She Strengthens

Summer Vibes and the Illusion of Freedom

As the warm weather approaches, I’m excited to embark on two vacations in the next month. One will be a quick weekend getaway to celebrate my best friend’s birthday, and the other will be a longer trip abroad to reconnect with loved ones. There’s something about summer that makes everything feel carefree and relaxed.

The Blurred Lines of Work and Play

However, as someone who’s self-employed, I’ve come to realize that taking time off isn’t as simple as it used to be. With no one to answer to but myself, I’ve lost the luxury of truly disconnecting from work. If I choose to take a day off, I risk falling behind on projects and potentially losing income. The flexibility of being my own boss comes with the weight of responsibility, and it’s easy to get caught up in the never-ending cycle of work.

The Cult of Hustle

We often glorify the idea of working hard and sacrificing personal time for the sake of success. We’re told that the most successful people are those who put in the longest hours and make the greatest sacrifices. But is this really the key to happiness? I’ve met people who’ve achieved great success, but still can’t seem to take a break, even on vacation. Is the trade-off of being our own boss really worth the constant pressure and stress?

Breaking Free from Societal Expectations

As a woman, I feel an added pressure to prove myself and take on more responsibility. But I’m starting to question whether this is truly what I want. Do I want to be known as a hard worker, or do I want to be happy? Is the pursuit of success and wealth really worth delaying my own pleasure and enjoyment?

Finding Balance in an Unpredictable World

The truth is, we never know what the future holds. We could achieve all our goals and still not be happy. Or, worse, we might not even be here to enjoy the fruits of our labor. I’ve come to realize that it’s okay to prioritize my own happiness and take time to enjoy the present moment. It’s not about being lazy or unmotivated; it’s about recognizing that life is short, and we should make the most of it.

Embracing a Different Definition of Success

For me, success isn’t just about achieving a certain level of wealth or status. It’s about living a life that’s true to who I am and what I value. It’s about finding balance and enjoying the journey, not just the destination. And if that means saying no to certain opportunities or taking a step back from the hustle, then so be it. I’d rather be happy and fulfilled than rich and stressed.