Chapter 1: Introduction to My Journey

If you haven't seen the initial part of this series I'm working on, feel free to check it out here. In essence, I'm on a quest to regain my momentum and organization, and I'm documenting the small daily, weekly, and monthly practices that help me evolve into the best version of myself.

Interestingly, yesterday turned out to be a fantastic day. Normally, I might describe my daily life as uneventful—“just another day”—but upon reflection, I realized it was genuinely fulfilling. Here’s a summary of some actions I took that contributed to my personal growth.

I chose to walk home from the gym instead of getting a ride.

After an intense session of weight training and cardio, I often feel exhausted and opt for a lift home. However, this time, I embraced the fresh air and stopped at my favorite coffee shop for a cold brew while listening to an engaging audiobook. The walk took about 45-50 minutes, excluding my coffee break. It felt rewarding; sometimes, taking a ride home feels like I’m shortchanging myself. Since I live in a walkable area of LA, why not walk when I can?

Upon returning home, I wasted no time. I quickly prepared breakfast and dove into my work. I edited and submitted a draft to one publication, then finalized another piece that needed significant revisions. I even began working on the first article for this series and published it. Completing three tasks in one day felt monumental, especially since I’ve struggled with consistent writing for months.

Typically, I wouldn’t view this as a success; I tend to be overly critical. If I felt satisfied with my progress, I’d remind myself that I hadn’t been writing regularly, so three pieces should be more like three hundred to make up for lost time. I’m learning to appreciate the small victories, which makes life more enjoyable rather than constantly criticizing myself.

I dedicated over an hour to reading.

This is a significant achievement for me—though I love reading, I usually reserve it for the weekends. On weekdays, I often listen to audiobooks I've already heard multiple times. Recently, I started reading "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry," and it’s been captivating. I made it halfway through just days after starting it.

My boyfriend had a client meeting, and I asked to tag along so I could read without interruptions. She had a spacious and beautiful backyard, which offered the perfect setting for relaxation. The warm sun, the chirping birds, and the serene atmosphere allowed me to unwind completely.

I decided to go to the sauna—even when I didn't feel like it.

I aim to visit the sauna two to three times a week for about 25 minutes. This is a relatively new habit my boyfriend and I have introduced into our routine. The daily stresses of life—eating, moving, working—can be taxing on our bodies. Engaging in activities like exercise or sauna sessions can help us build resilience to these stressors.

Saunas create what’s known as “hormetic stress,” which can enhance mood and reduce anxiety, ultimately improving our ability to manage everyday stress. Heat exposure prompts the release of Dynorphin, a hormone that, although uncomfortable, helps cool the body and sensitizes endorphin receptors, leading to a prolonged sense of well-being.

Moreover, research indicates that regular sauna use can significantly impact longevity. A study involving 2,315 men over 20 years found that those who used the sauna two to three times a week had a 22% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 23% reduced risk of all-cause mortality compared to those who only used it once a week. Furthermore, using the sauna for longer durations (15-20 minutes) correlated with a 40% lower risk of fatal cardiovascular disease.

Feeling revitalized after my sauna session is always a highlight, despite the mental hurdles I face in getting there.

I refrained from late-night snacking.

Usually, I prefer to fast during the week and finish my meals by 7 or 8 PM. However, after a late dinner, we began watching a new TV show, which made me stay up later than usual. By the time dinner was done, it was past eleven, and I faced a dilemma: indulge in a sugary bowl of cereal or head straight to bed for a restful night.

Through trial and error, I've learned that eating close to bedtime, especially sugary snacks, disrupts my sleep patterns. I would often wake up wide awake in the middle of the night due to insulin spikes. As someone who likes to rise early, it's crucial for me to finish eating at a reasonable hour and avoid late-night snacks, especially since I'm trying to slim down.

I stood in the kitchen, eyeing my “healthy” cinnamon crunch cereal, and told myself, “It’s okay. I’ve been doing well all week; I can skip it tonight.” The next morning, I woke up feeling fantastic and energized, leading to a stellar workout at the gym—probably my best of the week.

Today, June 23rd, is shaping up to be great. I'm focusing on the positives: a trip to the gym, a refreshing coffee, and now sitting on my balcony while writing this. My boyfriend and I have a date planned later, and I'm excited for a wonderful weekend ahead. Wishing you a fantastic weekend as well!

If you want to follow my journey, consider subscribing to my YouTube channel. Plus, grab my free wellness e-book designed to help you show up as your best self every day.

Chapter 2: Key Insights for Personal Growth

In this video, explore the importance of taking action today based on your past decisions. It emphasizes how our daily choices shape our future.

This video discusses four essential actions to take daily to invite divine support and transform your life, helping to alleviate struggles and enhance well-being.