Hi friends, it’s already been 3 weeks since I relocated to Toronto again, and I’ll be candid — adjusting to change is always hard, not just logistically, but emotionally. And I’m a feeler.
I find myself missing dinners with my family, office hangouts with colleagues, spontaneous outings with Vancouver pals, the general familiarity of the place I’ve called home most of my life. But I recall feeling the same sense of sadness when I came to Toronto last summer, and how despite that, it was the best thing I could’ve done for myself.
Though I’m already a very different person than who I was just 6 short months ago, I’m certain that taking the leap (again) won’t be something I regret. Everyone is figuring it out, whether moving across the world or quitting their job or pursuing something completely foreign, and this is my way of pushing myself again. Do what scares you.
Despite the emotional turbulence of change, I’m excited and hopeful — for I’ve already proven to myself this is good for me. And it’s only been 3 weeks.
3 weeks for: a newfound sense of focus and self-awareness. Strengthening my faith. Connecting with new and old Toronto friends. Being fully responsible for myself. Embracing courage — professionally, emotionally, romantically. Seeing just how much I can fully step into the 2.0 version of myself.
And I think I’m doing pretty well :)
I wanted to share a journal entry I wrote today, where I found moments of gratitude between my new routine, reminding myself to stop and smell the flowers along the path of growth.
What I’m grateful for lately…
Snowfall in Toronto, despite me having fallen on my bum just minutes ago, for it reflects the constant sunshine and starts my mornings with serotonin.
Empowering podcasts from Mel Robbins, Mark Manson, Jay Shetty, and Rob Dial that get me inspired and upbeat while making breakfast.
Friendly and warm Senior VPs that I hop on client calls with, taking away the fear and imposter syndrome I'm slowly but surely chipping away.
Chaotic laughter with my roomie Teresa in the last hours before bed, posting dumb stuff on Close Friends Stories that make no sense to others.
Tasteful bites of taro chips, hot honey chicken, and imperfect veggies from Imperfect Fresh eats.
Meditative solo gym sessions — just me, the weights, and my EDM playlist, challenging strength limits and reminding myself that I can do hard things.
Spontaneous outings with my neighbour Vittorio, like a chilly line-up at Milk Up Bentway for grilled cheese, corn soup, hot chocolate, and donuts, choosing to keep bonding despite our frozen toes.
Church sermons that prompt self-reflection, nudging me to confront my ego and flaws and live every day in alignment with God, one devotional and conversation at a time.
Solo dance parties at home, blasting melodic bass through my speakers, envisioning the insane memories to be made with friends under the electric sky.
Catch-up convos with long-distance besties that get me giggling at my screen, excitedly counting down the days 'til we reunite in the flesh.
Recovery stretches in the heated studio at Sweat & Tonic The Well, smiling proudly after a yoga or Pilates sesh because I chose to show up for myself.
Gut-wrenching laughter and butt-slapping shenanigans (LOL) with my Toronto besties, helping me realize that maybe I can find "home" in this city after all.
Honestly, I’m proud of myself for finding joy despite my otherwise turbulent headspace, and simply wanted to share that today. :)
In the midst of being swept up in life, what can you pause and give appreciation for? Take just five minutes. Trust me, it’ll be worth it.
Warmly (in -7 °C),
Meg
🍵 Meg’s Weeklies
Keeping up with the Kardashians Megatron, through my weekly gems!
Podcast I’m listening to:
A snappy read / watch:
Quote I’m pondering:
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” —Arthur Ashe
Raw life update:
A spontaneous Galentine’s. Family Day AYCE hot pot. Badminton. Church. New high protein recipes. Realizing my body likes weights better than HIIT. Discovering podcasts. Meeting new friends. Chowing on cookies. Coffee shops. A little bit of everything.
Still feeling a bit scattered (inevitably), but reminding myself to pause and recenter a few times a day and take things one at a time.
Creating always helps :’) so I’m very very thankful to have this newsletter. Writing always makes me feel better.
… I’m turning 26 in 3 DAYS! Hasn’t hit me yet, but it sure will heh.
Check out my latest podcast episode: