearances.

I still miss the mornings when I woke up excited for the day, when my world felt small enough to manage and wide enough to dream. I miss the freedom that came with working from home, having a little land, some chickens, a routine that didn’t leave me feeling depleted. I miss the fire I used to have. I want some of that back, but I want it on my terms this time.

Because I’m not trying to be her again.
I’m trying to take what she had that was good and build something stronger out of it.
Something quieter. Something mine.

This time, I won’t waste it trying to prove my worth.
This time, I’ll invest in myself the way no one else ever did.

She didn’t know yet.
But I do now.
And I’m not going to forget it.

If there’s a version of you that you miss too, one that felt braver, louder, softer, freer, I hope you know she’s not gone. Not really. You don’t have to go back to her. But maybe you can borrow a little of her fire while you build something she never even dreamed of.

You don’t owe anyone a full-circle story. Just keep going.
You’re allowed to miss her and still outgrow her.

xoxo
-S

Posted on

75 Hard Challenge | My Honest Day 57 Progress & Lessons

If you follow me on Instagram (@levelupsaho), you already know I’ve been all-in on the 75 Hard challenge. It’s not just another fitness challenge, it’s a full-scale commitment to showing up, every single day, no excuses. I didn’t start this on a whim, and I’m not coasting through it either. This challenge is teaching me more than I expected! Not just about self-discipline and mental toughness, but about my own cravings, limits, and capabilities.

Why I Took on 75 Hard

I needed something that would push me past my usual limits. Physically, mentally, and in every area of my life. Half-measures weren’t cutting it anymore. 75 Hard doesn’t let you negotiate with yourself. You either do the work or you start over. Two workouts a day (one outdoors for mental resilience), a gallon of water, 10 pages of reading, progress photos, and sticking to a strict diet. No shortcuts. No cheat days. No wiggle room.

But what I wasn’t expecting was how much I would start craving certain things. Moments of peace, structure, and even my outdoor workouts.

Unexpected Benefits of 75 Hard: Why I Crave My Walks

I thought I’d be craving sugar, rest days, or just an easy way out. Instead, I find myself needing my evening walk. Not because it’s part of the challenge, but because it’s become this essential moment where my mind slows down. No music. No distractions. Just me, the cold air, and the sound of my footsteps. It’s a craving I didn’t see coming, but one I don’t want to lose.

And then there’s the exhaustion. The kind that settles deep in my bones, making every muscle ache. But it’s not the kind of exhaustion that breaks me. It’s the kind that builds me. I’m learning that I can push through. That I can function even when my body is screaming at me to quit. Every day, I prove to myself that I have more in me than I thought.

What 75 Hard Has Taught Me About Self-Discipline

This isn’t a feel-good, just do your best kind of thing. Some days, I’m dialed in. Other days, I’m dragging myself through every task. But I get it done. Every single day. Because that’s the deal.

  • The exhaustion is real. There’s no skipping workouts because I’m tired. I show up anyway.
  • No compromises. There’s no “I’ll make up for it tomorrow.” You either hit your targets or you start over.
  • Mental grit is everything. Stripping out the noise and doing what needs to be done has sharpened my mindset more than I expected.
  • Craving routine. I used to resist structure, but now I find comfort in it. My workouts, reading, and meal planning have all become something I look forward to.
  • Seeing what I’m capable of. The biggest lesson? I’m stronger than I thought. Pushing past my own limits every day is proving that to me in ways nothing else ever has.

What I’ve Learned So Far from 75 Hard

I expected 75 Hard to be tough. I didn’t expect it to shift the way I see myself. I always thought I needed motivation. But what I actually needed was proof.

Proof that I can show up, even when I don’t want to.
Proof that I can handle exhaustion, discomfort, and self-doubt without letting them stop me.
Proof that I can trust myself to follow through on what I say I’ll do.

Follow My 75 Hard Journey on Instagram

I post the reality of this challenge daily on my Instagram stories. No filters. No sugarcoating. Just the actual work, struggles, and wins. If you’ve ever considered doing 75 Hard or just want to see what real commitment looks like, come follow along.

This isn’t about aesthetics or short-term wins. It’s about proving to myself that I can commit and execute no matter what. If you’re ready to take on something big in your own life, stop waiting for the perfect time. Just start.
xoxo
-S

//www.instagram.com/embed.js
Posted on

What I’ve Learned About Black Friday (and Why I’m Shifting Gears)

When I first planned this Black Friday series, I was excited to dive into all the deals and share them with you. I thought it would be a fun way to connect, highlight great finds, and promote my Amazon affiliate account. But the truth is, as the days have gone on, I’ve realized something important: this content doesn’t feel true to me or to what I think you come here for.

So let’s talk about it.

Why I Started This Series

Like many creators, I’m always looking for ways to grow and connect with my audience. Black Friday seemed like the perfect opportunity to do both while also testing the waters with Amazon’s affiliate program. I imagined curated lists, fun shopping tips, and a little holiday excitement.

But as I worked through each post, something didn’t sit right. The products and promotions didn’t align with my passions, and I found myself forcing content just to hit deadlines. That’s not fair to me, and it’s definitely not fair to you.

What I’ve Learned

The best content comes from a place of authenticity. It’s easy to fall into the trap of “shoulds.” I should post daily. I should cover trends. But the reality is, you can feel when my heart isn’t in it. And I never want to deliver something that feels hollow or disconnected from the values we’ve built here.

What I’ve learned is this: I thrive when I’m creating content that reflects my true interests. Whether that’s sharing tips for simplifying life, celebrating small wins, or diving into topics that matter to both of us, that’s where I belong.

Where I’m Headed

Instead of pushing forward with content that doesn’t feel genuine, I’m choosing to pivot. This doesn’t mean I’ll never highlight deals or share great finds again, but it does mean I’ll only do it when it feels meaningful and valuable to you.

For now, I’m focusing on the things that excite me. Creating resources. Sharing personal stories. Connecting in ways that inspire us both.

Thank You for Understanding

I want to thank you for your support, patience, and understanding as I navigate this shift. Your time is valuable, and I never want to take that for granted.

If you have ideas or topics you’d love to see, drop them in the comments. I’m always here to listen and grow with you.

Sometimes the best thing you can do is pause, reflect, and recalibrate. That’s exactly what this is: a chance to reconnect with what matters and make space for content that feels real.

Thank you for being here with me, and for allowing me to figure this out in real time.

xoxo
-S

Posted on

Letting Go

Goodbye to My Non-Farm Dreams

If someone had told me a few years ago that I’d be saying goodbye to my chickens, I probably would’ve laughed in their face. Those quirky, feathered little ladies brought so much joy into my life. They were part of my big homesteading dream, a dream I poured love, sweat, and way too much money into. If you’ve been around a while you are fully aware of all of the ups and downs I’ve faced with these cluckerellas. But here I am, writing this post with a bittersweet mix of emotions, knowing it’s time to let go.

Letting go of my non-farm dream wasn’t something I took lightly. It’s not easy to admit when a season of your life has run its course. But deep down, I knew it was time.

A Dream Hatched

When I first started raising chickens, it felt like a step toward a life I had always imagined. Fresh eggs, a little slice of self-sufficiency, and the simple pleasure of watching them scratch around in the yard. It was a dream that felt so right.

But life has a funny way of changing the script. As much as I adored those chickens, my circumstances shifted. The time, energy, and resources needed to care for them started to feel like too much. It became clear that the life I had envisioned was no longer aligning with the life I am building now.

The Goodbye

This week, I packed up my girls and drove them to their new home. A beautiful farm where they will have more space and freedom than I could ever provide. Watching them settle into their new coop was both heartwarming and gut-wrenching.

I cried. Of course I cried.

Saying goodbye is not just about the physical act of letting go. It is about mourning what could have been. But it is also about making peace with the fact that we cannot do everything, no matter how much we want to.

A New Chapter

Here is the silver lining. As one door closes, another opens. Letting go of my non-farm dream has freed up space physically and mentally to focus on other goals.

One of those goals is my health, and I am thrilled to share a milestone I have reached. I have lost 20 pounds at the time of filming. At the time of posting, it is over 30. I have lost 18.25 inches off my body. This progress has been months in the making, and honestly, it feels like a win I really needed right now.

I am learning that progress, whether in fitness, personal growth, or life in general, requires sacrifices. Letting go of my chickens is not just about saying goodbye to a dream. It is about embracing the bigger picture.

Lessons in Letting Go

If there is one thing I have learned through this process, it is this: letting go does not mean failure. It means making a conscious choice to prioritize what matters most in this season of life.

And that is okay.

It is okay to pivot. It is okay to put a dream on hold. It is okay to admit that something is not working anymore.

Because sometimes the hardest goodbyes are the ones that lead to the best beginnings.

Your Turn

Have you ever had to let go of something you loved to make room for something new? I would love to hear your story. Let’s talk about it in the comments below. 💬

And if you want the full behind-the-scenes scoop on this emotional goodbye, check out my latest video on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeYH_eiogvY

xoxo
-S

Posted on

Breaking the Cycle: Managing Snap Reactions and Finding Self-Forgiveness

We’ve all been there: a stressful day, a slight annoyance, and suddenly, we snap. But what happens when the person on the receiving end didn’t deserve it? More importantly, how do we forgive ourselves and break the cycle? Let’s dive in.

Understanding the Triggers

Identify the Triggers: The first step to managing snap reactions is to understand what triggers them. Reflect on the moments when you’ve snapped. Was it a specific situation, a particular person, or maybe even a certain time of day? Keeping a journal to track these instances can help you identify patterns.

Emotional Awareness: Snapping often comes from a place of stress, frustration, or feeling overwhelmed. Being more aware of these underlying emotions can help you address them before they escalate into a reaction.

Strategies to Manage Reactions

Pause and Reflect: When you feel the urge to snap, take a moment to pause and breathe. This short pause can provide the space needed to choose a more measured response rather than reacting impulsively.

Healthy Outlets: Finding healthier ways to express frustration is crucial. Physical exercise, engaging in a hobby, or talking things out with a trusted friend can provide much-needed relief and perspective.

Communication Skills: Practice clear and calm communication. Using “I” statements, such as “I feel frustrated when…” can help express your feelings without placing blame on others, reducing the likelihood of conflict.

Steps to Forgive Yourself

Acknowledge and Apologize: When you do snap, acknowledging it and offering a sincere apology to the affected person can mend relationships and reduce feelings of guilt.

Self-Compassion: It’s important to be kind to yourself. Remind yourself that everyone makes mistakes and that it’s okay to be imperfect. Beating yourself up over these moments only adds to the stress.

Learn and Grow: Use these experiences as opportunities to learn and grow. Each time you handle a situation better than before, you’re making progress towards breaking the cycle.

Practical Techniques for Long-Term Change

Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness and meditation can help you stay grounded and reduce overall stress, making it easier to manage your reactions.

Therapy or Counseling: If snapping is a frequent issue, consider seeking professional help. Therapy can provide tailored tools and strategies to help you manage your emotions more effectively.

Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a balanced lifestyle can have a significant impact on your emotional well-being. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep all contribute to better stress management.

Snapping at people occasionally is part of being human. The key is to recognize the pattern and work towards change. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. Remember, every step you take towards managing your reactions and forgiving yourself is a step towards a healthier, happier you.

xoxo
-S

Posted on

Motivation vs Discipline: Why Discipline Reigns Supreme

In the pursuit of our goals, motivation and discipline often emerge as guiding forces. While both play critical roles in achieving success, I firmly believe discipline holds a more significant and enduring impact. Let’s explore the differences between motivation and discipline and why discipline ultimately drives long-term success more effectively.

Understanding Motivation

Motivation sparks our desire to pursue a goal. It’s the initial burst of enthusiasm that propels us into action. This psychological force can be incredibly powerful, inspiring us to start new projects, set ambitious goals, and dream big.

Pros of Motivation:

  1. Inspiration: Motivation provides the emotional drive to begin new endeavors.
  2. Boosts Creativity: It often stimulates creativity and innovation.
  3. Emotional Reward: The sense of excitement and positivity enhances overall well-being.

Cons of Motivation:

  1. Fleeting: Motivation often fades over time.
  2. Reliance on External Factors: External circumstances and mood heavily influence it.
  3. Inconsistency: Fluctuations in motivation lead to inconsistency in efforts and progress.

Understanding Discipline

Discipline, on the other hand, means consistently applying effort regardless of emotional state. It’s about establishing routines, building habits, and adhering to a plan even when the initial excitement has faded.

Pros of Discipline:

  1. Consistency: Discipline ensures regular and sustained effort toward goals.
  2. Dependability: It relies on established routines and habits, not fluctuating emotions.
  3. Long-Term Success: The steady progress discipline fosters proves crucial for long-term achievements.

Cons of Discipline:

  1. Requires Effort: Building discipline presents challenges and requires significant effort and commitment.
  2. Perceived Rigidity: Strict adherence to routines might sometimes seem inflexible.
  3. Less Emotional Reward: The day-to-day grind can feel monotonous and less emotionally rewarding compared to the highs of motivation.

Why Discipline is More Effective

  1. Sustainability: While motivation might get you started, discipline keeps you going. Goals, especially ambitious ones, require sustained effort over long periods. Discipline provides the structure needed to maintain progress when motivation wanes.
  2. Building Habits: Success often results from good habits. Discipline is the key to establishing and maintaining these habits. By consistently adhering to a routine, you can create a solid foundation that drives continuous improvement and growth.
  3. Resilience: Life presents challenges and setbacks. Discipline equips you with the resilience to push through difficult times. When motivation drops, disciplined habits ensure that you continue to make progress, no matter how small.
  4. Predictability and Control: Discipline gives you control over your actions and outcomes. It removes the unpredictability that comes with relying solely on motivation. With discipline, you know what needs doing and when, leading to a more organized and efficient approach to achieving your goals.
  5. Focus and Clarity: Discipline maintains focus and clarity. It reduces distractions and keeps you aligned with your objectives. By prioritizing discipline, you can create an environment conducive to productivity and success.

Practical Tips for Cultivating Discipline

  1. Set Clear Goals: Clearly define your goals and break them down into actionable steps. This makes it easier to create a disciplined approach to achieving them.
  2. Create a Routine: Establish a daily routine that incorporates activities and habits that align with your goals. Consistency is key to building discipline.
  3. Start Small: Begin with small, manageable tasks to build momentum. Gradually increase the complexity and intensity as you become more disciplined.
  4. Stay Accountable: Hold yourself accountable by tracking your progress. Use journals, apps, or accountability partners to stay on track.
  5. Reward Yourself: Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Rewards can reinforce positive behavior and make the disciplined approach more enjoyable.

While motivation can light the fire of ambition, discipline keeps it burning. By cultivating discipline, you ensure steady progress towards your goals, regardless of the challenges and setbacks you encounter. Embrace discipline as your ally, and you’ll find it unlocks your full potential and achieves lasting success.

Remember, it’s not about how you start; it’s about how you keep going. Stay disciplined, stay focused, and watch your dreams turn into reality.

xoxo
-S

Posted on

Embracing the Power of Saying “No”

In our quest for a balanced and fulfilling life, one of the most empowering skills we can cultivate is the ability to say “no.” As I prepare to share a detailed video about my goals on my YouTube channel, Level Up Saho, I want to emphasize the importance of protecting those goals by confidently using the word “no” when necessary. Remember, “No.” is a complete sentence, and it is a vital tool in our journey toward self-improvement and alignment with our true aspirations.

Why Saying “No” Matters

Saying “no” is not about being negative or uncooperative. It’s about setting boundaries and prioritizing what truly matters to us. When we commit to our goals, whether they pertain to small-scale homesteading, weight loss, or any other life changes, we need to guard our time, energy, and focus. Every “yes” we give to something that doesn’t serve our purpose is a “no” to something that does.

The Challenge of Saying “No”

For many of us, saying “no” can be challenging. We fear disappointing others, missing out on opportunities, or being perceived as selfish. However, the real challenge lies in realizing that our time and resources are limited, and spreading ourselves too thin can dilute our efforts and derail our progress.

The Power of a Simple “No”

It’s essential to understand that “No.” is a complete sentence. It doesn’t require justification, explanation, or apology. This simple, yet powerful word helps us maintain our boundaries and stay true to our goals. By confidently saying “no,” we honor our commitments and ensure that our actions are aligned with our intentions.

Practical Tips for Saying “No”

  1. Be Clear About Your Goals: Knowing what you want to achieve makes it easier to recognize when a request or opportunity doesn’t align with your objectives. When you’re clear about your priorities, saying “no” becomes a natural response to anything that could distract you from your path.
  2. Practice Assertiveness: Assertiveness is the ability to express your needs and boundaries clearly and respectfully. Practice saying “no” in a firm, polite, and direct manner. Remember, you are not obligated to explain your reasons unless you choose to.
  3. Use “No” as a Shield: View “no” as a protective shield that guards your time, energy, and focus. Each time you use it, you are reinforcing your commitment to your goals and values.
  4. Be Prepared for Reactions: Not everyone will understand or appreciate your boundaries, and that’s okay. Stand firm in your decision and remember that your primary responsibility is to yourself and your goals.
  5. Reframe Your Perspective: Instead of viewing “no” as a rejection, see it as an affirmation of your priorities. Saying “no” to one thing often means saying “yes” to something more important.

Saying “no” is a vital skill for anyone committed to personal growth and goal achievement. It empowers us to protect our time and energy, ensuring that our actions align with our aspirations. As I prepare to share more about my goals in an upcoming video on Level Up Saho, I encourage you to embrace the power of “no” and use it confidently as a tool for staying true to your path.

Stay tuned for my upcoming video where I’ll dive deeper into my goals and share more insights on how to align your life with your true passions and purpose.

Remember, “No.” is a complete sentence. Use it wisely and watch how it transforms your journey.

Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences on this topic in the comments below. How have you learned to say “no” and what impact has it had on your life? Let’s support each other in our quest for a more aligned and fulfilling life!

Stay Level Up,
xoxo
-S

If you enjoyed this blog post, don’t forget to subscribe to Level Up Saho for more insights on homesteading, weight loss, and life changes. Together, we can achieve our goals and live our best lives. You can also follow my here on this blog, Diet Coke and Hairspray, for more personal stories and tips.

Posted on

Rediscovering Myself: A Journey Ahead

Life has a peculiar way of sweeping us along its currents, often pulling us away from the shores of our true selves. In the cacophony of daily obligations, expectations, and societal norms, we easily lose sight of who we truly are. I’ve come to a pivotal moment in my life where I realize I need to find myself again. This blog post is a heartfelt commitment to my future journey of self-rediscovery. Perhaps it might inspire you to embark on your own voyage of finding your true self.

The Gradual Erosion

Without noticing, we begin to drift away from our core. We become the roles we play—parent, partner, employee, business owner, friend—until those roles overshadow the essence of who we are. I’ve worn many of these identities like a second skin. Each layer adds a burden, each responsibility a distraction. Somewhere along the line, I stopped being ‘me’ and started being everything for everyone else. This realization did not come suddenly. It came slowly, over time, as I began to feel the weight of an inauthentic life pressing down on me.

The Wake-Up Call

My wake-up call came as a slow burn rather than a sudden jolt. It was the quiet realization on a Sunday morning, with a cup of coffee cooling in my hands, that I no longer recognized the person staring back at me in the mirror. My dreams, my passions, my unique quirks had buried under the weight of routine and the expectations of others. The familiarity of daily life had dulled my senses, numbing me to the loss of my true self. I need to reclaim my life, to strip away the layers that no longer serve me. It’s time to reawaken the dreams that once fueled my spirit and reconnect with the passions that once defined me.

Embracing Solitude

The first step in finding myself again involves embracing solitude. Not just physical solitude, but an emotional and spiritual one. I need to create a space where I can listen to the whispers of my soul, untainted by external noise. Long walks in nature, journaling, and quiet moments of reflection will become my sanctuary. In these moments, I hope to reconnect with the person I used to be. More importantly, the person I want to become. This solitude will not only serve as a retreat but as a workshop where I can rebuild and refine my sense of self.

Reigniting Passions

Rediscovery also means rekindling the flames of old passions and exploring new ones. I plan to dust off my paintbrushes, buy a new set of watercolors, and let my creativity flow. (Figuratively speaking. . . you don’t want anything to do with something I might be painting. . .) I will pick up books that have gathered dust on my shelf. Each page will take me back into the world of imagination and wonder. I want to start experimenting in the kitchen, turning cooking into a joyful, meditative practice rather than a chore. These activities, though small, will be profound in their ability to bring me back to life. Moreover, I intend to seek out new hobbies and interests, pushing the boundaries of my comfort zone to discover facets of myself that have yet to be revealed.

Setting Boundaries

An essential part of this journey involves learning to set boundaries. I have to learn to say ‘no’ without guilt and to prioritize my own well-being. It won’t be easy. People won’t always understand, but I know it’s necessary. I need to surround myself with people who uplift me. Those who understand my need for space and growth. Supportive friends who encourage my journey without judgment. I must communicate my needs clearly and assertively, making my personal growth a non-negotiable aspect of my life.

Fighting for Myself

A crucial element in this journey is learning to fight for myself so I don’t lose myself again. Life will always try to pull me in a million directions. I must stay grounded in my commitment to myself. I need to stand up for my own needs and desires, even when it’s uncomfortable. This fight means constantly reminding myself of my worth, advocating for my time, and resisting the pressures to conform to others’ expectations. It means being my own champion, my own best advocate, and fiercely protecting the boundaries I set.

Embracing Challenges

I also recognize that this journey will not be without its challenges. There will be moments when I doubt myself. Times when the path forward seems unclear. I need to embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth. Each obstacle will serve as a lesson. Each setback a stepping stone. By facing these difficulties head-on, I will become stronger and more resilient. I intend to approach these challenges with a mindset of curiosity and learning, viewing them as integral parts of my journey rather than impediments to my progress.

The Ongoing Journey

Finding oneself is not a destination but an ongoing journey. There will be moments of clarity and moments of doubt. Times when I feel in sync with my inner self and times when I feel lost again. But I’ve come to understand that this is part of the process. I will continually peel back the layers, question, explore, and evolve. I will celebrate the small victories and learn from the missteps, always keeping my eyes on the goal of living authentically and fully.

The Beauty of Rediscovery

In this journey of self-rediscovery, I aim to find beauty in vulnerability and strength in authenticity. I’ve learned that it’s okay to not have all the answers, that it’s okay to be a work in progress. Each day, I strive to be a little more me, to live a life that resonates with my true self. And in doing so, I hope to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery. I envision a future where I am not only more attuned to my own needs and desires but also better equipped to support and inspire those around me.

Finding myself again will be a challenging but profoundly rewarding experience. I commit to this journey, with all its ups and downs. If you, too, feel disconnected, I encourage you to take that first step. Embrace the journey back to you. You are worth it.

This post serves not just as a reflection but a call to action. Let’s reclaim our identities, pursue our passions, and live authentically. Together, we can find our way back to ourselves and create lives that truly reflect who we are. The road ahead may be long, but it promises a return to the vibrant, true selves we were always meant to be.

xoxo
-S