Jade

This came to me at the right time. I have my fingers dipped in so many different pies. Work wise, study, friendship groups, house work, people pleasing, boyfriend demands. I am so focused on meeting every expectation. What about stopping to smell the roses? Is coincidental that mum just pruned the entire backyard down. There’s not much to smell. I’m really exhausted, and I’m annoyed that I don’t have any time to myself. I’m looking forward to a day where I can relievingly do the things I feel like doing and that I want to do. I miss the little things - long walks in the bush, cleaning my room out, cleaning my car out, going to markets, catching up for coffees, reading magazines. I’m so on-demand. And yes, some times we spread ourselves too thin. I am looking forward to a simpler day

I think self-reward and credit is something that has never really been easy for me. As a young child, self-criticism and comparison to others was embedded into my life quite early (and intensely). As of late, it is something that I have tried to learn to embrace. I think the modern name for it is ‘gratefulness’. But, I like to think of it as that feeling of excitement when you realize you actually love the person you have become.  For me, the things that light me up are: - Reading inspiring books and blog posts - Cooking nourishing meals - Exploring in winter, with a jacket, beanie and camera - Market coffees - Spas - Smiling at myself in the mirror - Glasson’s change rooms - Cold showers - Boxer underpants - Bean salads - Productive studying - Coffee - Sunday vibes - Gardening Self empowerment is allowing yourself to feel, be, embrace and enjoy. Saying no to people and things when you don’t want to - Whatever it may be. And enjoying yourself. Allow it.