Time Takes Time

Instant gratification. We all want it, me included. We crave the satisfaction of seeing our efforts pay off immediately. The uncertainty of whether the goal is worth the time, or even achievable, can be nerve-wracking. However, dwelling on these anxieties only leads me to paralysis. I have to remember that progress takes time. It took […]

It’s Not Your Fault

There are so many experiences in my life that I can blame for holding me back. Like many people, I have been taken advantage of, dismissed, and treated unfairly. Those times have discouraged me and gave me excuses to stall my progress. But here’s the thing: dwelling on blame won’t get me anywhere. I can […]

TGIF

A lot of people like Fridays. For many, it’s the end of the work week which means there might  be some leisure time and/or rest coming. If that’s what it’s like for you; if Friday makes you feel at ease or excited, use that energy on other days. If going out to dinner or relaxing […]

Plant a Seed

Whenever I set a new goal, I need to start by reminding myself: this will take time.  Sometimes, I imagine a long-term goal like a tiny seed, full of potential but needing care and time to flourish. Just like a seed, my goal starts small, but holds the promise of something great, something that will […]

What’s Your Problem

If you came to me with a problem a few years ago, my initial response would likely have been to immediately find a way to take that problem from you and try to fix it. I couldn’t manage the image of you being in pain and I would volunteer to endure the pain for you […]

I Can’t Get No Satisfaction

Long-term goals can feel overwhelming. The finish line seems so far away that it can drain my motivation.  Without a sense of accomplishment along the way, it’s hard to stay satisfied and keep pushing forward. That’s why I find it important to generate satisfaction. It all boils down to noticing and celebrating small victories.  Whether […]

Pick Your Pain

Life is challenging. Deep inside, I always secretly wished for a point where I could just coast after enough hard work. The plan was to put in enough effort that I’d live life work-free. But that’s not how life works. The shower I took yesterday won’t suffice for today. Brushing my teeth diligently once doesn’t […]

It’s All in Your Head

“He said it’s all in your head, I said ‘so’s everything’…” Fiona Apple (song: Paper Bag) Our thoughts are the driving force behind everything we do. Even seemingly physical actions, like typing these words, originate from mental processes. The mind is incredibly powerful, and our thoughts can have a profound impact, both positive and negative. […]

Be Yourself

“Be yourself is all that you can do” – Audioslave (Song: Be Yourself) We’ve been told to be ourselves throughout our lives, but we’ve also been asked to conform to society, be adaptable to our office culture, be quiet in some spaces, and speak up in others. This constant push-and-pull between self-expression and societal expectations […]

All is Full of Love

“You’ll be given love. You’ll be taken care of. You’ll be given love. You have to trust it. Maybe not from the sources you have poured yours. Maybe not from the directions you are staring at. Twist your head around. It’s all around you. All is full of love. All around you.” Bjork (song: All Is Full of Love) The […]