I woke up one day, and I was in my 30s
During the pandemic, time felt like it stood still. It was as if life froze, and we all were forced into survival mode, simply trying to make it through each day. Seasons passed, leaves fell, but I remained in a loop, clinging to routines that once made me feel safe. Now, as life resumes, the expectation is to function as we once did.. which feels impossible in this moment, as the life that I once knew, no longer exists.
A few weeks ago, I turned 31, and the feeling of unfamiliarity is evident. It feels like I’ve just woken up from a long fever dream, suddenly realizing that I no longer recognize the life I have. My body has aged, but my spirit feels like it’s been stuck, waiting in a loop. I have found myself in a world that feels out of place, and it feels uncomfortable.
But discomfort is where growth happens.
This phase of my life is forcing me to confront the unknown, teaching me lessons in faith and intention. The fear of the unknown is real and can be paralyzing at times, but I’ve realized that the same cycles that I’ve relied on for comfort are no longer serving me—they’re actually contributing to my sense of unease. The distractions and unhealthy patterns are no longer hiding the grief and uncertainty; they’re feeding into it.
So, I’ve made a decision. I’m choosing to take my life back, to live with purpose and mindfulness. I want to be so rooted in faith that nothing can shake me. I’ve decided to believe in magic again—the kind that happens when you break free from old habits and create space for something new.
Creating this new space will be difficult… but below are some tools that can help one navigate through life while practicing intentionality and mindfulness —one step at a time:
1. Daily Meditation Practice
A few minutes of meditation can set the tone for a mindful and productive day. Focusing on your breath or a point of awareness allows thoughts to pass without judgment, grounding you in the present.
2. Body Awareness
Always check in with your body throughout the day. Whether you’re walking, eating, or sitting, notice how your body feels in that moment. This effortless practice brings you back to the present and strengthens the mind-body connection.
3. Mindful Breathing
Whenever stress or distraction creeps in, pause and take a moment for a few deep breaths. Focus on the sensation of air entering and leaving your lungs. This can quickly calm the mind and help you regain focus.
4. Intentional Action
No matter how small the task, do it with intention. By giving your full attention to even the most mundane activities, you bring mindfulness into every aspect of your life.
5. Monitor Emotions Without Judgment
Pay attention to your emotions without trying to fix or judge them. Simply noticing how you feel can build emotional awareness, allowing you to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.
6. Gratitude Practice
Each day, take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for. This shift in perspective from what’s lacking to what’s present cultivates a more positive and mindful mindset.
7. Be Present in Conversations
Practice active listening by fully engaging in your conversations without distractions. This deepens your connections and ensures you’re truly present with others, enhancing relationships.
By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, mindfulness becomes a natural way of living, not just something you do. These small steps can help you feel more grounded, balanced, and in tune with your emotions and well-being.
Even though uncertainty still exists, staying intentional and mindful will allow for life to truly unfold in your favor. It’s not about having every answer or controlling every outcome. It’s about trusting the process, showing up for yourself, and believing that you can create a healthier, more meaningful life moving forward.
So, decide today. Decide that life will unfold for you, and not just happen to you.
Until Next Time…