Episode 1: Two-Minute Thursdays (Welcome Back)

Where has the newsletter been? What have I been up to?

Hi everyone! Welcome back to Two-Minute Thursdays. I know I have been MIA (newsletter-wise), and that is because I honestly think I have been bordering on, or am experiencing, burnout (yes, no bullshit and straight to the point today). I remember experiencing something similar in the summer of 2022, which helped me identify my symptoms this time around. I have never been vocal about it in the past because I used to think that I have been given this amazing opportunity to pursue working and living in the U.K., and I have no right to complain about experiencing burnout. I should be embracing everything that comes with it, as many would do anything to be in my position. Does anyone else relate to what I have just said, or is it just me being me?

So, I decided to take a step back from all the responsibilities I have outside of work to free up time to process work. I stopped publishing my newsletter, I stopped taking up brand collaborations, and I canceled plans with friends as I just wanted to be on my own. Then I realized that these are the things that actually bring me joy. I love writing my thoughts down and typing my feelings in a newsletter on a Sunday morning. This newsletter almost feels cathartic. So, I have decided to bring back the newsletter. I don’t want to stress about perfecting the structure. I just want a safe space to share my thoughts and feelings, and if even one of you reading this feels heard, then my job here is done.

So, going forward, you will receive some random ramblings from me weekly, with a whole lot of recommendations, insider information on the ideas I am working on, and of course, is it really my newsletter without a sprinkle of mental health messaging at the end?

Weekly Recommendations:

I recently went away on a two-week holiday to Croatia and Italy. If you have been following me on Instagram and YouTube, then you are aware that for the first time in years, I actually slowed down during the break.

Some of my favorite recommendations from this holiday (tried and tested):

• Best sunscreen spray SPF50 (been using for 3 years): Eucerin

• Favourite lip butter balm (which also works as a perfect gloss): Summer Fridays

• Investing in a Kindle has genuinely saved me space and money!

Quote For The Week

"The secret to waking up is to wake up way earlier than you have to. When you have 1-2 hours where you can just sit there calmly, drinking coffee, and not be rushed, you feel ten times better. Later on, you can work on being productive in the morning too, if you please."

-Simon Sarris

Message In An Image:

Looking Ahead:

I asked you guys on my Instagram stories if you have experienced burnout, and a staggering 90% of you said yes! I also asked what advice you would give your pre-burnout self, and so many of you said to take a break. So, I have taken your advice and I am going away for a short getaway this weekend within the U.K. Hope you all have a relaxing bank holiday weekend.

Until next week, look after yourself (first) and your loved ones