It’s not a revelation to tell you that 2021 wasn’t exactly a “normal” year. However for me, compared to 2020, it was actually more relaxing and far more enjoyable. Not just because we are all starting to get used to the “new normal” but because I finally started to learn about what it truly means to lead a more intentional, enjoyable life.

Throughout 2021 I was adopting a slower-paced lifestyle. I was living for myself more and doing things with my spare time that I actually enjoyed and not putting pressure on myself to be productive. It’s taken me a while to get here but I have learnt that this societal pressure of being a girl boss and hustling constantly doesn’t lead to a more fulfilling life - it actually leads to burn out. Although I am intentionally living a slower paced life now, there are still times when I can feel burnt out. After all, working a full time job and juggling simple things like exercising, socialising, household chores and looking after myself isn’t always easy. I’ve learnt to recognise when I am burnt out. For me, this usually means coming home from work, putting on a quick oven dinner and then vegging out in front of the TV all night. I understand sometimes that this is all I have the mental and physical energy to do. But I also understand that doing this just makes me feel worst further down the line.

I think I have discussed this on here before, but what makes me feel truly at my best is to stick to a routine that makes me feel good and in turn grows my confidence. In 2021 I really cemented this routine into my lifestyle. Whilst some people may argue that having a routine isn’t really considered to be a part of slower living, I think it’s important to acknowledge that a lot of us can’t all live out in the countryside with no responsibilities and just take each day as it comes. This is simply not accessible or possibly for most people. That’s why I think it’s important for people like me to know that you can live a slower paced life whilst still living in an urban environment and having a job. Slow-paced living to me isn’t about being free from all responsibility. It’s learning that you can be free whilst still maintaining your responsibilities.