I’ve been thinking a lot about busyness lately: why it is that we fill our schedules up to the brim, leaving no time for things that are fruitful, and letting ourselves become anxious and stressed beyond comprehension. I’ve shared quite frequently as of late about how the clothes in my closet have been transitioning into much more simple and classic pieces in the past year. It wasn’t intentional by any means, but upon a bit of reflection it sort of feels like this change has been concurrent with what’s been going on in my life, too.

Last year it got to the point where I couldn’t see beyond the day-to-day, and was so stressed that I would close my eyes at night to sleep and my mind couldn’t shut off. I think it came from trying to please others and just being afraid that not doing something all the time meant that I wasn’t working hard enough or that I wasn’t enough. What changed? Well, in a nutshell, my heart. Defining purpose and focusing on what matters most, without the need to complicate things. An understanding of whose I am. And this certainly doesn’t come from a place of having it all figured out – not even close. I might even sound naive in writing all of this and that’s okay. I just know that it’s all too easy to slip into life this way, having the weeks, months, and years fly by with no overarching mission… and I have a feeling I’m not the only one who feels this way.

There’s been such joy in being okay with missing out on certain social engagements or opportunities, allowing myself to be transparent and sometimes wrong, knowing that none of that defines my value. Ironically, I’ve actually been a lot more productive and have accomplished more, being able to work harder when I need to be working… but taking time out intentionally to rest and for investing in others. I don’t frequently get personal on this blog, but felt compelled to today for whatever reason. I hope this serves as a bit of midweek inspiration to focus on what matters, and I’d love to hear your thoughts on this!

Wearing: Joe Fresh shirt, Mackage jacket, LOFT jeans, J.Crew pumps, benah bag (borrowed from Jenny)

Photos by Jenny Liu