I made a vow to myself 2 years ago that I would share more thoughtful recaps of life vs. mindless posting. Here’s what happened as I made space for myself…

– I experienced more simple, direct, uncluttered moments of life

– I fell in love with photography (outside of iPhone shots)

– I found myself writing on scraps of paper, napkins, in notebooks, on backs of old photos and receipts

– I created more physical things (art, furniture, decor) that I’ll try to keep forever

– My time on Pinterest spiked

– Played with paper things vs. staring at screens

– I had more time to process what I was thinking, feeling, and processing at the time. It’s funny how much your perspective changes in just a week’s time.

– I picked up the phone more often

– I found more community in honest things – learning and processing > pretty vacation photos

– Connected with people around the world experiencing similar things

– Shared my notes app entries which sparked a weekly writing call with a bestie (every Friday we share poetry, short stories, revelations, etc.)

– Sparked more honest, real conversations with friends navigating new relationships, marriage, friendships, loss; you name it

– Inspired probably over 1 million voice memos LOL

– Met 3 new pen pals (strangers from all over the world!)

I learned to cultivate unconditional friendliness to myself by turning off and tuning in.