Writing My Story and Navigating Life

Writing a book has always been on my heart. I've imagined the words flowing onto the page, pictured the cover, and dreamed of the day it would be finished. But now that I'm actually doing it, I find myself caught between excitement and exhaustion.

This book isn't just a collection of words, it's my truth. It's my pain, my triumphs, my failures. It's the raw, unfiltered journey of some of the hardest, most defining moments of my life. And while I believe in the power of sharing our stories, I would be lying if I said it doesn't feel terrifying. Writing a book feels different from a conversation or even a blog post. A book is permanent. It's a testament to my journey, a piece of my heart I am offering to the world. That is a weighty realization.

Revisiting the past, especially the parts I've worked hard to heal from, has been emotionally draining. Some days, I sit at my laptop, staring at the screen, willing myself to keep going. Other days, the memories feel too heavy. And in the midst of it all, I'm still navigating life, managing relationships, personal challenges, and the everyday stress that comes with simply being human.

Lately, I've felt like I'm running on empty. Writing this book, while cathartic, has taken a toll. It has forced me to face emotions I thought I had already processed. It's made me question whether my story will be understood, whether my vulnerability is worth it. But I also know this story needs to be told - not just for me, but for others who might see their own reflection in my words.

So, how do you keep moving forward when you feel drained? How do you realign with what truly matters when everything feels overwhelming?

For me, the answer is to pause and reset.

Next week, Wes and I are heading to Paris! A trip I desperately need. It's not just about seeing a new place; it's about stepping away from the weight of everything, even if just for a little while. It it is a chance to live in the moment, to reconnect with the man I love, and to remind myself that my life is happening right now, not just in the past I'm writing about or the future I'm working toward.

If you've been feeling emotionally drained, here are a few things that are helping me refocus:

1. Step Away When You Need To. Whether it's a big trip or just an afternoon unplugged, giving yourself space to breathe is essential. Burnout doesn't lead to breakthroughs.

2. Reconnect with What Matters. Writing this book is important, but so is my relationship, my passions, and my well-being. If something is draining you, take time to realign with what fills your cup.

3. Embrace the Present. It Is easy to get lost in the past or consumed by the future. But the small moments of laughter, the love, the new experiences - those are what make life meaningful.

4. Rest Without Guilt. Emotional exhaustion is real. Give yourself permission to rest, even if it feels counterproductive. Sometimes, slowing down is the most productive thing you can do.

5. Lean on Your People. Vulnerability isn't just about sharing your story with the world; it's about letting the people who love you support you through it. I'm thankful Wes has been my rock through the good days and bad.

As I continue writing, I'm learning that this journey isn't just about the book, it's about me. About allowing myself to feel, to process, to take breaks when I need to, and to trust that my story matters, even when it's hard to tell.

For anyone else feeling emotionally drained, whether from writing, life, or something else entirely...give yourself grace. Step back. Breathe. Reconnect. Your story matters, but so do you.