Welcome to The Return - a place to learn deep rest, unravel old patterns, trust your intuition, and connect authentically with a community of women also treading the path home to themselves. Reflect on something new every Friday and be in the know about my upcoming offerings, including women's circles, workshop series and retreats.
Gratitude for the people and moments that shaped us
Published 29 days ago • 2 min read
Dear Reader,
So much of the self-development world can get stuck in a loop of "fixing" or unearthing past patterns or experiences, that our minds almost instinctively turn towards the negatives when we're in that headspace.
We focus on the things about ourselves that need to shift. We look back at our past—our childhood conditioning, the parenting we received, or the hurtful relationships we survived—and we focus on what we need to unlearn, overcome, and repair.
And yes, that is important, necessary work. Unpacking those heavy layers helps give us direction. It helps us tune into what we truly need right now, establish healthy boundaries, and offer ourselves understanding and compassion when we inevitably stumble.
But what about the positives? How often do we stop to reflect on the people, places, and experiences that shaped us into who and where we are today?
This week, my music algorithm started playing songs from my teenage years, bringing a flood of memories with it. I didn't necessarily have the best taste in music back then, but there are particular songs that I return to again and again, even decades later. Reflecting on them now, I realise those tracks were pivotal in shaping my early ideas of self-worth and what I should expect in relationships.
That playlist started a whole train of thought. It led me to think about the key people who encouraged me along the way—the ones who spoke truth and love into my life, who stood by me through difficult seasons, and who opened doors for me that I never would have walked through on my own. Looking back, there were a few distinct "sliding doors" moments that completely shaped where I am today in my work and life.
Fun fact: Graduating with Honours - a degree I didn't apply for! (a professor put my name down instead)
And you know what? That pattern hasn't stopped. When you look closely, there are still people out there—sometimes in the most unlikely of places—who are ready and willing to lift us up.
Growth isn't just about repairing what needs fixing, it's also celebrating and relishing in what has gone well.
So, I’m writing this today with a deep sense of gratitude. And I encourage you to reflect too:
What songs, places, or small moments helped shape your sense of self?
Who are the people who offered support, spoke belief into you, or opened a door when you needed it most?
Take a moment to remember those instances of love and support, no matter how small or distant they might feel. Allow yourself to truly savour the feeling of having been backed, held, and encouraged.
Welcome to The Return - a place to learn deep rest, unravel old patterns, trust your intuition, and connect authentically with a community of women also treading the path home to themselves. Reflect on something new every Friday and be in the know about my upcoming offerings, including women's circles, workshop series and retreats.