When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.
Paulo Coelho
Hey, Lovelies.
What do you do to manage overthinking, stress and bad moods?
As a highly sensitive person, and someone with a chronic degenerative illness, I have found that pain and overwhelm can sometimes trigger me into becoming reactive to things which would normally not bother me.
Know what I mean?
I don’t want to be that person – a cranky person, a reactive person, a stressed person. That’s not enjoyable for me, or for anyone I may come into contact with. I want to be a calm person. I want to be able to be in charge of my emotions, rather than them being in charge of me.
Two of my favourite quotes help me put things in perspective.
The first one, by Marcus Aurelius, is one I reflect on daily. Sometimes, several times a day.
Learn to be indifferent to what makes no difference
Marcus Aurelius
I love this quote, and its gentle wisdom.
It reminds me not to sweat the small stuff, not to overreact. It reminds me to pick my battles, and to be unconcerned by things that are outside my circle of influence.
The second quote is one I attribute to my husband, Ben.
Will this matter in 5 years?
Ben Phillips
He’s right.
It’s the kind of question that helps me stop wasting time. It’s the kind of question that makes me think deeply about what choices I will make, and where to put my energy.
It’s what helps me to let certain things slide. It’s what helps me see where to take a stand.
These two ideas help shape me into a better version of myself.
I hope these quotes can serve you too, and become part of your coping toolkit.
Much love, Nicole xx

Dearest Nicole,
Thanking you dear from the bottom of my heart. God knows I needed to hear those wise words from you. Hoping , wishing and praying the very best for you.
Lots of love , prayers and hugs,
Take Care
I’m feeling it too at the moment…a bit crazy and overwhelmed. Is it the approaching full moon eclipse? Thanks for sharing this Nicole. It helps. I too am sensitive and have a chronic illness. I appreciate the reminders not to sweat the small stuff.
Yes, Lunar Eclipse on the 26th. Hang in there. Much love xx
You too today huh? something must be in the universe as today has been especially hard for no particular reason and no particular warning! If I get like that I just cry it out, seek solitude or friends depending on reasons, or read, or watch something. Failing that go to bed early and tomorrow will be a good day (as someone semi famous over here once said) I hope you feel less overwhelmed soon, dear Nicole. You’ve been through so much these past twelve months, and they do say that moving house is one of the most stressful things you can do. You’re bound to feel unsettled at time, it’s new land, new spirits, new plants, new everything, everyone’s got to get to know one another. Brightest blessings and the gentlest of hugs.
That’s so true! Going to bed early is a big one for me too. Thanks for the lovely message xxx