Better by Lit

5 Practical Things to Handle Low-Energy Days

junewen — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

We are not robots. We are not meant to feel happy and energetic all the time. And I know this because I’ve been there too. There are days when I woke up feeling tired and heavy for no reason… even before the day begins. Somehow, instead of listening to our body, we start blaming ourselves.

We feel tired, our body is clearly asking for rest, but instead of giving it what it needs, we push harder. We tell ourselves we’re not doing enough. That we should be better. More productive. More in control.

It doesn’t make sense, right?

I’ve been through this feeling more times than I can count. And most of the time, it happened when I was already burned out – I just didn’t realize it. I wasn’t kind to muself at all.

Looking at, I was both the one hurting myself and the one being hurt at the same time. Honestly, it took me years of trial and error to figure out a better way to cope with those kinds of days.

Now, let’s move to the main part – the small habits I go back to whenever feel off, tired, and unmotivated. These are my go-to solution:

These are not steps that magically make me feel “normal,”, positive, or fully productive again. They are simply ways to help me get through tough days… without letting those days completely take over.

1. Step Outside for a Few Minutes

One thing I’m pretty sure many of us do when we’re not feeling like ourselves is this: We isolate ourselves.

We stay in our room, close the curtains, avoid light, and just in that quiet. Somehow, we feel more comfortable in the dark, moody environment.

I used to do that all the time.

But here’s the truth I’ve learned: that feeling is not really “us.” It’s just our emotions pulling us deeper into that state. In psychology, I have read and heard of is often linking to something called “behavioral withdrawal,” where avoiding activity and isolating ourselves can actually reinforce negative mood over time. Research in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) also shows that staying inactive when we feel low tends to maintain – and sometimes even worsen – those feelings. The more we stay in that environment, the deeper we sink.

So the first thing we need is awareness.

Just pause and remind yourself:

Maybe I should do something different right now.

That simple thing you can do is – STEP OUTSIDE.

You don’t need to do anything big. Just spend 5-15 minutes outside. Walk a little or stand still and get some fresh air. →

But what if we don’t have backyard or outside space, that’s okay. Just go outside your house, your apartment, or even stand near a window with natural light.

Then, you should gently shift your attention outward.

Look at the tree, look at that sky. Notice small detail – colors, shapes, movements.

Ask yourself simple questions when you pick whatever within your sight:

This help redirect your focus away from your thoughts and back into the present moment.

2. Write Down What's on Your Mind

This next step is, for me, the most important one. After spending outside and getting a bit of fresh air, this is where things starts to shift inward, and I truly believe this can help you too.

But I won’t lie to you – this is not a “fun” step. In fact, it might be the hardest one. Because it takes courage to sit down and face what’ actually going on inside your mind, to look at it directly instead of avoiding it, and to finally make things clear instead of letting them stay messy and overwhelming.

First, you don’t need anything complicate. Just take at least five minutes, or longer if you feel like it, and start writing. Write down every worry you have, every thought, every feeling. Don’t try to organize it, don’t try to make it sound nice, and definitely don’t judge it. This is not about writing what you should or shouldn’t do – it’s about letting everything out exactly as it is. It could be messy, honest, and unfiltered.

Remember this: If you don't know where to start. Just write anything in your mind at that moment. You are not writing for anyone else. It doesn't have to be perfect, and it doesn't even have to make complete sense.

You are simply writing for yourself. Think of it like this – in that moment, you are becoming your own best friend, someone who listens quietly without judgement. And that alone is powerful, because it gives you inner voice a chance to finally speak.

You will notice something interesting happen when you keep writing. When you write until there’s nothing left in your mind, you start to feel lighter. Not completely okay, not suddenly “fixed,” but lighter. And when you go back and read what you wrote, you might notice things you didn’t expect – thoughts you’ve been avoiding, feelings you haven’t fully admitted, or small things that have been affecting you more than you realized. That’s where the clarity begins.

One thing I’ve learned is this: when you can identify the source of what’s bothering you, you’ve already solved a big part of the problem. And after you finish writing, take a moment to pause, breath, and be proud of yourself. Because you showed up for yourself. You did something, even when you didn’t feel like it. That matters more than you think. Even something small like this can quietly shift your entire day – you just don’t realized it until after you do it.

3. Clean Up Small Thing

After spending time writing down your thoughts, this next step might be optional – especially on days when even small actions feel heavy. But in my experience, it can boost your mood more than you expect.

And I know what you might be thinking – why cleaning? Why this, instead of doing something else?

Well, for me, it connects in a simple way. The previous step is like cleaning your mind. This one is about cleaning your environment. And on days when you’re feeling overwhelmed or not quite like yourself, when everything feels messy inside, having a clean space outside can quietly make a difference.

At first, I thought the same as you. I didn’t think it had anything do to with my emotions or how I feel. It seemed completely unrelated. But then I tried it… honestly, I was wrong.

I started with small things. Making my bed. Throw away snack bags I had left there for almost a week. Vacuuming the hair on the floor. Sweeping out the dirt.

Nothing big. Just small actions.

But when I finished, I noticed something.

I felt much better.

Not in a dramatic way. But enough to feel a shift. My room looked cleaner, lighter, and somehow… I felt lighter too. Especially on low-energy days, that small shift matters more than we realize. It gave me a sense of control, like I had done something good for myself – even when I didn’t feel like doing anything at all.

It’s kind of weird, right?

But at the same time, it also feel like a quiet message I’m sending to myself:

I take care of myself. It feels so good to be in a clean space.

And that feeling matters more than we think.

I even looked it up out of curiosity, and it turn out there’s real research behind this. A study from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – part of the Center on Everyday Lives of Families – found that people who describe their homes as a cluttered or messy tend to have higher level of cortisol, the stress hormone, compared to those who live in more organized spaces. On the other hand, cleaning and organizing can create a sense of control and reduce stress, which directly improved mood.

So I guess… It’s not just in my head after all.

Honestly, on low-energy days, sometimes you don’t need to fix everything. You just need one small action that reminds you’re taking care of yourself.

4. Let Yourself Slow Down (Lower Expectation)

Letting yourself slow down is something we often ignore – especially on rough days.

Think about it. What do you usually do when you’re not feeling good, when you have no energy or you’re just having a bad day?

If you’re like me, the answer is probably this: I push myself even harder.

But hey! Why do we do that?

I think it’s because we don’t want to admit that we’re tired. That we’re not okay. That we need a break. Somehow, slowing down feels like weakness, and we don’t want to accept that – especially on days when our energy is already low.

But here’s something I started to notice about myself.

The more I stresses I felt, the higher my expectations became. I would expect myself to finish everything, to stay productive, to “fix” my mood in one day – even when I clearly had no energy to do it.

And it turns out, this isn’t just me. Research in psychology shows that when people feel stresses or overwhelmed, they often try to compensate by increasing their expectations or pushing themselves harder. This is something linked to the perfectionistic tendencies and a need to regain control, even when their mental and emotional resources are already depleted.

Looking back… it doesn’t make sense at all. It’s kind of funny actually.

Because the truth is, when you’re already low on energy, high expectations don’t help you move forward – they pull you down faster.

A big reason we feel stresses on bad day is because thing don’t go the way we want. And most of the time, those things are actually out of our control.

We expect outcomes we can’t control. We want things to happen faster, easier, or exactly how we planned.

However, I believe everything has it owns timing. Its own process.

And the only thing we can really control is how we respond, how we adjust, and whether we allow ourselves to move with that process instead of fighting it.

When I really sat down and thought about this, I realized something about myself.

I already know these things. I just didn’t accept them.

And instead of going with the flow, I kept resisting, kept pushing, kept expecting more from myself – even on days when I clearly needed less.

It’s kind of stubborn, right?

But also… very human. Honestly, when I realized that, I couldn’t help but laugh a little at myself.

5. Choose to Do One Thing

Lastly, the thing that has really helped me on difficult days is this: choosing just one thing to do, especially the thing that you must do in a day.

Because the truth is, on days we feel down or mentally drained, we often fall into a strange pattern. We don’t feel like doing anything… but at the same time, we expect ourselves to do even more than usual. I’ve talked about this in the previous section – and I’ve definitely been there.

That’s why I think this is the moment to be a little more gentle with yourself.

Instead of trying to do everything, just focus on one task. One thing that truly needs your attention that day. An once you’ve done it, allow yourself to rest.

As when we’re not in a good state, our performance usually isn’t at its best anyway. So trying to do too much often doesn’t lead to good result – it just makes use feel more exhausted.

Doing one thing, or just a few small things, is already enough.

Maybe we can start looking at those bad days a little differently.

Instead of seeing them as “unproductive” days, maybe they can simply be days for rest. Days to slow down, reset, and take care of yourself. Why? Because you still have many other days ahead to keep going.

Taking a break for one day won’t ruin your progress. It won’t change your career. If anything, it might help you come back with more clarity and energy.

That makes a lot more sense.

6. What to Remember for the Days You Don't Feel Like Yourself

So these are the thigs I use as a small system to guide myself through low-energy days – the kind of days when I feel off, tired, or just not like myself.

I know that everyone experiences bad days differently. What works for me might not work the same way for you, and that’s completely okay. These are not rules or perfect solutions – just gentle suggestions that have helped me get through rough days without feeling completely lost in them.

If you take anything from this, I hope it’s this:

You don't have to be at your best every day

On those slower days, when you feel like you have no energy, no motivation, or you’re stuck in a low mood, it’s okay to slow down. It’s okay to do less. And it’s okay to take care of yourself in a softer, more understanding way.

Sometimes, getting through the day is already enough.

I also hope this reminds you to be a little more aware of yourself as I have always done it for me – your feelings, your limits, and what you truly need in those moments. Not in a harsh way, but in a kind and honest way.

Because learning how to take care yourself doesn’t always mean pushing harder. Sometimes, it means listening better.

At the end of the day, my intention in sharing this is simple.

I just want to open a small space where we can learn how to love ourselves in a little better – not perfectly, but wisely. And if even one small part of this helps you feel a bit lighter on your down-mood days, them I’m really grateful.

Thank you for being here, for reading and for taking this time for yourself.

I hope you have a gentle day – whatever kind of day you’re having.

The post 5 Practical Things to Handle Low-Energy Days appeared first on Better by Lit.

First-Time Dating Yourself Ideas

junewen — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 15:54:03 +0000

We feel tired and empty inside in some way when we get back from work; we don’t feel happy or have a good time hanging out with friends. Another way of saying this is that our feelings about all of our relationships haven’t brought us happiness or made us feel heard. Or, some of us may have gone through a heartfelt divorce or a painful breakup or experienced uneasy feeling; we gradually become disappointed, start to doubt, and mistrust others and ourselves. If you are looking for a reason and a solution to get away from such negative feelings out of your mind, I think you’ve come to the right place.

1. What is self-dating?

Self-dating is simple the act of spending time doing something you love, alone and on your own terms, without interference from anyone else.

2. Why do we need to date ourselves?

We all sometimes feel left out in our relationships, even when everything seems fine externally. Occasionally, you may be with a group of friends who are very supportive and get along well, hanging out for coffee or just having a girl’s day out, yet you might not really be into it

This can be a signal from your body and mind that they need attention from you. Perhaps there are unmet needs or aspects of your self-care that have been neglected for too long. Hence, when we take the time to meet our own needs, we will feel happy and whole, whether we are with others or by ourselves.

3. Overcome the barriers of thought

Spending time alone also means doing things alone without involving anyone else.

Here are some barriers that I think some of us might face in our thinking: the barrier of daily tasks, the social barrier, and the internal barrier.

The barrier of daily tasks

You might ask whether activities like grocery shopping alone, cleaning the house, or running errands count as spending time, right?

My answer is these are just tasks that need to be done daily, and they are tied to duties we must perform and cannot choose to ignore. Hence, dating yourself means choosing any activities you genuinely love and enjoy, based on your own interests and preferences. This is the easiest and simple definition of its that I understand and find most relatable.

The social barrier

Or, you might ask, ‘Will it look weird if I go somewhere in public alone? Will others look at me and say something about me behind my back?’ The answer is nobody will care about you; they are too busy with their own business. The way you feel is just your feelings telling you, and part of it is trying to protect you from doing things differently than you’re used to.

What I want you to know is that you deserve to have your own time and do things you love. You matter, and you are valued and worth more than anything else. Why should you care so much about what others thinks? The only person you should be taking care of is you and yourself only. So, why shouldn’t you?

The internal barrier

There’s one thing I want to mention: we often doubt trying something new when we have no experience with it and haven’t heard of anyone else doing it. Additionally, we humans are very good at procrastinating, which I personally do. We start asking ourselves how we should find time for this when we feel already buried alive by a heavy schedule filled with school, assignments, or family, work and children. I actually feel the same way as you do when thinking about spending time for myself. So, what would be a solution for these complaints? The answer is MAKING TIME :))

Obviously, a day has only 24 hours, and there is no exception; everyone needs to divine their time wisely among various activities to make their life more meaningful and their day more effective. And, you are no exception. Have you thought about how others manage to do it? If they can, so can you.

MAKING TIME for yourself is the only way.

4. Benefits of self-dating

The profound impact of going on a solo date was more than I could have ever explained. Let me share my story, and I’ll keep it brief. In my final year of university, I faced some of the toughest months of my life. Overwhelmed by stress and burnout, I was anxious about graduating, leaving a part-time job I dislike, which helps me survive during college years, and the pressure to find a better opportunity once I was done with school. I couldn’t ignore the mounting pressure; it forces me to confront the daunting choices about my future career. Trapped in a relentless cycle of negativity, I knew I needed a change.

So, I let go of all those burdens. I decided to break free from the routines that had brought me to this point. I chose to do something I’d never considered before—a real date with myself. This wasn’t just about doing something different; it was an opportunity to reconnect with myself on a deeper level.

Nowadays, taking time for ourselves often slips through the cracks. Indulging in spending time alone can be transformative. When you date yourself, you’re not just giving yourself a break; you’re embarking on a deeper journey of self-discovery and appreciation.

The outcome of my solo date was more profound than I cold have ever expressed.

Increase self-recognition and self-validation: First off, a solo date allows for self-recognition and self-validation. It’s about acknowledging your worth without needing others to confirm it. For example, on a quiet walk through the park or sitting alone at a random cafe, you learn to listen to your own thoughts and validate your feelings and desires. This act of self-validation is empowering. It teaches us to trust our instinct and make decisions that align more closely with our true self.
Willing to forgive and appreciate yourself: Spending time alone creates a space to forgive and appreciate yourself. It’s easy to be hard on ourselves, but stepping back helps us understand our journey, recognize our efforts, and accept out imperfections. This acceptance fosters a kinder internal dialogue, which is very crucial for mental health.
Relieve stress and anxiety: Alone time can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. It provides a break from the social expectations that often weigh us down or duties tied to our responsibility we have to maintain, allowing our minds and bodies to reset. This pause can sharpen our focus and discipline too, as managing how we spend our solo time can lead to better self-management skills.
Promote personal fulfillment and build resilience: There’s also the aspect of personal fulfillment that comes from pursuing activities that truly resonate with our soul. Whether it’s reading, painting, or simply sitting at the park, these moments contribute to a sense of complete well-being, both physically and mentally. Over time, this builds greater independence and resilience; we equip ourselves with patience and skills needed to handle stressful situations more effectively.
Nurture adaptability and creativity: When you’re by yourself, you’re master of your time and choices, encouraging you to think differently and embrace new experiences. This flexibility can lead to unexpected discoveries and creative inspirations.

No matter what activities you chose to spend time alone enriching your life. It builds a foundation of self-love and acceptance, enhances your capacity to cope with life’s challenges, and sparks a creativity that comes from within. So why now schedule a solo date? It might just be the best relationship you’ve ever been interested in.

5. Simple steps for planning a solo date

You might wonder what steps are necessary to plan the perfect date for yourself. The answer is quite straightforward; just follow these 4 steps, and feel free to skip any that seem unnecessary.

Plan your solo date with ease and joy

Choose a day and time: Mark your calendar. Choose a specific day and time that feel comfortable for you. Sometimes, trying something new can be daunting, so marking it on your calendar will help you commit and know precisely when to take action.
Pick activity(ies): Decide on activities you’ve always wanted to do alone but never had the time for, or perhaps something you’ve seen others do and wished to try yourself. It’s easy! Don’t judge yourself or think you’re spoiling yourself because you are busy all the time thinking about others, and now it’s time for yourself. This is a way to affirm that you matter and deserve to treat yourself the way you treat someone you love.
Make a reservation: To ensure your date goes smoothly, make a reservation a week in advance. This commitment will help you avoid any unforeseen interruptions during your date. For example, having a reservation means you won’t have to wait for your turn during busy times, allowing you to enjoy your moments without any disruption.
Dress up: choose an outfit that makes you feel good. Select clothes you’ve longed to wear but never had the chance to, or choose what feels most comfortable and feel the real you. Most importantly, cherish this time alone as you would with a loved one, and enjoy the time spent in your own company.

6. 11 Ideas for spending time alone

Coffee time: Spending time alone at the coffee shop is a great idea for your day. Order one of your favorite drinks and take a slow moment to enjoy each sip as it soothes your souls. Listen to the background music; it creates a beautiful backdrop for you to relax and explore your inner thoughts. It’s like having a date with an old friend you haven’t seen in a long time.
Restaurant night date: Making a trip to your favorite restaurant is also a nice idea that you should think of. I heard a phrase someone said that ‘Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate.’ Alan D. Wolfelt. Have you ever notices that most people often seem so happy or in a good mood when they are in restaurant? So, why don’t you have a great moment with yourself at your favorite restaurant once?
Movie time: In general, movies are a must-have activity on the dating list of couple. So, I think we can go for a movie after work or sometime in a day to go for a movie with yourself. I used to go to the movie theater quite often when I was sad or had personal issues by myself, and it brings a sense of acceptance and really enjoyments, which I couldn’t have when I went with another. I don’t know how to describe how good it feels, but I can guarantee you that you will feel something inside you moving and say thank you for being willing to spend time for them.
Write thank you note send to yourself: If you quite concerned about the expense you have to spend on your solo date, writing a thank-you note to yourself would be a perfect choice for you. It’s very simple, you just need a paper and a pen or pencil writing for whatever you want to talk to yourself, or just something simple like a conversation with yourself about what you haven’t said to yourself for a long time and feel quite awkward saying it out loud. Your mind and your thought will absolutely appreciate you a lot of being physically talk out loud and present on the paper, you allow it to show up and this shows like an acceptable action that you show to yourself without anyone knowing of and none judging from others or feel embarrass or shy what we are saying and thinking about ourself.
Ride a bicycle: Making the body move is also seen as a way to relieve the stress weight on your shoulder because all of the tiredness is going to wash away by our movement. Cycling is seen as a way to make you feel better, recommended by experts. You might think, why is that? and it makes no sense to you. Let’s think, do you feel stresses or think about unfinished tasks that need to be done when you cycling? I think you would probably not be able to do 2 different jobs at a time. All of your focus at the moment you ride a bike is watching the road and adjusting your wheel and controlling the speed you put on each pedal to follow the road you are on. Additionally, you hardly ignore the beautiful scene along the road when you cycling, and you also feel the gentle breeze comes right to your face and scene on the way you are riding. I think it would be really fun, and you will feel it when you give it a try.
Go to the beach (or other outside activities): Going to the beach would be an ideal option if you are live close to it. Getting close to nature would never be a false way to approach closer to your inner self, because there is only nature with you, free from external interruptions and adjustments. The shooting sounds of the ocean, combined with physical activities like walking, offer both relaxation and rejuvenation. Additionally, the fresh air and sunlight can lift your spirits, while the wide ocean view inspires deep thoughts and creativity.
Enjoy a solo picnic: Organizing a solo picnic can be delightful way to enjoy some quality time with yourself. Grab a blanket, pack your favorite snacks, and find a cozy corner in a nearby park or by a lake. It’s the perfect little escape to enjoy some alone time. Lay back and listen to the birds, dive into a good book, or just watch the clouds roll by. It’s all about giving yourself that sweet break to recharge. It’s also a splendid opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with your own thoughts and senses, nurturing your spirit in the process.
Try a pottery class: Have you ever thought about getting your hands a little dirty and creating something beautiful? A pottery class is a fantastic way to do just that! It’s not just about molding clay; it’s about expressing yourself through your art creation and maybe even discovering a road to your hidden self longed for a long time. It’s fun, hand-on way to spend some time learning new skill and maybe make a new friends along the way.
Crochet: Crocheting is another handmade activities you should consider. Picking up a crochet hook and yarn in your hands, it is a simple joy that anyone can start. Whether you’re creating a cozy scarf, a cute amigurumi (little cute animal), or a chic blanket, each stich helps you stich away the stress of the day. The rhythmic motions of crocheting and creating things you desire are almost mediative. Plus, you end up with functional pieces for your home or as gifts. So, grab some yarn and give it a try- it’s a creative and calming activities that might just hook you.
Gardening: Gardening is more than just an activities of growing something and harvest it or enjoy what it brings; it a way to connect with nature right in your own backyard. No matte what seed you are about to plan, each one of those you care is incredibly rewarding. It’s a perfect and affordable way to enjoy the outdoors, improve your home environment and even enhance your meals with home-grown ingredients!
Cook for yourself: Cooking your favorite meal is an easy way to enjoy some alone time. Whether you’re making a quick meal or trying something new, cooking is all about taking care of yourself. You can take your time, enjoy the smells and tastes, and relax while you cook. So, all you need to do is set up a nice spot just for you, play some music you love, and cook something special for yourself. It’s a nourishing way to cherish your own company and enjoy every bite at your own pace.

Up to this point, I hope the idea of starting to date yourself seen a little less daunting. It’s transformative journey that reconnects you with your inner self and uncovers the joys of solitude. Whatever activities you choose, remember that a nourishing time a aloneness is precious— it’s your chance to truly listen to your thoughts and cherish your own company, just as you with a close friend. Are you ready to embark on this journey of self-discovery and personal growth? Thank you for joining me up to this point. I hope you find these insights useful and that they inspire you to explore more about yourself. I’m eager to hear about your experiences—please share your stories in the comments down below.

Now, Let’s start this beautiful journey together. Love!

The post First-Time Dating Yourself Ideas appeared first on Better by Lit.

In The Stillness

junewen — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 18:17:52 +0000

I have felt a strange longing for writing lately.

It must have been a long time since I wrote the last blog. It is quite hard for me to settle down in one place for a long time, especially after more than 5 years since the day I moved out and lived far away from my family. Like many, I’m just a child from a small town who move to a big city, hoping to pursue a dream job and a better life after completing my education. I’ve moved 6 times in just two and a half years, and the nostalgic for everything I once had standing in front of my previous home is fading. I am grateful for everything in my life, even the smallest things. Whenever I move, I spend a few minutes looking through every corner of my current place, like a film reel of memories flashing before my eyes from the day I moved in until the last.

I try to imprint my feelings onto every place I’ve stayed, as a way of showing respect and gratitude for the the shelter and nurture I received. Although this is my usual habit, I now feel that the more I move, the less attached I become to each place. I am being swept up by the fast face of technology and daily to-do lists. Moving no longer feels like a challenge or a difficult decision. I’ve become more comfortable with change, welcoming it in whatever form it arrives, which can sometimes be beneficial and sometimes not. Over time, my attachment to places has normalized, which sometimes makes me sad because I fear losing my feelings and becoming indifferent to the life I am living. The simple reason behind this is that I don’t want to lose myself and always strive to appreciate and give thanks for everything that happens to me.

I am naturally curious, which leads me to observe everything quite carefully. I’ve noticed how quickly people can change their personalities and how they communicate with others, not in a good way, which often doesn’t like the person I once know. I’ve questioned this repeatedly, but no one can give me answer and I think might not their concern. Fortunately, I accidentally heard the answer through a psychology show on the radio. They explained that people are often unconsciously influenced by their environments, which naturally affects their personalities. This made sense to me, and since then, I’ve reminded myself to maintain my core values and true self, even as I adapt to new environments.

Life is harsh, and it doesn’t always unfold as we wish. Especially in the modern age, people rush to keep up with social expectations, and this hurried lifestyle inadvertently impacts our lives. I am not different, not taking enough tine to reflect on the places I’ve been and appreciate what I’ve gained. I worried too much about my distant future, trying to escape the harsh realities before me. I’ve wondered if I set my expectations too high, if I was foolish to break norms, or if I was too stubborn about my abilities and dreams. I have never felt as stresses as I do now. It’s like a deep cold that cuts through my body, numbing me. I must breath slowly to avoid pain. I’ve learned that ignoring problems doesn’t make them disappear; they just wait to resurface. When I fail to meet my plans and return to self-criticism, it traps me in a negative cycle that drains all my positive emotions. I feel very exhausted.

Making the significant decision to move to a larger city was daunting because I was unsure of what to do in this strange place. It wasn’t just me moving; others were involved, doubling the effort. I met someone new who didn’t think highly of me, not because of anything I had done but because of their perceptions of my situation, which I’d rather not mention. I’ve experienced a series of uncomfortable emotions and have yet to find anything in this new environment that makes me proud. It feels like a heavy weight on my shoulders, overshadowing all my feelings. I know I must endure and navigate through these challenges, but the thought of it makes my heart ache. The more I try to comfort myself that it will be okay, the deeper the pain feels.

This beginning like this is not like every time I was experienced; it is the most significant time of building and forming my career path for the rest of my life. Of course, it sounds harsh and like such a heavy burden; currently I still feel like I’m on the verge between falling and grounding; everyone has to get through this one before getting a good standing or a good career path after that. So, I think I should be at the moment and do everything I could to fill in the only blank I need to complete all myself. It just likes little sprouts; they need time to take all the nutrients before they are ready to start a new branch and grow heavily, and the growth process of a person also goes through the same; just look at the very same process.

It’s so strange that when I look back at my past, I tend to tell others about those hard times I had been through with a positive and happy feeling; it feels like I did such a great thing or some kind of achievement. I think maybe you feel the same way as I do. Over a month since I moved to a new place, my life was like upside down and was in the chaos; I tried to wear a perfect mask on and pretend I was okay, but actually I wasn’t. I also tried to convince myself it would be just right and nothing I had to worry about; my real emotions were suppressed for so long, which led to me easily getting upset even over the smallest thing.

New year, new place, and new people. I’m still the same person but with a different attitude. I promise myself that I will be more proactive, responsible. Ultimately, everyone makes their own choices, and no one can control or limit other’s abilities or the choices they make. This applies to me as well. I refuse to limit myself; I want to explore freely and live the independent life I’ve dreamed of since I was a little girl in middle school. No matter what happens, remember that you always have choices. The only limits are those of your abilities and your worth.

In some weird way, despite the panic and exhaustion, I also feel grateful and appreciative of the things that have happened to me. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to move, for having real weekends, and for the time to challenges myself.

Get out there, learn as much as you can, step out of your comfort zone, and strengthen your worth. These actions might lead you to the place you want to be. Do what you need to do, trust the process, and everything will be just fine. Ready?

“Everything you’ve ever wanted is sitting on the other side of fear” George Addair

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Ready For A Fresh Start

junewen — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 19:40:51 +0000

On July 3rd, I had the most awkward trip I have ever taken. the day before, I was so excited about the small trip I was going to take with my grandma and aunties in the Northeast area. I booked a roundtrip ticket and planned to get there before sundown.

I woke up early to be at the airport before the final call at 5 a.m. I was happy and excited about the flight, smiling and telling myself that I would be at my grandma’s house around 2:20 in the afternoon. That seemed like the perfect time to rest and enjoy the rest of the day, arriving in the time to feel good and enjoy the cozy ambiance right before sundown. However, things didn’t turn our as planned. My seat on both planes was at the very back of the aircraft.

I thought I would be fine without wearing a mask, given my seat location, but combined with the long wait on the plane after landing for about 15 minutes, it wasn’t ideal. All I could think about was how much I wanted to throw up. There were many unpleasant smells around me, the talking noise from everyone around, babies crying, smell of a snack bag intentionally left next to me, and the air coming from the top of the plane. It was the scariest thing ever. I had to hold my breath and tell myself over and over again to squeeze my nose as hard as possible t avoid doing anything embarrassing. Finally, I arrived peacefully and safely. After leaving the airport and waiting for pickup, the story didn’t end there. I was starving since I hadn’t eaten anything since leaving home. My aunties-in-law would pick me up when I landed. Ironically, she needed to go somewhere before heading home, so I had to go with her because I had no choice. On the way, she took the wrong exist twice, which could last forever. Honestly, my patience reached its limit. When I made it home, I ran right into the kitchen ad fast as I could. I seems like people easily get cranky when they are hungry. By that time, I was so exhausted that I hardly feel good, and I struggled to have a small chat with my grandma, my mind wandered while my body was there. The headache and tiredness only subsided after a long 3-4 hour nap once I had eaten. I began to feel like myself and regained my excitement.

The day of the vacation officially started with nice weather, sunshine, and lines of trees on the way to the beach. Everything felt different from where I live. It was a perfect beach day. We spent 4 hours lying on the sand, catching waves, building sandcastles, soaking up the sun, and taking a small nap right on the beach. There was nothing more perfect than that. Spending 4 days and 3 nights there exceeded my expectations. We enjoyed the beach during the day and night at the dock, it was like a dream. The whole picture of the new world barely showed up in front of my eyes, and I haven’t given any thought to what I could

Early Peaceful Morning By The Sea

possibly see in my future. It gave me more reason to push myself harder for a quality life in the future.

Coming from a small town in a small country, having the chance to see stunning and magnificent things in a developed country felt like a magical moment. Making the decision to start life in a new country was the most valuable things I ever considered. Every decision holds a big impact on one’s life. If I hadn’t start life in a new country, I wouldn’t have had the chance to see and experience beautiful things or expand my thinking and vision about life. I wouldn’t have even dreamed of being in such a place or just visiting if i had stayed where I was born.

There is so much abundance in the place I’m going to, in every aspect. A person can make their dreams come true with education and preparation. Access to food and knowledge is easier compared to where I was, where even getting enough meals for a month was a difficult task, and costs often exceeded monthly income. Not to mention the cramped living space share for every function-bathing, washing, restroom and sleeping. Spending few years in such living space taught me the value of decision-making, personal space, and freedom. This trip made me realize that it is a gift of hope, wishful thinking, and believing that there is something better than where I grew up. Finally, here I am, not officially, but partly. The desire to learn and practice repeatedly nurtures me to grow stronger after every small trip.

At this moment, I’m going to start a new journey, feeling scared and uncertain about whether I can make it. There’s a lot of internal conflict, comparing myself to others. Looking up makes me feel less confident, while looking down make me feel ahead of others; I understand that’s not the appropriate way to think about it. I hesitate and underestimate myself sometimes, struggling to get rid of these feelings. But then, I reconsider my feelings, I realize they are just emotions and not a true reflection of my value, knowledge, or abilities. Emotions are temporary and don’t define my potential. It’s like the chemical reactions in our bodies trying to protect us from perceived dangers, they do not have any right to control us.

This trip has been a reminder that life is full of opportunities if we are willing to accept and strive for whatever we feels right for us. Making decisions and striving for better things are essential. I’ve always tried to live actively, not just sitting there and wanting things but working for it, going with the flow, and finishing what needs to be done.

As the season change, so do we. Just like a person who struggles to move from a small village to the outside world, there are many things to learn and adapt to. It can be a fearful and vague process, but eventually, we must step out with all abilities we own, much like a butterfly shedding its cocoon. The process is painful and challenging, but it leads to growth, freedom, and happy life. I learn to see life like that little butterfly, eagerly awaiting the joys and challenges ahead, knowing that the bad day will pass and good day will come eventually.

Write for days with endless thought.

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Excited To Continue This Chapter

junewen — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 12:29:36 +0000

On the longest day of the year, I felt differently about than other years back then. I was so excited about who remember my day, what gifts I would receive, what surprise I would have, and many more. This was not the same in this year, the reason my be that I find the good reason for letting me feel special about my day in another way. Accidentally knowing my birthday has another meaning – the longest day in a year and also special enough to have its own name. It is called “summer solstice,” and I start borrowing it as a way to feel special about myself. Not so often would have special on the day they were born, it happens to me.

Time is passing by like a stream at a river, continuing to flow. Asking to take advantage of this annual milestone, I have a chance having moment to pause, reflect, and embrace the whirling of emotions and thoughts that have carried on for years.

At this time last year, I remember I was too busy to care about anything else, there were 2 weeks late for works and I was trying to keep up with work space in the new environment. I barely have any energy left to think about birthday stuff. Honestly, I have never felt happy or enjoy about anything since then, holding my mind with tons of thinking about responsibilities I need to fulfill, what I will be like in the next few years, and whether it will turn out the way I want it. Overwhelming mind with tons of worry thinking, then start laughing and dragging back to the present on and off.

Growing up in a village, worked hard all day under blazing sun to make a living brought me to a real world since I started taking care of everything in the age of 5. That was a really tough time, cake, candle, blessing from someone-it never cease to exist. I get used to it when it comes to birthday. However, I treasure everything even the smallest one happen to me, I feel happy whenever someone does to me which makes me smile all day and even day after. I never blame for things, for my parent worked all day in a fields, for never be pick up at school, for look like as a big sister in the house. One of the precious things I learn from those old days is accept everything cause I was too little to have my own choice.

Having no choice nurturing me stronger than ever, I get used to things really quick, accept every consequence I make. I know deeply inside my mind I have to be the one create and have my own choice when I fully mature in my thinking and my ability. There is no longer being in the time I was a little, choice is never something that I own.

At the same time, I have never thanked enough to the one who always walks alongside me, always be there, keep positive, find solution when I get stuck, myself; is the best one I couldn’t ask more. Be the one will always be there to walk with me through ups and downs, good and bad, and everything that a person could express with only themselves. Thankful to all people I had met, met, and will meet for bringing me something into my life.

I hope you will continue the journey. Keep walking, going, passionate, brave, scared, but never forget to keep on the right track. I am grateful to go this far with you and so excited about the journey we will make together.

Here’s to the past has shaped me, the present that grounds me, and the future that beckons will be revealed. Happy birthday to me!

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To Summer Memories

junewen — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 19:26:56 +0000

I was entering the first day of the summer with light rain outside the window, where I was always loved. Summer might be the most excited season for everyone, especially for kids because they don’t need to go to school. Summer lies between love and hate for parents; time they need to set up their work schedule for a small vacation go somewhere and spend time with kid after the cold season has passed.

However, seasonal changes always make people feel tired of the weather, which is not stable one day cold and another day hot, making people easy to get sick at the same time. The process of change always brings an unpleasant with satisfying at once; it ceases to get noticed when thinking about stepping into the next season of the year. In my opinion, it brings such a noise and excitement, I never give changing season any attention or give them any meaning, because basically it has no name. For me, no name doesn’t mean nothing; it always carries a big meaning for me in some sense. It is time to prepare to get ready to look back and see whether we are on the right track of our goal had been set in a year, whether we are still in control or let the time of a day with 24 hours wash us away, whether we are ready, learn, and practice hard enough preparing the glorious achievement at the end of the year. Sometimes, I carelessly forget that I just have the same amount of time as everyone else, so I waste that valuable time in a day doing unnecessary things and then keep complaining about being unable to do this or that within a short time. Those regularly brother me years earlier.

Observing the seasonal changes has helped me understand a significant lesson: Don’t ever underestimate or overlook anything; even if the thing doesn’t have a name for it, it still brings something that we humans are arrogant and lazy to see.

Summer often goes with such a beautiful scene and relaxing feeling; lying down on the beautiful beach with a cup of coconut water, time for travel, road trip, BBQ party, or just a small garden back of the house full of flowers and herbs.

This year’s summer is unlike any other to me, surrounded by ordinary things that surprise me with a very different feeling that I normally do not experience. The street across wears beautiful green clothes made from huge trees lined up, a cozy look right in the first month of summer. I get up by alarm made by nature, hearing bird chirping, the sound of leaves rubbing against each other from the orphan wind (which we usually call in my home country), and sunlight shining through windows. Those things every day make me feel how grateful I am to feel and see how nature can be beautiful like that. Perhaps changing seasons means something special to me, reminding me of my memories that I forgot. Might the reason be spending to much time on screen, checking email, mindlessly look on social media post has literally dulled our senses to the profound beauty and raw emotions of the real world?

I realize that no matter how many tools there are on this day to help people entertain or spend time on screen to relax, nothing can compare to the real things out there. I can see, feel, and touch, but I cannot take it and own it for myself. Have you ever notice that the smell of the wind in the air is totally different in every month? And, I think I cannot feel and embrace it when paying attention to the virtual world.

I am ready to step into the next season, with so much fun and a lot of things need to be done. Don’t forget to word hard and also relax hard, because our body need to maintain energy for keep doing and performing the good work.

Summer is officially coming.

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Benefits of Waking Up Early

junewen — Mon, 20 May 2024 13:48:25 +0000

Have you ever imagined what it feels like to start your day far ahead of anyone else? Being an early birth has many benefits that can improve your life in ways you never expect. That’s the reason why many said that waking up is an inspiring journey to success.

The list of benefits that you would earn from getting up early:

1. Having More Time for Yourself

Imagine waking up with a quiet and peaceful morning to plan your day and do the things you love. It obviously brings you a sense of relaxation when having time alone and nobody could take it from you; at that moment you be able to do things you love without getting disturb from something else. You would feel grateful and happy because you have a feeling of you take a good care of yourself, hence you will also ready to spread that good and positive feeling to other. It is also leading to a more productive performance at work and happy about your personal life.

2. Self-Control or Balance Between Work and Life

Giving you more personal time before sharing your time on doing a responsible daily job or task, to plan up for whole day to do the things that matter most to you. You can become responsible for your own schedule and routines and have the power to shape your day in a way that works best for you. When you have time for yourself and fulfill what you want to do in a day, you will obviously have a sense of control thing in your life and the feeling of others social responsibilities steels your time is no longer exist. Additionally, you will feel more happy and grateful for whatever you are doing, which in turns having balance between work and life.

3. Professional in Time Management

Waking up early gives a person plenty of time ahead of everyone, because most of school, the workplace, stores still close in the early hours. Which means you have 2-3 hours before 7am in the morning, which allows you to plan your day more effectively, such as having time for yourself and allocating time for important tasks and activities. As a result, this proactive approach allows you to have a more organized and structured day. You can also have time to prioritize you most important to help you keep track of and complete those tasks efficiently and on time. The habit of waking up provides you with a greater time management skill that can lead to more productivity and a more balanced life.

4. Creating a Good Sleep Habit

Early in the morning is a good time for establishing a good sleep habit, because consistency rising up early helps regulate your sleep schedule, helping to more consistent and restful sleep. This routine aligns with your body’s internal clock for the best sleep quality, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up at the same time everyday. Keeping this habit overtime has a greater help in reducing chances of insomnia and other sleep-related issues. Most people with habit of waking up early often experience deeper, more restorative sleep, which contributes to better overall internal and external well-being.

5. Improving Concentration and Mental Clarity

Often in the early hours are typically the quietest part of the day, you are free from the usual distraction and annoyed like other dramas, breaks news from social media or other channels that eat up your energy and disrupt your concentration. Early in a day provides the perfect environment for focused work, planning, and reflection. As many successful individuals value their time on uninterrupted early time to work which attributes to accomplishment. With fewer external stimuli, early risers engage in deep thinking and creative problem-solving, creating much more advantage and efficiency.

6. Fostering Physical Health

People who have the habit of waking up early tend to have plenty of time spent on their personal activities, and that’s also the most reasonable time to practice a healthy lifestyle and foster various healthy habits. In the early hours, we often be in a good mood and get the most motivation; this is a perfect time to incorporate exercise into our daily routine, such as doing yoga, meditation, running, or just 15-minutes workout. Which takes just a very small part of the day, but helps to boost our metabolism, improve mood, and increase energy levels for the rest of the day. According to experts, engaging in physical activity in the morning also promotes the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones, which can reduce our stress and anxiety through all day.

7. Growing a Positive Mindset

Most of the business activities start late in the morning; we hardly be bothered by outside noise like cars passing by or even tons of work needing to be finished. Therefore, waking up early can have a profound impact on your mental health and emotional well-being. The peaceful morning hours provide an opportunity for self-reflection, meditation, or journaling; all those activities are time to take care of your inner self and make you feel happy about the day ahead. This can help you start your day with a sense of calm and purpose. Like many articles and experts define, early risers often report feeling more optimistic and motivated throughout the day. This positive outlook can enhance your interaction with others, improve your resilience to stress, and contribute to a greater sense of overall happiness.

8. Developing Personal and Professional Relationships

Early hours provide you more time in your day for your meaningful interactions with family members, whether there would be a busy day. You get closer to to others with more strong connections and more fulfillment as you dedicate tine to your loved ones. actively listening to them, and offer support for them also. In turn, it provides you with a sense of responsibility and control over your life, brings a positive attitude before heading to work, provides the best result, and performs well at the work place. Additionally, you have time to arrive at work early can demonstrate dedication and reliability, potentially leading to greater respect and opportunities for career advancement.

9. Increasing Time Management Skills

As having plenty of time before heading to work, you have time for yourself to plan and allocate time for important tasks and activities. This proactive approach allows us for more organized and clear instruction, reducing last-minute rushing and stress. This habit of scheduling time in the early morning brings you greater productivity and a more balanced life.

10. Increasing Originality and Creativity

The quiet morning hours offer a peaceful environment that is conducive to creative thinking and brainstorming. As many artists, writers, and innovators find that their best ideas come to them in the early morning when their minds are fresh and free from the clutter of the day. By utilizing time in the morning to creative activities, you can unlock your most innovative thoughts and ideas, which also helps to greater creativity and problem-solving abilities.

11. Increasing Self-Control

The commitment to rise early everyday regardless of external circumstances, strengthens your ability to stick to routines and habits. It establishes a self-discipline to your skill, extends to other areas of you life, making it easier to maintain healthy habits, achieve personal goals, and overcome challenges. These sense of accomplishment that comes from consistently waking up early also boost your confidence and motivation, further reinforcing your self-discipline.

12. Creating a Sense of Accomplishment

Starting your day early allows you to accomplish more in the first few hours than many people do all day. This sense of achievement can spread a positive tone for the rest of the day, boosting your attitude and productivity. You have a feeling of satisfaction and motivation by completing tasks early in the day; this action will trigger you to continue being productive as you keep gaining positive feeling. This early sense of accomplishment can also reduce stress and anxiety, as you feel in control of your time and responsibilities.

13. Fostering a Healthier Lifestyle

Chances you be more likely to engage in healthy habit such as eating a nutrition breakfast, exercising regularly, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. If you are maintaining wake up early in the morning regularly, which contributes to better physical and mental healthy, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving over well-being. Additionally, by making the most of the morning hours, you can establish a strong foundation a healthy and fulfilling life.

A truth untold about waking up early in the morning and can be life-changing for those who practice and incorporate it into their daily routine. If you still hesitate to make this habit part of your life, we believe that the benefits mentioned above will provide the right motivation to help you commit to it. Since everyone is given the same of time each day- no more, no less- it’s important to use that time efficiently and set a positive foundation for other beneficial practices that contribute to your overall health and wellness.

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6 Things You Should Avoid While Wake Up Early

junewen — Fri, 17 May 2024 14:50:05 +0000

Although you have followed all the rules to form the habit of waking up early, you still need to consider a few things before bedtime in order to starting your day on the right foot without making common mistakes. We know that is seem too many techniques that could make you a bit frustrated for the first time.

For this reason, we encourage you to eliminate a few things in 6 of those:

Hit snooze
Eat too late
Energy drinks or alcohol, and excessive exercise in the late afternoon
Take a long nap during the daylight
Upbeat music and silent phones
Daylight in the room

Hit snooze: Try not to avoid hitting snooze in the morning, as it can disrupt your sleep cycle and make it harder to fully wake up. It is really hard to do but try to help yourself and you will gain much more benefits from it.

Eat too late: Eat late or having heavy meals close to bedtime for instance sugar, caffein, or fat as this can interfere with your sleep schedule. Try to finish your last meal at least 3 hours before bedtime. Stick to light snacks and limit your fluid intake before bed.

Energy drink or alcohol, and excessive exercise in the late afternoon: Reduce consuming energy drinks or engaging in intense physical activity too close to bedtime, as this can trigger wakeness hormone and make it harder for you to fall asleep and feel fatigued in the morning. If you do, you can limit your alcohol intake and have your last drink several hours before bedtime.

Take a long nap during the daylight: As it can mess up with your sleep-wake cycle and make it harder for you to fall asleep at night.

Upbeat music and silent phones: Highly unrecommend for those who have trouble at sleep by listening to upbeat music late at night, it can cause to make you more energy and hard to relax before bedtime. Keeping your phone away as far as possible at least an hour before sleep cause the signal emitted from the phone is not good for your brain and the screen light might trigger your wakeness neuron. Consider investing a sound machine or earplugs to block out any external noise.

Day light in the room: Create a dark and relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom to help you fall asleep faster.

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Tips Help Wake Up Instantly In Early Morning

junewen — Wed, 15 May 2024 01:29:35 +0000

Do you still struggle to wake up in the early morning, even after a full night’s sleep? These tips, tricks, and part of sleep toolkit, can help you feel more alert and refresh in the early morning:

Increase intensity of light
Increase temperature in your room
Leave the blinds open
Check out with Sleep Toolkit from HubermanLab

Lights that could be substitute tool to natural sunlight when you have a cloudy or bad weather cannot get outside. You would be wise to turn on artificial lights, in particular overhead lights as we suggested before. Also, you could put lights on a timer to go on early 15 minutes in the day before you wake up. Click right here which directly leads you to the overhead lights products.

When the temperature room is too low which makes you couldn’t get up instantly, you should make room temperature go a little higher, this will trigger the wakeup state. If you really technical and measure how much temperature in your room, you can download a free app on your phone device, like thermometer room temperature, that will allow you to measure in both temperature and humidity as well. We will put the link below for you to check it out. We attach the link for light meter to Apple and Android.

We just mentioned sleep toolkit, there is a free guiding video name “The Optimal Morning Routine” in which they make animation combined filming video to go over important tips you need to consider. The video summarize content based on the research of Andrew Huberman on YouTube (long for nearly 2 hours). It provides a step-by-step guide to help you start you day right away. You will see how easy these techniques are much more effective than doing by yourself without confusing what you are going to do first. We believe that you will grasp all things mentioned and get motivated to take into practice. Check it out:

Another extra source that we found very useful for you in case you need additional technique. The website is contained extremely reliable knowledge, which originally from Andrew Huberman, Ph.D. as we’re mentioned before.

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