Hi friends

I have had a busy week so this week is shorter than usual. Normal service resuming next week. What would you like me to write about? Let me know in the comments or reply to this email x

Today I cleaned my bathroom whilst singing along to Better the Devil You Know by Steps.

I got off the bus this morning by sort of skipping off it like I was in some cheesy sixties musical (and kind of twisted my ankle in the process but you know, it’s me, and it wouldn’t be on brand if that didn’t happen.)

Today I completed a miles long journey on public transport without catastrophising once. I just sat there, watching the scenery pass by through the window whilst trying my best to enjoy a Diet Coke (long time readers know that this is out of character).

Basically, what I’m trying to say is in the last week or so, maybe even few weeks or so, I have felt happy. Content. Positive.

Woah. As someone who feels maybe even a little addicted to worrying, this is a strange sensation. Being happy, after so long feeling not great by any stretch, feels like climbing a tall ladder, looking down and going ever so slightly unsteady on your feet.

Yep, I am worried about being happy.

I’m not used to this.

A lot is happening in my life. House buying. Sick pet. Professional and personal responsibilities. My life hasn’t been this busy since before my mega burnout.

But I’m coping, and moreover, I’m doing well.

Old me would be so depressed, so in the swamp, that they would just grind to a halt, find a dark room and hibernate.

This new sense of positivity wasn’t a happy accident. It was borne of the choices I have tried my best to stick to and keep myself well. Things like making sure I build in rest into my day, acknowledging it as just as important to my wellbeing as good food, drinking enough water, and getting enough sleep. Identifying boundaries and sticking to them. Knowing the limits of my own energy and what I can achieve in a day. Living authentically. Having hobbies. Stopping pressuring myself to act a certain way when outside in the big wide world. These are big changes that have taken over a year to get right, but everything is starting to finally slot into place.

It’s not a perfect science. Not to be a negative nelly, but don’t be surprised if I have a bit of a wobbly moment in the coming weeks and months (who wants to read a post titled ‘Buying a House with a Wavy Brain’? I’ll write it, I have a lot to say.)

But for now, things seem to be working (and my ankle doesn’t feel that sore.)

My Poetry Zine is Out Now!

My poetry zine is on sale now on my Etsy shop. You can find it at https://renswavystore.etsy.com

It received its first official review a few days ago and I couldn’t be more thrilled. Thank you to the customer who wrote this.

You can buy my zine here

Would anyone like a newsletter about running an Etsy shop for the first time whilst being up the wall with the brain bees? Let me know.

Take it easy,

Ren