As an introvert, one of the most precious things to me is a quiet moment to gather my energy. These solitary weekends serve this purpose for me. I get to read and watch TV uninterrupted (unless the cats decide they need their human butler to serve them in some way or another😂). It’s also my time to think, plan, and write, even if no one will see my writing.
As a single mum, this is an extra special treat. I have often heard friends and colleagues mention how their partner has taken the kids to sports practice or out for the afternoon. As a single parent, I have to do it all. When my son was younger, I would get a break during holidays but during the school term, it was up to me to get him where he needed or wanted to be. I wouldn’t change the challenges of being a single mum for all the gold in the world. They make me appreciate these quiet moments even more because they give me the energy to keep showing up as the best mum I can be.
A Question for You
What is one thing in your life today that you feel quietly grateful for?
A few months ago, I think I was listening to a podcast. One of the topics was about getting back to being yourself to de-stress. At the time I was feeling a bit overwhelmed with my job and new team. I took a moment to remember those times in my life when I was most relaxed. What did I do every day or most often?
I used to journal often. I have never really being a daily journal writer but I have used to write in my journal a few times a week. I also used to read a lot. So started to journal more often. I had become so lackadaisical about it that my entries were months apart. (Much like my blogging 🤪) I am back to journaling a few times a week. It really helps to clear my head.
I have always read but I had gotten into the habit of only reading non-fiction. I still enjoy them, but I didn’t realise how much I missed fiction until I decided to tackle the many unread books on my bookshelf. I have gotten back to enjoying Michael Connelly and Jonathan Kellerman. I have finally started reading Stephen Leather novels. I do find them a little slower than Connelly and Kellerman. It also drives me insane that his books do not have chapters. There are just paragraph breaks. Dan Shepard has grown on me though so I will continue to read Stephen Leather’s books. I also like the fact that his stories are set in the UK. I love just about everything British. The slowest books though are Robert Galbraith’s (aka J.K. Rowling). They seem to follow a similar story arc as the Harry Potter books. The bit in the middle can be quite convoluted but it always comes together pretty well. I do like Robyn and Comoran Strike so i will continue to persevere through all the convoluted middles.😁. I am really enjoying reading again and am grateful that I can read.
I am always on the lookout for new authors, so do share any murder mystery or spy authors you enjoy.
I have to say that both reading and journaling have helped me get back to feeling like my old self again and this has helped lower my stress levels, and helped me gain perspective and clarity on certain things.
What have you done differently to relive stress this year? Let me know in the comments.
It’s two hours to midnight as I write this. I don’t know about you, but I am so excited. We are on the precipice of another year which to me means another opportunity to grow and learn and evolve.
‘Fear is a poor chisel with which to carve out tomorrow.’ – Andy Andrews
This year, I chose to put my fears in my back pocket so that I could get out of my own way and grow. It was scary but I did it. I cannot tell you how often I caught myself behaving in a way that scared me in the past or speaking to people that I did not ever have the guts to talk to before. This happened partly because I chose to believe in myself and partly because the people I admired believed in me. When someone I respect and admire asks me to step up because they think I can, I do my best to meet their expectations because they are going on a limb for me. I am grateful for the growth and the leadership opportunities I have been given at work this year.
Image created on Canva
I am also really grateful for my son’s growth this year. He incorporates elements of each new experience into how he shows up every day. I can’t really ask for more than that. Next year is a big year for him at school, so that’s where my focus will be: giving him all the support he will allow me to give.
Next year is also potentially a big year for me. Our company is going through changes so I don’t know if I will have a job next year. We have said goodbye to so many good people already due to the change and there will be more to come. I do believe that change is good and if it happens to me then something better awaits me on the other side.
I tried putting a new vision board together this evening or at least updating my current one (not sure if that is the norm), but nothing jumped out at me, so I am taking that as a sign that my current vision board is still relevant and I just need to have patience. I am pretty happy about that as I still desire all the things and experiences I have on it.
That’s it from me one last time this year. Thank to those of you who been on the journey with me this entire month. I am grateful for your support.
All the best for 2025! May your year be blessed with only good things, people, experiences and lots of love and laughter!
Bye for now!
The year that was! Places visited, product launches, achievements 🙂 It’s been quite a full year!
Grounded African 