Introduction
It's October 2013, and I'm just a month into 8th grade. I wouldn't say I was shy, but I definitely felt intimidated by my own voice. I struggled with low self-esteem, a lack of confidence, and the overwhelming feeling that my thoughts and emotions didn't matter. To everyone else, I was the funny, goofy girl who got along with everyone---even though, on the inside, I felt disconnected and unheard.
I remember trying to open up about my feelings, but more often than not, I felt dismissed---like no one had the time or space for the emotions I was carrying. So, I kept them to myself.
One day, in desperation for an outlet to express myself, I searched for a digital diary app on my iPad, hoping something like that even existed. To my surprise, I found one. I downloaded it instantly, and the moment I saw the little open-and-lock animation, I was hooked. That app became my first safe space. A place where I could be fully honest with myself---vent, reflect, make sense of my thoughts, and, of course, gush about my 8th-grade crush.
I had no idea that, as a 14-year-old, I was starting a lifelong practice that would reshape my life.
Wellness is More Than Just One Habit
As I got older, my journaling habit evolved alongside me. I started keeping both a digital and physical journal, each playing a different role in my growth. But writing wasn't the only thing that changed me---I started creating personal challenges for myself, too.
Like my 21-day self-confidence challenge, where I journaled through prompts to boost my self-esteem. Or my 30-day gratitude challenge, which taught me to embrace gratitude in a way I still practice today. I was unknowingly developing small wellness habits that helped me understand my emotions, regulate them, and cultivate a more positive mindset.
It wasn't until I explored deeper self-work---things like shadow work, affirmations, and mindfulness---that I realized how powerful these wellness practices could be. Not just for self-improvement, but for understanding myself on a deeper level.
Through this process, I learned some important things:
✔️ Taking care of your inner world changes how you show up in the outer world.
✔️ The way you think affects the way you feel.
✔️ And the way you feel affects the way you connect with others.
The journey of wellness isn't just about "feeling good." It's about learning to make your mind a better place to be. And when you do that, everything else---your confidence, your relationships, your sense of purpose---starts to shift, too.
I'm Still Learning (And That's the Best Part)
Even now, my journey isn't "complete." Wellness isn't about arriving at a destination---it's about continuously learning, evolving, and finding what works for you.
To deepen my understanding, I'm currently enrolled in a Life Coaching program, where I'm gaining practical tools to help people improve their mindsets, build healthier habits, and navigate personal growth in an approachable way. Through this, I get to practice coaching real people, which has been an incredible experience in itself.
I'm also an active Toastmasters member, refining my public speaking skills and becoming a stronger leader. Learning how to express myself with confidence is something I never imagined for myself back in 8th grade---but here I am, doing exactly that.
Why You Should Start Your Own Wellness Journey
I know that by sharing the tools I've learned, I can help others experience the same transformation. But I also know that the hardest part is starting.
There's so much information out there about wellness---what you "should" be doing, what's the "best" method, how to "fix" yourself. It's overwhelming. But the truth is, there's no right or wrong way to start. You don't need to overhaul your entire life.
Just start small.
✏️ Try journaling, even if it's just one sentence a day.
🤲 Practice gratitude, even if it's just one thing you're grateful for.
🤗 Take five deep breaths before a stressful moment.
🏃♀️ Move your body in a way that feels good, not forced.
💭 Speak kindly to yourself, even if it feels unnatural at first.
Wellness isn't about perfection---it's about creating little moments of care for yourself, every single day. Those moments add up. And over time, they reshape the way you see yourself, your life, and your potential.
So, as I continue learning and growing, I invite you to do the same. In March, I'll be sharing more about wellness for beginners---small, simple habits that can help you build a stronger foundation for self-care and personal growth. I hope you'll join me.
At the end of the day, the most important relationship you'll ever have is the one you have with yourself. So, let's make your mind a good place to be.