It’s Friday night when I write this, when I’m meant to be headed up North. Instead, I’ve opted for an early morning trip tomorrow. No boyfriend. No pup. So it’s just me with some time to write about the promised topics I mentioned after the inspiring session I attended last week! I also went to Norwich for a long weekend, but maybe I’ll discuss that another time…
For a long time now, my self-awareness has always led back to one thing: feeling quite lost. I’m sure I’m not alone as many of us try to navigate this ironically disconnected-connected world of technology, where bad news seems to be everywhere along with job uncertainty (sad but true, thanks ChatGPT).
Of course I don’t mean to be the bearer of bad news, just a realistic observer trying to find answers.
I’ve been trying to write a novel for 2 years now, where the candle has dimmed, glowed and dimmed again with getting words on the page.
For months, I’ve been neglecting my mental health and time for things I enjoy besides reading (ie novel writing, blogging, YouTube videos, Substack, seeking ways of passive income) before being struck with a sharp bout of sickness – something I suspect comes down to stress and illness. I’m ‘tickety-boo’ for now, but still sad. Yes, it saddens me to admit it but it’s true.
I feel very lonely, whereas before I used to be okay in my own company, instead feeling content at being alone.
There’s a difference between wanting to be alone vs feeling lonely.
This time, especially as we approach Christmas and the New Year, I’ve been writing and planning things to make sure I don’t feel as low again in 2024 – and that starts with my job.
Even thinking about change makes me feel more hopeful.
Thinking of making some changes?
When did you last check in with yourself? Here are some prompts to get started:
- Think back to pre-Covid: when were you last happy?
- Reflect on your younger years: think of a period (or moment) in which you were content with life. Could you do something to replicate that now?
- What do you enjoy that involves only you?
- Are you happy now?
Books
What I’m currently reading: Hush by Kate Maxwell
Just finished: Good Material by Dolly Alderton ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
️P.S. I post bookish updates on my Instagram!
xx
Sorry to hear you’re feel isolated and down lately Lizzie, but you should be proud of yourself for admitting that as that’s more than many people do!
We live in a time where we are more but also less connected than ever, which isn’t easy! I hope 2024 brings stronger and more nourishing connections into your life!
I find that in the name of protecting my boundaries I often end up isolating myself and craving more connection. #introvertproblems lol! Hard to get that balance sometimes.
For me it’s not about having hundreds of friends and always being busy, it’s about having a handful of people I can talk to and be myself with and also having people I can laugh with!
I want to build more connections in 2024 too, particularly with people who also love writing - so feel free to drop me a message whenever, I would love to hear all about your novel (I have been working on one for years too).