Price Shock: Enough is Enough

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OG version: “The best time to start was last year. The second best time to start is right now.” — Seth Godin

Edited version: “The best time to quit was last year. The second best time to quit is right now.”

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Why I’m Cutting Back at Tim Hortons

Okay, so picture this 🙌 You’re in Calgary, AB, it’s freezing outside, and you just want that little bit of comfort to start your day. For me, that comfort has always been a large or XL steeped tea from Tim Hortons.

It’s kind of a Canadian classic, right? This brand used to be a huge part of our national vibe a few years back #nostalgia. But now, every time I hit the drive-thru or walk up to the counter, I feel a little pinch in my wallet. The prices are getting out of hand, even with the Tim’s app which I use on a regular basis, and honestly, I’m [about] done. Seriously, enough is enough. 🙄

Image source: Image is my own. I took this at a local Tim Hortons coffee shop. Merry Christmas! 🎄✨

It seems like that so-called Canadian brand (which isn’t even Canadian, and you can totally tell) is losing its no-nonsense vibe that made it great. Now it’s all about pushing data, jacking up prices, and getting you to download their app. Honestly, I’m just a regular person; I don’t want a million notifications or fancy offers. I just want my tea at a decent price, for crying out loud. I sound like a cranky old person, haha. 😝

My Gameplan for 2026

As we venture into the new year, I’m switching things up. Yet again! I’m not totally ditching my love for steeped tea (there’s no way I can make it as good at home), but I’m definitely cutting way back. It’s a hard choice, but with all these price hikes and inflation, it’s getting too real to ignore, just like everything else inflation has sucked the fun out of.

Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever said this out loud, but I’ve gotta keep it real—Tim Hortons coffee? I’m not a fan at all 🙅‍♀️ There, I said it. I get that it’s still kind of a big deal in Canada, but hey, that’s how I feel. I’ve never really enjoyed their coffee. Now, McDonald’s coffee is a bit better, but still not my go-to beverage of choice.

My whole thing has always been steeped tea. It’s got this specific, comforting flavor and strength that I just cannot replicate at home in order to save money, no matter how hard I’ve tried. I’ve bought different brands, tried various steeping times, the works. Nothing hits the same. That unique, elusive taste is the only reason I’ve remained a loyal customer all these years. It was my one little luxury that felt justified.

But even my steeped tea addition and dependency has its limits when the cost keeps climbing. 📈

Image source: Image is my own. I took this at another local Tim Hortons coffee shop.

The Annoying Two-Tiered Pricing System

The thing that really gets me isn’t just inflation (that’s a whole other can of worms for another time). They’ve made this annoying two-tier system where the real deals and discounts are just tucked away in the Tims mobile app. But honestly, even that feels like a rip-off now. You’re not saving much money, and I’m pretty picky about what’s considered “a good deal” on the app. Sure, it’s better than not using it at all, but the points system is a total joke. Spend $40 (400 points) and you score a free tea or coffee. It used to be way better—buy 7 drinks, get one free! ☕💔

Why the Value Just Isn’t There Anymore

The global cost of things like coffee beans and packaging has definitely doubled in the last few years too, and I get that businesses need to find a way to survive. Prices inevitably have to go up so businesses can stay open. But for the average person standing at the counter in Calgary or any city in Canada really, seeing that total tick up higher and higher every few months is super frustrating.

When the price of my daily steeped tea starts creeping into the territory of a fancy, high-end, locally roasted latte from a modern, independent café down the street, I can no longer justify the cost of buying it anymore. I refuse to spend money at local coffee shops because of the same issue: cost. It’s too expensive for the average consumer.

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ FINAL THOUGHTS ♥

My current cutback is a reflection of how bad things have gotten. I know the issue of inflation and corporate greed is complex—it’s not a simple fix. But until things change, I’m going to have to get serious about perfecting an alternative DIY steeped tea recipe for most days I’m home. As of right now, the best tea alternative I’ve found is Yorkshire Tea, imported from the UK. It’s not remotely close to steeped tea from Tim Hortons, but at least I can live with it.

Your best bet would be to check your local Walmart or London Drugs, both of which sometimes carry the classic blend and even limited-time flavors. I know using a tea bag doesn’t quite replace a proper steeped tea, but it’s a step in the right direction. I’m a bit nervous about what 2026 will bring, but let’s hope for a prosperous new year. I also hope I am able to escape the tight grip that my steeped tea habit has on me!

✨ Wιʂԋ Mҽ Lυƈƙ! ✨

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ P.S. Enjoyed this post? ♥ If you want to support my quest to find the perfect, affordable steeped tea, consider fueling my motivation with a small donation on Ko-fi. Your support helps keep content like this coming!

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Help support Hilary & her caffeine addiction. Thank you very much for your support.

What are your thoughts on rising prices and corporate greed where you live? Are you cutting back on any daily luxuries? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation! ↓

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

Is Temu Addictive? An Honest Look 👀

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“In a consumer society there are inevitably two kinds of slaves: the prisoners of addiction and the prisoners of envy.” — Ivan Illich, Austrian philosopher

How gamification and deep discounts keep us hooked on #Temu.

Ever hit that “buy now” button on something ridiculously cheap on Temu and immediately wonder, “How the heck did I get here?” You are not alone, and that feeling is entirely by design. Temu, armed with its catchy “Shop Like a Billionaire” slogan, is a genius playbook in behavioral psychology. It seamlessly blends wild, and slightly dangerous, design tricks with gamification tactics to keep everyday consumers glued to their screens for hours on end. 📲💻

👉AI generated Image: Temu app interface showing bright colors, flash deals, and a “spin the wheel” graphic.

It might not be a full-blown addiction, but you can’t deny that the site is made to deliver those sweet dopamine hits that totally make you want to splurge. Neil Saunders, a retail expert, even says Temu is as addictive as candy. It’s not just about getting what you need either. Shopping feels more like a game and you can’t help but love that rush of snagging a deal. The thrill of the hunt, combined with the satisfaction of finding that perfect item at the right price, makes you constantly come back for more. There’s also the community aspect, where people share their finds and recommendations, which only adds to the excitement of the experience. Honestly, I’ve tried hard to shop mindfully, but I’ll confess… I’m totally hooked. I find myself scrolling through Temu every week, all while trying to stay skeptical, yet inevitably getting caught up in the charm of the endless sales and promotions that seem too good to pass up.

The Gamification of Shopping & My Skepticism

Temu is all about having a blast while you shop, making it feel more like a mobile game than just scrolling through a dull store. When you hit up Temu, you’ll find awesome features that totally match the gaming vibe, way different from the usual online shopping stuff. Temu is notorious for gamification tactics, which include:

⭐ Spin-to-Win Wheels ⭐These casino-inspired features offer the brief thrill of winning big discounts or coupons, providing an immediate rush of excitement!

⭐ Daily Check-ins and Mini-Games ⭐Features like feeding a virtual fish or growing crops in “Farmland” to earn real rewards create a reason to open the site every single day, building a powerful habit loop.

⭐ Referral Programs ⭐The site uses a fun, multi-level marketing (MLM) style approach, encouraging users to sweetly recruit friends for delightful prizes and rewards!

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Honestly, I don’t bother using the app or getting involved in those schemes. The constant pop-ups for the spinning wheel really get on my nerves and make it super hard to just search for what I need. I have zero trust in how it works, and I’ve heard way too many stories about users not getting their full rewards or dealing with confusing terms and conditions. Plus, the app’s been called out and even faced lawsuits because of how much data it collects, so I just skip it altogether and stick to using the desktop browser in incognito mode. It’s still got its risks, but honestly, it feels like a way safer option than the app.

However, moving to the browser doesn’t make me immune to the appeal of a good deal. I’m still addicted to the hunt for value. I can skip the spin-to-win, but I can’t seem to resist the overall platform’s pull. I’m not immune to the promise of getting an item for a fraction of its perceived retail cost.

The Psychology of Impulse Purchases

Beyond the games, Temu pulls out some sneaky tricks—often called “dark patterns”—to get you to spend more money on stuff you probably don’t even need. And guess what? These tactics work just as well on the website as they do in the app. You might’ve seen messages like this:

✨ Sense of Urgency and Scarcity ✨Messages like “Only 3 left!!!” or “Deal ends in 5 minutes!” create a powerful fear of missing out (FOMO) and push users into making snap decisions without thinking about whether they truly need the item.

✨ Infinite Scroll and Personalization ✨The design uses an infinite scroll feature similar to TikTok or Instagram, making the browsing mindless and entertaining. Behind the scenes, the site tracks every click, search, and abandoned cart to constantly refine recommendations, ensuring the feed is hyper-personalized to your interests and price sensitivity.

✨ Social Proof ✨Seeing “50 people bought this in the last hour” or a flood of five-star reviews creates social proof, tapping into our desire to conform and join in on popular trends.

👉AI generated Image: Yeah, I know this isn’t a 100% perfect illustration, but you get the point.

Breaking the Temu Addiction (Sort Of)

So, how do we actually shop smarter and still treat ourselves to a few cool things? Learning their tricks is the first step to fighting the pull of those insane prices and endless options. Here’s a quick rundown of the simple hacks I’m using to shop with more purpose:

❖ The Stick-to-the-List Rule: I follow a shopping list like it’s my best friend to stop myself from getting caught up in all the sales and shiny offers. If it’s not on the list, it’s not coming home with me.

❖ The “Wait and See” Game: If I spot something awesome I think I need, I pop it in the cart but make myself chill for a day or two before buying. It’s wild how often that feeling of “gotta have it now” disappears when the pressure’s off.

❖ A “Win” is Still Money Spent: This is the tricky one. Even when you score a massive discount, you’re still spending cash. The platform is all about getting you to interact and buy, not doing you a favor. A pro tip: Use payment services like PayPal for extra safety when you finally decide to buy.

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Honestly, it’s cool how Temu connects us directly to manufacturers, which in theory should be all about efficiency and great deals. This structure certainly makes it easy to find low prices and unique items. However, the platform isn’t just a simple marketplace; Temu seems primarily designed to make us enjoy the act of shopping itself, rather than just the utility of a purchase. This creates a hard to break, continuous consumption cycle.

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ FINAL THOUGHTS ♥

Ultimately, I’m just as human as anyone else. Despite understanding every single one of their sneaky marketing ploys, I still can’t resist those amazing offers and the sheer thrill of snagging a bargain. Every time I open that shopping app, I feel that rush of excitement scrolling through countless products that promise to enhance my life—be it gadgets, clothing, or home essentials. I’m right there in the trenches with you, trying to save some cash without totally cramming my place full of stuff I don’t really need, and honestly? I’m still figuring out that balance. It’s a super delicate dance of prioritizing what actually adds genuine value to my life versus what just looks appealing in the moment.

What about you? Are you a regular Temu shopper who’s noticed these addictive patterns? Or maybe you have some brilliant hacks for shopping smarter? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation! ↓

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

My Favorite Time of Day: 0200

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Daily writing prompt
What’s your favorite time of day?
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The Stillness of 2:00 AM

My favorite time of day is 2:00 AM (0200 on the 24-hour clock), when the world outside is cloaked in a deep, calming silence that feels like a rare gift. With my family sound asleep and no distractions like phone notifications, emails, or daily errands pulling at my attention, my mind feels free to wander and explore new possibilities. This quiet hour transforms my home into a peaceful haven where I can dream up blog post ideas, reflect on life’s big questions, or simply enjoy the stillness that sparks my most creative thoughts.

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The Quiet of the Night

To wind down at 0200, I love tuning into podcasts about psychology and philosophy, which explore fascinating ideas about how our minds work or what it means to be human. The stillness of the night amplifies every word, making it feel like I’m sitting down for a private chat with brilliant thinkers, sparking inspiration for my own projects or personal reflections. Without the noise of daytime distractions, I can dive deeply into these thought-provoking topics, letting my imagination soar and connecting ideas in ways that feel exciting and new. Some nights, I dive into them so deeply that I end up pulling an all-nighter because the topics are incredibly fascinating.

Image source: Resized from https://in.pinterest.com/pin/my-saves

The Quiet of the Morning

I’m not usually a morning person, but every now and then, I find myself at a Tim Hortons or McDonald’s around 8:00 AM, after dropping my toddler off at Montessori, greeted by the crisp, fresh air outside that wakes me up just a little. Inside, the soft hum of early-morning conversations and the gentle clink of coffee cups create a soothing, welcoming atmosphere, offering a brief escape from the chaotic mental chatter in my head. I always grab a steaming caffeinated drink—rarely food—and as I sip it, I tune into a podcast, catching fleeting moments of the mental clarity I cherish at night, though the bustle of the waking world often tugs at my focus. These rare morning visits carry a quiet charm, brightened by the refreshing breeze outside, but they can’t match the deep, uninterrupted stillness of 2:00 AM, my treasured time for profound reflection and bursts of creative inspiration.

Image source: Original source unknown. Image resized.

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I realize this blog post turned out more serious than I planned, but it’s no surprise I’m publishing it at 3:30 AM, and no that’s not a typo. As I mentioned, my mental focus is better at night, when the stillness of the night lets my thoughts flow freely. What’s your preferred time of day, and what makes it special for you? Are you a morning lark or a night owl? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Join the conversation by leaving a comment below! ↓

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ P.S. If you enjoyed this blog post, consider supporting my writing with a small donation on Ko-fi. Your support fuels my energy and motivation to keep creating content like this!

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Help support Hilary & her caffeine addiction. Her musings do not write themselves.

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

Where Did my Name Come From?

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Daily writing prompt
Where did your name come from?
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What’s Up With Hilary?

Just to clarify, it’s Hilary, not Hillary or —goodness, no—Hillary Clinton, so let’s not go there. I’m more of a Hilary Duff, anyways.

Please note that I’m keeping this blog post about my first name, Hilary, because diving into my middle name—shared with my great aunt, a nurse with a story worth its own novel, would take us on a tangent. Also, my married name, Tan, is super common in Singapore, but my maiden name? It’s practically extinct. I’m the last of my family to carry it, and let’s just say I’m not its biggest fan, but will make light of it with humor, of course.

My name, Hilary, feels like a whisper from the past, carrying a gentle, soft melody that I’ve always found grounding. Derived from the Latin word, Hilarius, meaning “cheerful” or “happy,” it’s a name rooted in joy, which resonates with my quirky, uplifting personality. I’m not just funny—I’m Hilary-ous! I often joke and say that if I could have any job in the world, I would be a comedian.

A Touch of History

Historically, Hilary was a unisex name, used for both men and women, but when I think of it as a male name, I think of the guy who climbed Mt. Everest—Sir Edmund Hillary, I believe. My name might be timeless, but it’s not very popular anymore, especially after Hillary Clinton’s time in the public eye. However, there’s something poetic about carrying a name spoken across centuries, even if it doesn’t hold much significance for me. Honestly, I would’ve been fine with a different name. Then there are people who, as if it’s a groundbreaking idea I’ve never considered, say, “Well, you could use your middle name since you don’t seem to like your first name that much!”

Gee, I never thought of that! Actually, I can’t, because my middle name is worse than my first name!

I often write blog posts about finding peace in the chaos of life, and Hilary feels like a quiet nod to that mission. Its cheerful essence reminds me to seek joy in small moments—whether it’s a quiet morning with my journal or a walk on my favorite trail. My parents chose it because they wanted a name that felt unique yet classic, something that would stand out without being overly trendy. My mom wanted a name that sounded musical, and she preferred a variation of Hillary, which she said she didn’t care for. I often get called nicknames like Hilz, Hilly, Hil, and others that aren’t even close to my name, like Hilla, Hailey, Hannah, and so on. I really don’t mind Hailey. In my opinion, Hailey or Hannah are much better names.

A Personal Connection

Growing up, I didn’t really like my name, Hilary. As a kid, I sometimes wished for something more common, like Jessica, Hailey, or Claire—names that were popular in the 1980s and 1990s. I wanted a common name because I longed to fit in and have a normal childhood. But my childhood was anything but normal. Is wanting a simple, vanilla life too much to ask? 🍦😔

Also, I got tired of correcting the spelling. Everyone, including teachers, would spell it H-I-L-L-A-R-Y. Ugh. Drop the extra L. Over time, I’ve grown to accept my name. I don’t love my name or its associations, but at least it’s distinctive, almost aristocratic. Hilary sounds like a name suited for the social elite. My name has taught me to embrace my differences and quirks. As my mom and Nana would say, my name sounds musical. My name is like a soft melody—unassuming but memorable. I also feel a lunar pull to my name, as if it aligns with the dreamy, introspective energy of Sereneluna (yes, it’s one word, not two!). Here I go again, correcting people on my blog’s spelling, just as I’m constantly correcting the spelling of my name.

Wanna know what’s not so funny? Having to pay fees to keep this blog alive. It costs money each year to run a blog, as most of you know, and it isn’t cheap. If you’d like to help keep this blog alive and see more posts like this, check out my Ko-fi donation link. My writing runs on caffeine! My suggested donation is $5 CAD (or $3.50 USD), but you can choose any amount. Alternatively, if you want to purchase a sticker from my Redbubble shop (@sereneluna), I earn about $1 per purchase, though that will change at the end of the month.

I’m curious to know if you’re participating in this daily prompt. After all, what’s in a name? Feel free to join the conversation by leaving a comment below ↓

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

Finding Motivation in my Daily Life

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Daily writing prompt
What motivates you?
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Motivation isn’t some grand, glowing epiphany for me—it’s more like catching flecks of glitter in the wild mess of my life as a 30-something Millennial wife and mom. Glitter and PlayDoh are strictly banned at my house because I have a #destructivetoddler. Motivation, specifically intrinsic (aka. internal) motivation, mostly comes out of nowhere, and it’s often spontaneous and unexpected. Between finding time and energy to write, getting lost in way too many hours on my computer or iPhone, cuddling my cat Timon, chasing after my kids, and chugging orange pekoe tea to stay awake like it’s my full-time job, here’s how I tap into motivation.

“Wherever the music takes you, kitten.” —Sheldon Cooper

Swaying with the Ebb and Flow of Life

I don’t have a clear-set structure or system for finding motivation. More often than not, it’s “wherever the music takes [me].” In other words, it’s like letting the bongo music guide me wherever it wants. I don’t know why, but that scene from The Big Bang Theory always makes me laugh. I thrive on those brief moments that make me feel like I’ve got it together, even if just for a second, and they usually hit when I’m not stuck to a routine or checklist. Instead of following influencers’ advice to make lists and “do this, do that” for motivation, sometimes tossing out the plan and letting the moment guide me, like following a song’s rhythm, pushes me to do something surprising, like dusting off my blog after months of neglect. 🙈

Some might not see it my way, but those little, unexpected moments of randomness are totally a form of motivation for me, grounding me fast when I realize I’m giving my all as a wife and mom. To all the moms out there, #IYKYK.

Personal Growth is a Whole Mood

Working on yourself, whether that’s personal growth and development or another sector of your life, is a vibe of it’s own. I often listen to self-development podcasts or watch youtube videos about psychology, philosphy, etc. to learn more about the world and seek truth about what’s real and what’s not. There’s a lot of distractions these days, and I just want to understand things a little better each day. I like diving into some podcast I didn’t need but couldn’t resist. It keeps my mind happy and stimulated. Blogging on http://www.sereneluna.net, is where I pour out my thoughts and feelings. Every post, even if it resonates with just one reader who vibes with me, keeps me anchored and fuels me to write more. That’s motivation right there.

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ FINAL THOUGHTS ♥

When the house gets quiet and Timon’s purring away without a care in the world, I ask myself: What keeps me going? Easy—I want to grow, keep love at the heart of it all, and make something that lasts, even if it’s making my family happy or publishing a blog post every now and then. Motivation isn’t a destination; it’s so many little things that give me a reason to keep going.

What motivates you? Join the conversation by leaving a comment below ↓ Maybe my blog post will motivate you to write something today. If you do answer the Writing Prompt, please tag me or let me know so I can read it! 🙂 I got the idea to respond to this Writing Prompt after reading Sajida’s response at https://mymindfulnessjourny.wordpress.com.

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

I’m back, but don’t hold your breath.

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Hi everyone! It has been a few months since I wrote a blog post, which should be no surprise to anyone by now. I know I have been away for way too long, and I am trying to make it up to you all. I didn’t mean to leave you hanging like a forgotten Labubu. Life is just… ugh, a total mess. I lost my laptop mouse, so I am typing this on the family desktop computer. Normally, I wouldn’t have time for a personal blog update, but when the husband’s away… the wife will write, or at least pretend to! 😝 I’m back for now, but don’t count on me blogging regularly. I have #ADD brain (high functioning, no meds). I don’t know when I’ll find my laptop mouse, but its got to be somewhere in the house (hey… it rhymes!). Speaking of which, I need to finish refining and uploading my poems but I don’t want to get carried away and risk blogging burnout again. Just be happy there’s something new to read, okay?

Image: This is how I feel when I’m trying to write a blog post. Image source unknown.

Redbubble Broke My Heart 💔

Redbubble was my side hustle and it ate up most of my free time when I wasn’t gaming. Now? It’s more like #Deadbubble —it’s not going to be my side hustle for much longer. Remember my little sticker shop? I made 116 unique designs since I joined, and poured my soul into these whimsical designs. I used what little commissions I made for coffee money (hello, caffeine addiction), in-game purchases for my Infinity Nikki obsession, and to support small artists on Etsy. Last week, Redbubble sent us the most disrespectful email I’ve ever seen. Redbubble’s fee changes, starting September 1st, 2025, is straight-up unethical, taking up to 50% of artists’ earnings, plus an extra 50% if you dare set your margins above 20%. That’s almost ALL of our profit margins, which is straight-up theft and a slap-in-the-face to small artists like me. I joined Redbubble because it seemed fun to design aesthetically pleasing stickers and merch, using the knowledge and skills that I learned about image scaling, resolution, and vector design. To date, I’ve sold 190 stickers and 8 buttons. You’d think that is a lot of money, but I don’t make much in commissions.

Still, it was nice to have little $20 payouts from Redbubble every few months.

Redbubble artists are leaving in droves and I don’t blame them. I’m not closing my shop, but I can’t keep up with their greed and need to offset it in some way, which only adds to my side hustle struggle. That coffee money is coming to an end, and not only that, but my passive income is coming to an end. There’s currently $8.20 sitting in my account that Redbubble is holding hostage until I reach the $20 threshold. At this rate, come September, it’s going to take forever to even make $20. Redbubble’s new scheme for Standard and Premium tiers reeks of a scam at this point…. artist income no more!

🌸 My Redbubble Shop: @sereneluna 🌸

I left that message for anyone who stumbles upon my shop to warn them about what’s actually going on. I doubt it will be enough to bring about change, but it did force me to re-evaluate where I should put my time and energy. I mostly post my thoughts on Twitter/𝕏 (@serene_hilz) because it helps me with my scattered #ADD thoughts. Perhaps, it’s time to share my thoughts with you guys through long-form content, which ironically helps me manage my ADD (the one without the hyperactivity). You can also find me on Bluesky if Twitter/𝕏 isn’t your thing (@sereneluna.bsky.social) but DMs are deactivated on Bluesky.

Grateful for You, Always ❤️

I’m not giving up on my Redbubble shop entirely, but I’m pivoting to blogging to keep my creative block at bay while I search for a new side hustle. By the way, I started Ko-fi crowdfunding to fuel my caffeine addiction, so if you want to support me ($5 CAD or $3.50 USD is just a suggestion), I’d be forever grateful (link below ↓). The money will go toward keeping this blog alive—blogging ain’t cheap, folks!

If you can donate to help me improve this site, I would be really grateful! (◡‿◡✿)

I’m grateful for you, my readers and subscribers, for sticking around despite my silence. The sound of silence is uncomfortable, isn’t it? (cue the crickets….) Despite being MIA for months, this blog still manages to get organic traffic, which was another reason why I upgraded my WordPress Plan yet again. Like all of my hobbies, this one might not last because blogging burnout is real, but I see potential and hopefully, the start of something beautiful. 🐇💕

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

The Offbeat Path to Peace: Unconventional Ways to Tend to Your Mental Health

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Background: This month, my friend Davis shared a new blog post for www.sereneluna.net. You might recall his previous guest contributions. Below ↓ I’ve linked all his past posts for easy access. If you’re curious or want a refresher on his insights about personal growth and development, you can find them here:

1️⃣ Unmasking Your True Potential to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
2️⃣ 10 Self-Improvement Habits to Make You Happier
3️⃣ Having a Midlife Crisis? Here are 5 Changes You Can Make to Overcome It
4️⃣ 6 Strategies to Boost Your Confidence

Disclaimer: Davis runs a blog called https://businessisfun.net that I highly recommend you check out and follow him if you haven’t done so already. Since Davis wrote the following guest post, I cannot take credit for it. While you are here, I would love to hear your thoughts about this article. Let’s get started, shall we?

Image via Freepik

It’s easy to get stuck in the same mental health advice loop: meditate, journal, drink more water, get eight hours of sleep. All helpful, sure—but what happens when those tools stop working? Or when they don’t click with you to begin with? Everyone’s brain has its own flavor, and sometimes, feeling better requires coloring outside the lines. So instead of repeating the same mental health script, let’s talk about some under-the-radar methods that might actually light you up.

A Practical Guide to Finding Inner Peace

1. Build Something Bad on Purpose. Perfectionism has a way of masquerading as productivity, but it’s often just a bully in your brain wearing a tie. One way to push back? Make something intentionally terrible. Write a god-awful poem, draw the world’s ugliest self-portrait, build a cardboard robot that barely stands up. The point is to disarm that inner critic by showing yourself it’s safe to fail—and to have fun doing it. When you practice letting go of the outcome, you’ll be surprised how much space opens up inside your mind.

2. Hang Out With an Unrelated Elder. There’s something wildly grounding about spending time with someone who’s lived through decades of life that you haven’t. Especially if they’re not family. They come with fewer emotional landmines and usually a good story or two. Whether it’s through a volunteer program or just striking up conversation at the same coffee shop every week, this kind of relationship resets your priorities in the best way. Plus, you get wisdom without the lecture tone.

3. Stay in the Present. Mindfulness isn’t just about deep breathing or sitting cross-legged in silence—it’s about paying attention on purpose, even when your thoughts are loud and messy. When you’re grounded in the now, you’re less likely to spiral into regrets about the past or anxieties about the future. It helps you notice the small good things—the sound of your neighbor’s laugh, the sun slanting across your floor, the taste of your first sip of coffee. By embracing the present moment without judgment, you create space for a more positive and balanced mindset.

4. Put Your Hands in Actual Dirt. Look, you can read a hundred articles about how gardening helps with anxiety, but it’s not just about the plants—it’s about the grime. There’s something deeply recalibrating about plunging your hands into the earth. It doesn’t have to be a full garden. Even a little patch of herbs in a pot can connect you to something older than worry. When your mind feels like static, dirt reminds you you’re a living thing.

5. Invent a Personal Ceremony. Rituals don’t need to be spiritual or dramatic to be meaningful. Sometimes your brain just wants a sign that things are moving forward. You could write down something you’re done with, fold it up, and burn it in a safe place. Or take a “transition walk” every time you finish a tough task. The key is consistency and intention—doing the same thing in the same way to mark shifts, even tiny ones. Over time, it helps your mind organize chaos into something with shape.

6. Get Obsessed with a Hyper-Niche Topic. Mental health thrives when curiosity takes the wheel. Deep-diving into something super specific—like traditional Norwegian sweater patterns or 1970s underground punk zines—can be surprisingly healing. It gives your brain a break from you and your thoughts, which is a gift. You don’t need to turn it into a side hustle or share it with anyone. The joy is in having something that’s just yours, untouched by algorithms or opinions.

7. Rent a Weird Airbnb in Your Own City. You don’t have to travel across the globe to shake your brain out of a slump. Book the strangest Airbnb within 30 minutes of your home—a yurt, a converted bus, a room with 18 lava lamps—and go there with no expectations. The goal isn’t luxury. It’s novelty. A change of scenery, even for one night, can jolt your senses in the best way and make your inner world feel less stale.

8. Host a “No-Small-Talk” Dinner. Surface-level conversation is exhausting when you’re already mentally taxed. So flip the script. Invite a couple of people over and have a rule: no small talk. Come prepared with big, weird, or deep questions and see what happens. Even if it gets awkward, it’ll be real, and your brain will thank you for bypassing the usual social autopilot. Connection is more healing when it’s not wrapped in “How’s work?”

Improving your mental health doesn’t always mean applying cookie-cutter solutions to your one-of-a-kind experience. You don’t have to vibe with meditation apps or force yourself into gratitude journals if they don’t click. What matters most is that you find what feels right for you—even if it looks strange from the outside. Especially if it looks strange from the outside. Sometimes, mental clarity comes from stepping off the obvious path and walking straight into the peculiar. That’s where your mind gets to play, to stretch, and to heal—not by following a blueprint, but by building your own.

If you’ve enjoyed this article and would like to read more posts from this blogger, you can visit their website at https://businessisfun.net. Finally, if you learned something new from this blog post, feel free to join the conversation by leaving a comment below ↓ Interested in writing a guest post for www.sereneluna.net? If you would like to write a guest post, please email me your idea by filling out this form.

Thanks for stopping by!

100 Self-Reflective Prompts | Part 2 of 6

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👉But First, Some Housekeeping.

This is a continuation of Part 1 of 6. I’m sorry for taking so long to create Part 2 of 6 and I might have taken on more than I can handle 🙈 I haven’t touched my laptop in a few weeks, and since I write and edit all my blog posts on it, that’s been a huge barrier preventing me from blogging. I don’t like blogging from the main computer, and using my phone to write isn’t my preference either. My laptop only gets used if it’s sitting on the dining room table—nowhere else. I attempted to set up a workspace upstairs, but it’s too cold and unwelcoming up there.

Background: I’m not telling anyone to participate, but I invite you to join the conversation and share your insights. Shoutout to @Coolbeans4 who gave me a Pingback and tagged me in a blog post! I appreciate the Pingbacks and tags, especially for anyone who decides to do this challenge. I’d love to read your answers! I’ve divided the 100 questions into six blog posts, each focusing on different themes to encourage meaningful discussions. My answers reflect my personal experiences, which vary for each individual.

100 Self-Reflective Prompts: Q17 – 33

17. What kind of person do you want to be known for? I want to be known as a kind soul and a person who lives with integrity, someone who consistently demonstrates compassion and empathy towards others. I aspire to be remembered as someone who not only stands by their principles but also uplifts those around them through acts of kindness, understanding, and support. 😊💕

18. Who inspires you the most? How would you describe their character traits? I draw inspiration from multiple individuals. What these people share is a knack for influencing others authentically. They’re bold in voicing their thoughts, unafraid to stand out, and they frequently hold views that go against the grain—views that, more often than not, turn out to be true.

19. What builds up your confidence? What deflates your confidence? My confidence grows when I’m at a healthy weight where I feel good, avoiding the discomfort of being overweight (tight clothes are the worst), and sticking to my own values and principles—like my unique approach to diet. On the flip side, my confidence takes a hit when people raise their voices at me, put me down, or act rudely right to my face, whether online or offline. Rudeness, no matter the medium, stings and drags me down.

20. Who supports you in your life regardless of what happens? My family stands by me through thick and thin. My husband may not fully get me and I don’t expect him to, but he’s always by my side. My parents are usually supportive, even if they don’t completely understand me either. I used to lean on online friends for encouragement, but lately, I’ve been finding answers in communities and forums instead. I’ve also got a dear friend back home who’s there for me. She’s the one who really knows everything I’m navigating personally right now.

21. What qualities are you drawn to in other people? Are they healthy or unhealthy? Alright, this might come off as a bit shallow, but this is my blog so anything goes. I’m naturally drawn toward people who radiate confidence and have a beauty that’s both internal and external. I’m attracted to those who are self-assured and have a clear sense of direction in life. I admire people who are born teachers—those who can guide a group and sway a crowd effortlessly, for the greater good. Fame doesn’t matter much to me; it’s more about their character and the values they uphold.

22. What makes you feel the most like yourself? I feel most authentic when I can freely express myself and share my passions with others without restraint. My interests—like gaming, anime, nutrition, and nutraceutical sciences (NANS)—might come off as quirky to many. I’m happiest when I’m with people who get me, whether we’re digging into the science of health and wellness or enjoying games like Infinity Nikki. Idk about you but I’m looking forward to playing InZOI on Steam. I’m hoping to get the game sometime in April.

23. What makes you so happy you lose track of time? I often get lost in my passions, especially when I’m digging into research and find myself spiraling down a rabbit hole. Time seems to vanish, especially when I’m locked in on something that captivates me. Recently, I’ve poured all my spare time into Infinity Nikki, but now that I’m caught up, there’s not much left to do in the game at the moment.

24. What could you give a TED Talk on if you were asked to present tomorrow? If I had to give a TED Talk, I’d probably speak on optimizing clipart and vector designs—something I feel pretty solid about. Nutrition? Not so much. I’m still deep in the research phase and wouldn’t call myself an expert by any stretch.

25. When do you feel most alive? When I’m awake.

26. What qualities do you possess that you dislike about yourself? Honestly, I can get a little too caught up in trying to nail every detail, perfectionism creeps in. It’s a drag when it slows me down or makes me second-guess myself. Also, I’ve got a tendency to over-explain things sometimes, which might come off as long-winded when I’m just trying to be clear.

27. What qualities do you look for in a friend or partner? Essentially the opposite of what I’ve experienced with past friends and partners. I’ve faced plenty of inconsistency, untrustworthiness, and closed-mindedness, so I’d seek someone who comes across as reliable and sincere, even if that’s tricky to spot, while also being receptive and truly invested in our friendship.

28. How do you present yourself in relationships? I think I’m someone who shows up with a lot of heart, aiming to be steady and real for the other person. I try to listen and understand where they’re coming from, even if I don’t always get it perfect. I’m big on being open and keeping things honest, though I can sometimes overthink what I bring to the table or how I’m coming across. I’d say I’m supportive and willing to put in the effort, but I also value having my own space to recharge.

29. What drives you internally? I am internally driven by curiosity and the search for truth.

30. What habits that your parents/guardians process that you see in yourself today? I’m not sure if I understand the question. Are you asking about the habits my parents possess that I see in myself, or are you asking about the habits my parents see in me that I also recognize in myself?

31. What is your personal elevator pitch? (How do you Introduce yourself? Hi [insert name]. My name is Hilary. I try to be funny to lighten the mood—some people may even find me hilarious.

32. What does your space say about you? What do you want to change? I’m unclear on the question—are we referring to my physical or personal surroundings, or my online footprint? My physical space looks like it belongs to someone with ADD. I’m always misplacing stuff, and no matter how much I tidy or declutter, it never feels orderly. I avoid collecting things since that just fuels the chaos I call my “space.”

33. Do other people’s opinions impact your life on a daily basis? I would say it is a mix of yes and no. Their words hang around and drag me down daily, but in the big picture, I live on my own terms and don’t give s*** about their opinions of me. Only I know the truth about myself—not them.

If you’ve completed Part 2 of this series, congratulations! There are only 4 more blog posts like this to go! 😆 Writing this took ages since I was nowhere near my laptop and absolutely despise drafting posts on my phone. Anyways, feel free to leave your thoughts and/or feedback in the comments section below ↓

P.S. Please follow me on Twitter/𝕏 (@serene_hilz) if you aren’t already, as I frequently share insights, updates, and engaging content related to my latest interests. DMs are open if you follow me there. You can also find me on Bluesky if Twitter/𝕏 isn’t your thing (@sereneluna.bsky.social) but DMs are deactivated on Bluesky.

Image generated using AI (I’ll add more of these to future posts if you want me to) ✨

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

100 Self-Reflective Prompts

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Background: I’m not tagging anyone in this post, but I invite you to join the conversation and share your insights. If you write a similar blog post with the following prompts, please tag me your blog post. I’d love to read your answers! I’ve divided the 100 questions into six blog posts, each focusing on different themes to encourage meaningful discussions. My answers reflect my personal experiences, which vary for each individual.

100 Self-Reflective Prompts: Part 1 of 6

1. How do you feel you presented yourself to the world today? I am mostly content with what I have accomplished in my life so far, but I have no desire to become famous or create change in the world. Have I met society’s standards for how a 33-year-old should show up in the world? I would say yes.

2. How do you feel you treated others this week? I don’t usually talk to people unless it’s online or I’m at work. It’s just an ordinary week. I mostly interact with my family. Honestly, I was cranky this week and wasn’t the friendliest person to be around.

5. What is bringing you meaning to life currently? My family is my top priority, and my job comes second. I work casually, which suits me best at this time in my life. I want to find a sustainable and enjoyable side hustle to bring more meaning to my life and give me a reason to get out of bed in the morning.

4. What 3 words would you use to describe yourself? Introspective, Introvert, Impatient.

5. How would you describe myself in 10 words or fewer? Creative, intellectual, blogger, strong-willed, hates being cold, loves animals.

6. How would/does isolation impact you? Too much isolation from others makes me uncomfortable. I need some interaction. However, isolation doesn’t seem to affect me as negatively as it does extroverted people.

7. Do you need people around you to feel happy? For my mental health, yes. I have my husband and 2 kids.

8. What do you feel your purpose is in the world? My purpose is to serve others and make their lives a little better.

9. How do you want others to feel about you? Depends. I’ve had people call me fake. I’ve had people call me a b**** and a hypocrite. These are the same people who have never met me in person yet think they know me because I’m open when conversing with others. Superficial conversations are usually a waste of time.

10. What problems do you have in life currently? How can you work to resolve them? I am dissatisfied with my country and the incompetent federal government. There’s so much corruption, and I worry about the economy. Yes, I have a job, but nothing is ever guaranteed in life. I want to leave Canada, but our kids are happy here, and it’s hard to just pack up and move. We are figuring out which state we will move to.

11. What makes you feel excited to wake up every morning? A hot beverage and perhaps a new podcast to listen to, or maybe a new YouTube video from a favorite YouTuber to watch, are little things to look forward to every day.

12. How would your younger self feel about you currently? I’m impressed and in disbelief. I never expected so much of myself when I was younger. I never thought I would get married at 24 and have two kids in my 20’s. Becoming an RN in my late 20’s seemed like an unachievable dream too.

13. What moments altered your life fundamentally? Hitting rock bottom financially, failing a university course, and becoming rebellious at 21 were pivotal moments that fundamentally altered my life.

14. If you had one year to do whatever you wanted, what would you do? I honestly don’t know. I’d like to win the lottery, but I don’t think that’s even an option. Maybe travel the world? As long as I have no obligations weighing me down.

15. What would you consider to be “your element”? Um, my element is fire🔥because I was born in August. I don’t think that’s what this question is asking though.

16. How does life look compared to what you expected it to look like? Well, I thought I would still be living with my parents in my 30s. Luckily, I was able to move out at 23 and haven’t had to move back in with them yet! I moved across the country and live in a different province. So, I guess my life looks very different from what I thought it would.

If you’ve completed Part 1 of this series, congratulations! There are only five more blog posts to come! 😆 Moving forward, I need to focus on writing instead of just thinking about it. I started this to help me break free from my rut and stop scrolling through social media. Feel free to leave your thoughts and/or feedback in the comments section below ↓

P.S. Please follow me on Twitter/𝕏 (@serene_hilz) if you aren’t already, as I frequently share insights, updates, and engaging content related to my latest projects and interests. DMs are open if you follow me there. You can also find me on Bluesky if Twitter/𝕏 isn’t your thing (@sereneluna.bsky.social) but I deactivated DMs.

Image generated using AI (I’ll add more of these to future posts if you want me to) ✨

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

great-vibes.regular (1)

About that December 2024 Recap….

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Hi everyone! I am coming out of hibernation and opened WordPress on my laptop for the first time since December 2024. I realize how much I’ve missed connecting with all of you through my posts and updates. I’ve also missed leaving comments on your blog posts. Reading your blogs on a regular basis has been something I missed too. In case you missed my last blog post from December 2024, you can read it here. I never did update you on which goals I ended up accomplishing. Honestly, I don’t really remember the details because I didn’t write them down.

December Goals | Winter 2024

No Motivation for Anything

I am not proud of completely abandoning my blog. What you witnessed here was my last blog post that I had written. Yes, it dates back to my goals for December 2024. To summarize how December went, everyone in my immediate family got sick during Christmas break except me. Usually, my immune system is terrible, but for some reason, I didn’t get sick, so that remains a mystery. That being said, I was sick last week and spent this week recovering from a nasty head cold.🤷‍♀ ️

Rethinking My Game Plan

I recently discovered that a work colleague of mine is making good money with digital marketing. She was kind and told me what it’s about without gate keeping her strategy, but I don’t want to get into digital marketing. I also don’t want to actively use Instagram or TikTok to sell courses. However, this makes my #Redbubble side hustle feel more like a waste of time than ever before. My Redbubble earnings are peanuts compared to my colleague’s impressive 5-figure income from her side hustle. This realization also made me rethink my entire strategy. On top of everything, the algorithm on #Redbubble is punishing me for being inactive on their site. It would mean the world to me if you check out my little shop on there. I am 2 likes away from reaching 2,000 favorited items! ❤

🌸 My Redbubble Shop: @sereneluna 🌸


♡ You can browse all of my 108 designs here: http://shorturl.at/otvxQ

The CAD prices have changed due to recent inflation. Unfortunately, the inflation that we are all experiencing to some degree has impacted many small businesses and their pricing strategies. Thus, I had to offset the costs to maintain my profit margins. It was also necessary to justify continuing with this side hustle, because otherwise, what’s the point of doing it? I know that I am passionate about this side hustle and want to keep doing it. And the best part? It’s zero inventory so less clutter (except digital clutter) in my house. If I make zero sales by the end of the month, I’ll probably readjust the prices back to what they were before. I truly value my customers and want to keep my prices affordable.

Honestly, I think it’s more of an algorithm issue. It’s not as much of a price issue because visibility and reach often play a crucial role in sales performance. Right now, my prices are set to $2.04 CAD. The Canadian Dollar is so bad right now. This makes it difficult for me to sustain this hobby (time + effort) without making these adjustments. I am hopeful that as market conditions improve, I can revert to more competitive pricing.

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ FINAL THOUGHTS ♥

I know this is an unconventional blog post yet again. I want to explain why I haven’t been blogging lately. I’m feeling overwhelmed with everything in my life right now and I need to determine what I need to do to get my life in order and back on track. I’m also struggling with depression and anxiety, which makes it hard to find motivation. I often blame the long winters and lack of sunshine in Alberta, but I also hold myself accountable. Still, I’m trying to remain hopeful, even when I feel lost. My goal for this year is to create at least one digital product related to this blog, aimed at people who, like me, are struggling with mental health and trying to get their lives on track. Not only that, but I want to figure out how to market it, preferably in USD.

Do you struggle with everyday life? Do you feel completely lost like I do? Do you feel scatterbrained with no clear path? Feel free to leave a comment below ↓ I would be grateful if you followed me on Twitter/𝕏 (@serene_hilz). This is, of course, if you aren’t already a follower. It is harder than ever to grow on that platform. I really enjoy using it to connect with like-minded bloggers.

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

December Goals | Winter 2024

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Hello everyone! Do you still remember me? It feels like it’s been a lifetime since I last shared my goals with you. I promised myself I’d write this post for December 2024, but here we are, on the 18th, and I’m just catching up with how fleeting time has become. I’m honestly shocked and a little heartbroken that Christmas is nearly upon us. There’s this tug-of-war in my heart; I’m excited for the joy of the season, yet so sad because every Christmas marks another year gone, another year older, and I’m not ready to face that reality. It’s like my biological clock is racing, and I can’t keep up.

Rebecca at her Christmas concert 😊

My daughter’s been ill this whole week, so I’ve had very little sleep. Not much has changed goal-wise since my last update, except I’ve completely given up on dieting. Surprisingly, ditching dieting altogether works better for me – my appetite naturally decreases when I eat freely. I’ve decided against fasting though; just thinking about it makes my stomach growl.

Ⓒⓗⓡⓘⓢⓣⓜⓐⓢ ⓘⓢ Ⓒⓞⓜⓘⓝⓖ

Image generated using AI ✨

Feeling Unsettled This Year

I don’t know about you, but I feel unsettled. Something seems off. Maybe its the looming future, not knowing what’s going to happen to us, and worrying too much about all the bad things happening in the world. I can’t help but worry about the Canadian dollar tanking, seeing it crashing day after day and me being angry at the Federal Government for screwing us hard-working Canadians over. I purposely leave politics out of this blog, but as of late I’ve been ranting more and more about politics to people who clearly don’t want to listen to me drag on about it. I am genuinely worried about the future and it keeps me up at night.

Also, I don’t know if my fellow American friends follow Canadian news (unlikely) but Canada Post was on strike for the last 4 weeks. They are finally off strike, but I have mail that’s still stuck in the states, which I ordered from a small business that specializes in beauty products. Also, I didn’t send out Christmas cards this year due to Canada Post being on strike, and now it seems pointless to send out Christmas cards. That being said, here is what the rest of the month looks like.

Image generated using AI (Please don’t use without asking first) ✨

DECEMBER GOALS 2024

Career Goals:

  • Plot availability for January 2025
  • Organize work backpack and drawer(s)
  • Add 2 new designs to #Redbubble
  • Promote winter designs on this blog and #Twitter

Personal Goals:

  • Publish 1-2 blog posts + monthly recap
  • Organize upstairs hallway closet
  • Organize downstairs bookshelf
  • Donate 1-2 big boxes of items to charity
  • Reschedule photos with Santa → December 24, 2024

Health Goals:

  • YMCA 2x per week minimum
  • Clear out the cupboards → Finish 3+ food items
  • Make honey lemon lozenges
  • Start using Stanley cup → start tracking water intake again

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ FINAL THOUGHTS ♥

I finally gave in and bought myself a Rose Quartz Stanley cup – not for Christmas, mind you, since I’m planning to start using it right away, but it’s still sitting in its original packaging, looking all brand new lol 😆 It was on sale for $38.00 CAD and who can resist a good deal? I’m really hoping this will be the push I need to get back into the habit of drinking water again. I’ve been plagued by headaches and migraines lately, and I’m not sure if it’s because I’m dehydrated or if it’s just the weather being totally rude.

On a brighter note, my husband bought me a cute pair of winter boots, which I’m absolutely thrilled about. They’re ideal for our chilly Canadian winters 🇨🇦 And my mom gave me a hoodie and some gourmet hot chocolate. I can’t wait to cocoon myself in that hoodie, savoring that rich hot chocolate, perhaps even using my new Stanley cup if I can get around to unpacking it. On another note, I treated myself to a new pair of Nike sneakers during Black Friday week. They might not be as cute as my previous ones – just plain black with white detailing – but my old sneakers with the hot pink laces have holes in them now. I’m still using them for treadmill workouts and not quite ready to say goodbye to them yet.

I am sad to let these old sneakers go 😔

(っ◔◡◔)っ FYI: If you’re not already following me on Twitter (@serene_hilz), you can get real-time updates [and rants] about my day-to-day life there. I purchased the Premium subscription to gain access to Grok 2.0, which makes the subscription completely worthwhile.

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

Should I Change my Blogging Style?

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In the blogging world, there’s a constant struggle between creating high-quality content and posting consistently so readers remember you. Recently, I’ve been dealing with this challenge. I usually take great care when crafting each blog post. I meticulously refine every sentence. I make sure that everything is perfect down to the last detail. Still, I’ve realized that I need to be more relaxed in my approach. I also need to be more spontaneous. Some bloggers easily share their thoughts as they come. They embrace imperfection and authenticity. They do not worry too much about details like I do. This contrasts sharply with my perfectionist tendencies, where every comma and phrase must feel just right before I hit “publish.” If you’re anything like me, then keep reading.

••◦ ❈ ◦••

Like a diary but not like a diary 📖

Blogging like it was someone’s open-book diary has always irritated me and it still does to this day. Still, you’ve got to admire bloggers who have a total disregard for perfectionism. The lack of polish, the disregard for aesthetic perfection, and the casualness of their content seemed, frankly, unprofessional to me. Yet, as time passed, I found myself envying their freedom. They post at odd hours. They use stock photos from the internet. Sometimes, they don’t use any photos at all. Their posts can range from a few lines to lengthy rants on controversial topics like politics. God forbid if you disagree with them. They do all of this with an audacity that I secretly admire.

Image generated using AI ✨💫

This brings me to a pivotal question for my blog:

Should I adopt this approach? There’s a certain allure to the idea of blogging more spontaneously, from the heart, without overthinking every detail. These bloggers, with their unfiltered posts, seem to embody a raw honesty that resonates with readers. Ultimately, these bloggers aren’t just creating content; they’re sharing their lives, unedited and unfiltered. I’m thinking about changing my blogging style. I want to shift from focusing on quality over quantity to emphasizing quantity over quality. This change will help me prevent long-term burnout.

What do you prefer? Would you enjoy more frequent, less polished posts that include off-the-cuff thoughts, diary-style entries, or even the occasional rant? Let’s be real. Most of my blog posts are about me whining about how hard life is. Or do you appreciate the current format? I spend considerable time on each post. That’s if I even bother posting it at all.

Image generated using AI ✨💫

Most importantly, I’m not aiming for my blog to be just another lifestyle and goal-oriented blog. There are countless blogs out there, many of which are deemed superior in terms of presentation or content depth. Yet, what sets a blog apart is its voice. It has a unique perspective and its ability to connect on a personal level. Additionally, the writer needs the ability to keep going. ✍️

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ FINAL THOUGHTS ♥

Do you want to see more spontaneous, less edited blog posts? Would a diary-style entry resonate with you more than a polished article? Do you value the effort I put into each blog post? Even if that means it takes me a century to publish something? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below ↓ I want to hear from you. 😊🤍

P.S. Please follow me on Twitter/𝕏 (@serene_hilz) if you aren’t already. You can learn more about AI image generation there, if that’s your thing. While some believe AI is bad, I view it as a valuable tool with endless possibilities~! I have an unpopular opinion, but that’s fine with me.

Thanks for stopping by! ♥