“We must reject not only the stereotypes that others hold of us, but also the stereotypes that we hold of ourselves.” – Shirley Chisholm

Hey, welcome back!

So, I’m currently riding the rollercoaster that is everyday life with a few too many tabs open — hands in the air, snacks flying, trying not to scream. You ever have those weeks where it feels like every option is shouting at you, and you’re just standing there like, “Can someone PLEASE just make a decision for me?” Because same.

Apparently, everyone has a very strong opinion about what you should be doing with your life — even if you thought you’d made a perfectly reasonable decision. Doesn’t matter what it is: there’s always at least one person ready to say, “Oh… interesting choice.” (Code for: I wouldn’t do that, but go on, I guess.)

So here’s what I’ve been juggling this past week like a slightly overwhelmed circus act:

• Studying two Open University modules at the same time (because apparently I like a challenge)
• Training for an ultra marathon in Cornwall, which I’ve discovered is 98% hills and 2% cows
• Training for a 2km open water swim — shoutout to the sea for keeping things spicy with waves and surprise seaweed
• And applying for part-time jobs, all while trying to solve the eternal riddle: how many hours is “just enough” without turning into a burnt-out shell of a person?

I’m attempting to stick to a 9-to-5-ish routine. Mornings and evenings (and that magical window called “lunch break”) are for running, swimming, and socialising. Half the day is for studying, the other half for job applications and convincing my LinkedIn profile that I’m still a functioning professional. (Yes, LinkedIn — I still exist. Please stop judging me.)

But honestly? I keep wondering: am I getting the balance right? Am I doing it right? Or am I just flailing gracefully and hoping no one notices?

The truth is, I’m figuring it out as I go. Maybe that is doing it right. Or at least… right enough.

Speak soon,
M x