Yesterday, a blog identity crisis. Today, all clear thanks to writing it out and hearing from others who’ve been there too. Overthinking is more fun when you’re not doing it alone.

Just me, once again, trying to figure out how to balance micro posts and long-form writing. No big revelations, just some honest thoughts about what feels right (and what doesn’t) when it comes to blogging.

I’ve been thinking about how rare good listening has become. Here’s why being a listener matters to me, and why I think it’s something we could all use a bit more of.

Thoughts on why I love seeing new blogs pop up, and how blogging can be both a creative outlet and a way to connect with others.

A dreamy dive into Kate Bush’s Wuthering Heights — ghostly vocals, red dresses, and a story that’s kind of like Baby Reindeer on steroids. Music, obsession, and a little bit of awkward dancing.

Reflecting on past, future, and the uncertainty of life, I realize the most important part isn’t behind or ahead of us. It’s the present.

I recently overheard a conversation where someone proudly shared a photo of their grandchildren. The lighthearted response was a joke about the grandchildren doing the same in reverse: “Look, this is my grandmother. Isn’t she cute? Guess what she said today?” At first, it made me smile — but the thought lingered and slowly turned into a rather sad reflection. In some cultures, this scenario wouldn’t be far-fetched at all. Older people are deeply respected and revered, seen as keepers of wisdom and invaluable life experience.

I was recently listening to a thoughtful interview with the wonderful Finnish singer Arja Saijonmaa. The conversation touched on something we can all relate to — life’s inevitable setbacks. She said something that really stayed with me. That every difficulty, no matter how overwhelming it might feel in the moment, often turns out to have a hidden purpose when we look back. What seems like a dead end can, with time, reveal itself to be a necessary detour — something that led us somewhere we never would have gone otherwise.

This day started out with a bit of a challenge… The first client I visited had a (false) preconception about why I was there. I tried to explain, but she wouldn’t have it. Luckily, I’ve learned the value of a firm no. So I told her — it’s either my way or no way at all. I wouldn’t say we got into an argument, but we came pretty close. Anyway, I eventually got the chance to do what I was actually there to do.

Right now, I’m sitting at The International Bar. It’s just around the corner from where I live. Every now and then, I drop by for a beer or two. I like the atmosphere. The staff is super friendly, and I often bump into some regulars. Like one guy — an aspiring author from Germany. We usually chat a bit about reading, writing, and whatever’s going on in the world. Always a good vibe!