A better version of yourself...

Sundays in my opinion are croissant and coffee days. You wake up, bake some fresh croissants (or heat some up from Waitrose if you are me) and pour yourself a freshly brewed coffee and take a moment to appreciate the life you have around you.

Recently I have realised that although money makes the world go around your job isn’t everything – and if that job is causing you stress and grief it isn’t healthy. So a few weeks ago I left my old job and took on a barista role at coffee lab, a small company producing artisan coffee and in my opinion the best brownies in the world – they are divine. It is crazy how a career change can produce an attitude change. I am certinly a ‘better version of myself’.

Over the past few years I have been battling with the idea of creating a healthier more prominent version of myself. An individual that I am happy with and someone that I look in the mirror and say, “you know what, I am happy to be in your skin!”.

Battling with imperfections and mental self-doubt to me was one of the hardest things to deal with. And I would recommend always trying to over-weigh the negatives with your positives. Whatever you are struggling with I would always recommend to flood your life with family and friends that make you smile and that make you happy. I went through a stage of isolating my family and close friends and this puts up a barrier and locks away your confidence which then becomes exceedingly hard to breakdown. Over the more recent months I have learnt that your family love you no matter who you are. So don’t be afraid to share your troubles and weaknesses with them as they are the ones who will grab your hands and pull you through.

Another thing I learnt is to take each problem step by step. Don’t swamp your head with negativity and say “I’m no good at this, this doesn’t look right, I need to change this”. As you will NOT achieve anything. If you want to write a mental list then do so, but tackle each bullet point a step at a time and take the time to really focus on how to better yourself.

Never ever be scared to ask for help. I have learnt the term, “bottling it up”. Never keep the tap on constantly filling the bottle as when it over flows it will become harder to clean up. Keep emptying the bottle as it fills up and you will keep control of your emotions easier. Find someone who either knows you personally or someone who can become a friend from a distance and they can sit and listen and help you unwire your problems.

But lastly, I have learnt to make myself happy. I have found a job I enjoy where I can learn and not feel stressed and under pressure. Find activities you enjoy. Take great photos to remember all your good times. And enjoy being young (if you are young) or enjoy your family and watching your children be young. It is okay to let loose and party but surround yourself with like-minded people who will look after and support you.

And remember you come first, your health, happiness and well-being is Important. So don’t be afraid to grab someone’s hand and let then ride your journey with you. The support I am getting from my friends and family is putting me high on the clouds and helping me to ride through this difficult time in my life.

Best wishes Rebekah xx