But I Smile Anyway…

“A negative mind will never give you a positive life.”

~Unknown~

What a great quote, Spidey!

I am a firm believer in the power of positivity.

I’ve always touted myself as a ‘glass half full’ kinda gal all my adult life.

I was probably that when I was younger, too, but I didn’t consciously think about it.

But even the most positive person can flag when they are exhausted.

That was definitely me last week, possibly before I realised I was experiencing burnout… (Which I mentioned last week).

It was becoming tough to see the light. That negativity was seeping into each and every aspect of my thinking as tiredness leeched my energy away.

But you know what it’s like. You can’t just switch off from everything. If only it were that easy.

At least I was on school holidays. I can’t stop being a mum but I can ease off other responsibilities. This was why I took the decision to stop forcing myself to write since I couldn’t even think straight.

And even though this is my opportune word time, what with the stresses of work gone, I knew that if I carried on pushing, I would break.

I have begun to feel a bit better this last week.

I had time with my best friend when she came over for a few days. There have been good moments with the kids, too.

And we have a short break planned, too, so I have that to look forward to.

It feels like there is plenty to think positively about, and just that thought has made me feel so much better.

Here’s to the spark igniting again in a healthier way!

So, Peeps, how do you bring yourself back to thinking positively? 😊

“Burn bright, not out.”

Hamza Khan

This speaks volumes, Spidey. Thank you for this quote.

I listed all the things that I need to do over the summer, last Sunday, and after the first few days of my summer holidays, I felt quite positive, but this week has been a bit different.

Maybe I am coming down with something, or maybe my body is really screaming at me to just shut off for a while.

So, this past week, I did that. I had intentions of writing every day. Even if I could hit 1k words every day, that would be me, happy.

But aside from scheduling a few posts, and around 1.5k words since Monday, I realised I was trying to pour from a very empty jug.

I gave myself permission to switch off from my writing, which gives me so much pleasure, but equally, can stress me out, especially if I am writing substandard words because I am too tired.

I had a couple of appointments to attend, as well as a wedding for a very special couple, plus a shopping trip planned with the in-laws. None of these could be rescheduled.

But I could choose when to write my words.

I cannot hit burnout because I have a deadline. My words and stories are important to me, and they need to come as and when they are ready.

Life has been so busy/hard recently, I have to give myself a break.

We managed to book a short break away, too, because I think the whole family needs it.

The words will flow, soon enough, I am sure. But I am not going to dim my glow just to write when I am not in the right place. I cannot go back to school in September already burnt out.

So, Peeps, do you remember to give yourself permission to switch off? 😊