The Unpolished Bits – March reflections
1. Opening Reflection
This has not been a good month for me. I’ve been signed off with work‑related stress. The weight of work, combined with a lack of support, had simply become too much. I reached out to my GP, and they agreed I needed some space. It is frightening to admit how hard things have been. As someone who practices what I preach, it’s humbling to realise that sometimes the tools aren’t enough to hold back the overwhelm.
I also finally had my long‑awaited hospital appointment — the one that was originally supposed to happen in September 2024. I spent ages preparing for it. It actually went very well, which was a pleasant surprise. I’m now on medication that induces a temporary menopause, and at the moment it feels like I’ve been hit by a bus, joint pain, brain fog, fatigue and more. Apparently this can last for 3 months whilst the medication settles in.
2. Monthly Theme or Focus
The focus this month has been self‑care in its most practical form. All the hints and tips I share on the blog have been out in full force. I’m determined not to collapse in a heap, but instead to use this time to recharge so I can return to work in the best position possible. As a result, I’ve spent a lot of time walking and reading. I’ve also been working on reducing my social media usage — you can find my top tips for that here.
3. How My Yearly Goals Are Showing Up This Month
Even with the setbacks, there has still been progress toward my wider goals. This month is a perfect example of why I choose long‑term goals rather than resolutions. You can read my article on resolutions here. Long‑term goals allow for progress rather than perfection, even when life feels heavy.
Yoga continues to be a strong part of my routine. I genuinely think it saves my life. Many people believe you have to be super fit or flexible to do yoga, but I’d argue they probably haven’t found the right instructor — whether in person or online.
Financially, I’m still taking small, steady steps. Saving first really does make a difference.
The biggest success this month has been environmental: I’ve nearly halved my plastic waste and decreased my recycling compared to February. Finally emptied my bin I have a 10 litre one and that first time since end of January. It’s going in the right direction, though it’s much harder than people realise. I’m lucky to have a good wholefood store and a zero‑waste shop nearby. I can’t imagine how difficult this would be without those facilities. There’s also a budget factor — the cheaper supermarkets near me are consistently more affordable, but everything comes wrapped in plastic.
My mental health has obviously been a major focus. I’ve struggled with intense stress and a lot of guilt about taking time off work. My clients need support, but they also need me to be able to hold what they bring — and I couldn’t do that safely in the state I was in. So doing what I can to maintain my mental health.
4. What’s Helping
Self‑care, self‑care, self‑care. I cannot say this enough: it is okay to take time to look after yourself. Even when you’re juggling a demanding career, caring responsibilities, or both. It’s the oxygen‑mask‑on‑a‑plane scenario. You have to put yours on first.
5. What’s Slipping (and Why That’s Okay)
A lot has slipped. I reached a point where I could no longer keep going without spiralling into very difficult thoughts and a lot of tears. It’s frightening how quickly overwhelm can creep up. Even so, I’ve managed to maintain my exercise routine and my healthy eating habits, and that feels like a small but meaningful win.
6. What I’m Learning
I’m learning that even with all the tools and techniques I share on my blog, sometimes you need more support. My self‑care routine has served me well for a long time — but this month, it wasn’t enough. And that is okay. There is no shame in asking for help. In fact, it’s often the bravest and most necessary step.
7. Gentle Intentions for Next Month
As we move into a new month, my intention is to gently reintroduce the routines that help me feel steady. I’m hoping to return to the job I love, but with clearer boundaries and a more sustainable pace. This series has always been about moving forward with honesty and hope — even when the path is challenging.
