My Goals for 2026

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In the past, I’ve written about why New Year’s resolutions suck and why S.M.A.R.T. goals don’t in this blog post. Additionally, I was breaking everything down into monthly, bite-sized pieces, but it felt way too time-consuming and redundant. So, this year, I’m sticking to a straightforward yearly list. This list is in no particular order.

I’m also leaning into flexibility—if the last few years taught me anything, it’s that plans can change in a heartbeat. I’m leaving out the stuff I can’t control, like doctor visits, social worker paperwork, clinic back-and-forth, and all the travel and costs that come with embryo adoption. I’m praying that this will finally be our year. *Sigh* It’s been a long road, so I’m trying to stay grounded and just take things as they come. Let’s get started, shall we?

My 2026 Game Plan: The Full List

1. Be able to hoop in both directions with ease. I’m getting better with this and want to do this with and without shoes.

2. Hula hoop every day that I’m not working. I’ve actually been doing great with this so far, but I don’t want to jinx it! Basically, if I miss a day, I just do a double session on my next day off.

3. Upgrade my hula hoop to a fancy HDPE or a polypro hoop. My current basic HDPE one works fine, but it’s definitely not fancy. Also, I’ve realized how much I actually hate my first DIY weighted hoop—it weighs a ton! If you’re curious about what I’m talking about, you can check out The Hoopologie Guide.

Image source: Images are my own. Bringing the outdoors inside on cold days when I have to do an indoor workout.

4. Lose the excess post-pregnancy weight and winter weight. I still have about 25 lbs to go, and honestly, I’ve struggled to drop the baby weight after both pregnancies. At least I’m finally doing something about it this year!

5. Buy some new clothes for the Singapore trip. We’re going on a trip near the end of March, and I’m also hoping to fit back into some old favorites that are still a bit tight.

6. Fit into my jeans from 2018. This totally ties into my last goal. I’d be so happy if I could at least fit into these again!

7. Upload one blog post a week, or at least aim for 3–4 posts a month. I really want to be more consistent with this since it’s so easy to let blogging slide when life gets busy.

8. Goal to cash out again on Redbubble at least once in 2026. Actually, I already hit this goal yesterday! ✔️

Note: For every sticker sale, I make a teeny, tiny comission. 💵

9. Goal to cash out at least once on Medium. I’ve been stuck at $4.00, and the minimum payout is $10. I haven’t been very active lately, but I’d love to change that. If you use Medium too, please give me a follow—I follow back! @sereneluna

10. Learn to be happy without spending money.  I want to stop online shopping just because I’m bored or trying to fill a void. I actually stopped collecting things for this exact reason. I know I have a bad Temu habit—especially at 2:00 AM—but I’m trying to be way more mindful about it.

11. Use up my makeup and hair products before buying more. I’m planning to finish what I’ve got first and just learn to manage with what’s already in my stash. Honestly, I just have way too much stuff right now.

12. Take a “spiritual enlightenment” trip once a month. I’m recording these dates in my calendar because I want to stay consistent. I started off strong in October 2025, but honestly, it’s gotten way harder with the kids around. I really need a day of zero responsibilities and have someone around to make these “solo” therapy sessions work.

ᴛʜᴇ ᴊᴏᴜʀɴᴇʏ ꜱᴏ ꜰᴀʀ:

🍄 Oct 8, 2025
🍄 Oct 20, 2025
🍄 Oct 31, 2025
🍄 Dec 11, 2025
🍄 Jan 15, 2026
🍄 Feb (Pending…) ✨

13. Make more of my own capsules for microdosing. I plan on using the specific varieties I have on hand—I just need to set aside a day to actually blend and prep them. I’ve already got my empty #00 and #0 gel caps ready to go. Years ago, I made “weight loss” supplements from Pinterest using various spices from my kitchen, so I’m definitely no stranger to making my own supplements. 😝💊

Image made using AI: How AI envisions this mantra. 💕

14. Learn to be happy with drinking water. Instead of soda water, tea etc. because it’s getting expensive, I want to buy some lemons or limes to flavor water. Even lemons and limes are expensive, but I buy 1 at a time and they last a long time. 🍋💦

15. Replace my broken Nalgene water bottle. If not, I guess I’ll have to get used to using the Stanley cup I already have. TBH, I still prefer the Nalgene.

16. Finish using the Cirkl cartridges and don’t buy any more. I haven’t touched them in months and honestly don’t care for the brand—it’s a very overrated water bottle, in my opinion.

17. Finish the art projects I have already started.  I’m currently working on the diamond painting feathers. Just to clarify, I’m not doing these for Becca; she actually has the same diamond feather set that I do!

Image source: Images are my own. I turned the feathers into tree ornaments.

18. Start treating my body better. I want to go to bed at a decent time, get enough sleep, and drink plenty of water. I also want to read more books and journal more often. It’s all about the fundamentals, yenno?

19. Finish my lucky paper star jars.  I’ve done one out of six so far. Once I’m through with those last two diamond painting feathers, I can move on to the paper stars for teacher gifts. It’ll probably take me several months to finish them all! ⭐️

20. Finish reading 12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson. I still haven’t finished it because reading always makes me so sleepy. It’s definitely a goal to finally finish reading the book this year.

21. Finish transferring my iPhone photos to the computer and then delete them. I have a hard time deleting photos, but I need to make more storage space. I have a ton of digital clutter that needs to be dealt with. 👩‍💻

22. Organize my work binder and catch up on my reflections and work goals. These are due by September 30, 2026, so I have some time to get everything in order.

23. Get a pedicure this summer, maybe for my birthday. I recently got one and really liked it. I guess this is more of a bucket list goal, but I’m counting it!

24. Learn how to braid hair. I’m terrible at it, but I really wish I could learn. Or maybe my husband can learn how to braid it for me instead.

👉Images are my own. Here are a couple of rare selfies of me! 💁‍♀️

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ FINAL THOUGHTS

I think my goals for 2026 are quite reasonable and realistic. Instead of overcomplicating things, I’ve focused on what I can actually handle while leaving room for the unexpected. Having this list written down feels like a great way to keep myself accountable, and I’m looking forward to seeing how much I can check off by the end of the year.

Image source: Image is my own. Hello old friend.

Do we share any similar goals? What are your goals for 2026? Do you believe in New Year’s resolutions, or do you think they’re a waste of time too? Let me know in the comments section below ↓ I’ll do my best to reply to everyone.

If you enjoy my work, consider supporting me. 🌸☕💕

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

Now She Knows

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Background: This is a poem I wrote a couple of weeks ago but didn’t get around to posting until now. It is based on a true story involving my mom, who doesn’t quite understand it—but at least now she knows.

Writing this was an uplifting experience; it allowed me to express emotions that had been bubbling beneath the surface for far too long. Letting these words out feels like a massive weight lifted. It’s a relief to finally be seen, and even though my mom is still catching up, the air between us feels clearer. I’m just excited to see how our relationship evolves now that I’m standing in my own truth. 🙌

If this poem feels like a beautiful mystery, that’s because it is. 🌸 I’m not ready to fully dive into the specifics of my lifestyle shift and the incredible clarity it’s brought me, but I wanted to leave a few Easter eggs for those who resonate with the vibe. Consider this a small glimpse into a much bigger story. *wink* 🍄🌱

P.S. You can read all of my other poems and parodies here. Some still need to be rewritten and re-uploaded. I hope that you enjoy my poetry as much as I enjoyed writing it! (◡‿◡✿)

If you enjoy my work, consider supporting me. 🌸☕💕

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

A Bad Day Made Worse

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Have you ever had a tough day when everything seems to go wrong? It can feel overwhelming, like a dark cloud hanging over you. Little annoyances, like spilling coffee or missing the bus, combined with bigger issues like work stress, can lead to frustration and despair. It’s easy to forget the good moments, but it’s important to remember that even in chaos, there is hope for better days ahead. Here’s how I’ve been coping, or at least trying to cope with stress.

A Stressful Monday Morning

Monday morning started with a sharp, annoying pain in my back. You know, the kind that happens when you know you slept funny, so your body punishes you the next day. My back felt all twisted like a pretzel, and I found myself hobbling down the stairs like an old lady with a bad back. It’s crazy how much we take a good spine for granted until it decides to quit on us. Most of the day was spent with excruciating back pain. Luckily, I felt much better by Tuesday evening.

Part of my daily survival ritual involves spending some time in nature, by walking to the nearest park or Tim Hortons down the street. I don’t buy steeped tea every day, but I still try to make it a habit to go outside. Despite my back pain, I desperately need that steaming cup of caffeine to clear the chaotic mental chatter in my head.

(っ◔__◔)っ ♥ P.S. Let’s ignore the fact that I recently ranted about the ridiculous inflation and the annoyances I have with Tim’s. Let’s just ignore all of that because karma got me good. 🙄

I was already halfway there when my husband broke the news to me. He mentioned that my go-to spot was closed, but I didn’t want to believe it. I pulled up the info online, and my heart sank: “Closed until February 26, 2026.” 

Who even knows if they will actually reopen? There are rumors going around that their contract with 7-Eleven ended, and this uncertainty makes it feel so much worse. Honestly, this feels like a cruel joke from the universe, especially since I just wrote a blog post called Price Shock: Enough is Enough. It’s like the universe read my blog post and said,

“Oh, you think things are tough? Let’s take away the one thing that brought you joy. Sucks to be you.” 💔

Here in Calgary, I live in the type of climate that makes you regret living in Canada. Standing in that parking lot, shivering, annoyed, and caffeine-deprived, I felt like the universe was sending me a very loud message to go back to bed and stay there, wrapped in my warm blankets like a caterpillar in a cocoon, far removed from the harshness of the cold. The biting wind seemed to mock my every attempt to stay warm as I hugged my arms tightly to my chest, wishing for just a little warmth to seep back into my already chilled bones. At this point, I was half-expecting a penguin to waddle past me and offer some pity, sympathy, or nod of acceptance. 🐧

•☽────✧˖°˖☆˖°˖✧────☾•

A Stressful Monday Afternoon

I could not catch a break on Monday. The “bad” became way “worse” the moment I opened my laptop. As many of you know, I poured my heart into my sticker designs. It was a creative outlet that kept me grounded, even when life felt heavy. My most popular rainbow unicorn “caticorn” cat design was staring back at me on a marketplace that felt oh so familiar, but from a seller I had never seen before.

It was a 3rd party seller based in China. They hadn’t just “borrowed” the idea; they had ripped the high-res file, turned it into a sticker, and sold it for a fraction of the price. Their product photos were remotely similar, with water droplets as their “watermark” (Oh, the audacity!) but still, it was MY digital art design! And I am livid! (｡•̀ ⤙ •́ ｡ꐦ) !!!

ɪ ʀᴇɢʀᴇᴛ ꜱʜᴏᴘᴘɪɴɢ ᴏɴ ᴛᴇᴍᴜ. ɴᴏᴛ ᴀʟʟ ꜱᴇʟʟᴇʀꜱ ᴄᴀɴ ʙᴇ ᴛʀᴜꜱᴛᴇᴅ. ɪ’ᴍ ᴜᴘꜱᴇᴛ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴅᴇꜱɪɢɴꜱ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ᴄᴏᴘɪᴇᴅ. ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴛᴏᴏᴋ ᴍʏ ʙᴇꜱᴛ ᴅᴇꜱɪɢɴ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ʜᴀᴠᴇɴ’ᴛ ᴍᴀᴅᴇ ᴀɴʏ ꜱᴀʟᴇꜱ ɪɴ ᴀ ʟᴏɴɢ ᴛɪᴍᴇ.

The most frustrating part? Despite Redbubble offering protection by allowing us to add a watermark, it wasn’t enough to stop the Temu thief from copying the design anyway. The irony is that I often shop on sites like Temu, and you can read my recent blog post here. This feels like the universe’s big “FU” to me for even trying to compete with this conglomerate monster.

Link to MY Shop: 🌸@sereneluna 🌸

Collection of cute stickers featuring cats and animals in various themes, including a smiling octopus, unicorn cat, and seasonal designs like Halloween and Canada Day.
Image Source: My Redbubble shop features a colorful collection of cute cat and animal stickers. There’s 116 designs to choose from! ⭐💫

Do You Believe in Karma?

I believe in karma—the mirror reflection of what you project into the universe often has a way of creeping into your life and throwing that energy right back at you when you least expect it, including the stuff that you don’t want. Not only that, but you can’t steal someone else’s ethereal energy and creativity, no matter how hard you try to copy someone else, because they’ll always be a few steps ahead of you in the game.

The universe has a way of balancing this energy, including the energy we don’t actually want, thus reminding us that authenticity and hard work are the true pathways to lasting success. So, even though the situation feels devastating right now, I hold onto the belief that integrity will prevail in the long run, revealing the true character of these thieves and shady people who try to take shortcuts at the expense of others.

•☽────✧˖°˖☆˖°˖✧────☾•

Searching for Mental Clarity & Meaning

When the mental fog gets this thick and the physical pain becomes so loud that you can’t ignore it, I find myself craving a total “hard reset” for my brain. These days, I often feel the need to disengage from the external world and instead, turn inward on myself. I did a “hard reset” just last week, but it doesn’t seem to have been enough to carry me through this latest avalanche of deregulation, so I think I need to go back to that magical place again. I’m feeling tempted to revisit that deep, earthy, ethereal experience—the kind that lets the brain’s default mode network take a backseat so I can view life from a new, fresh perspective through a world of dreamlike wonder.

Image: A vibrant, fantasy landscape, evoking a sense of wonder and escape into nature. 🍄🌿✌️💕
Image: A serene landscape with Nikki on a swing overlooking a tranquil lake during sunset, capturing a moment of peaceful solitude amidst the chaos of life.

•☽────✧˖°˖☆˖°˖✧────☾•

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ FINAL THOUGHTS

Often, it’s easier to be hard on ourselves, so we end up attracting even more unwanted things into our lives, whether we’re conscious of it or not. But if I’ve learned anything from blogging, it’s that we have to find a way to take back our own narrative. We have to be the ones to decide when the bad day, week, month, etc., stops being bad. I’m ready for the light to shine again. I’m ready to start showing up as the best version of myself, whatever that newer, weirder version of me happens to be. 🌿

♡ What about you? Do you ever have those days where nothing seems to go right? How do you handle it? Feel free to join the conversation below ↓ and I’ll do my best to reply to your comments within the next 24 hours.

♡ Enjoyed this post? Please consider donating to help me improve this site. I’ll send you a personal thank-you message to the email you used to send the coffee donation❣️

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

Another Day That Got Away

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Image Source: Uncropped AI image with whimsical, dreamlike energy 💫

Date: January 18, 2026

This morning I woke up with quiet hope. 🌿 The kind that tiptoes in, soft and earned, a fragile belief that today might nudge the needle forward, even just a whisper of movement.

Three small promises were on my To-Do list:

  • Respond to emails that have been lurking for weeks
  • Tame the dish mountain before it becomes folklore
  • Cardio for 30 minutes so my body remembers I care

I brewed tea — warm, fragrant, a tiny ritual of kindness, settled at the table feeling briefly capable.

Then the laziness arrived, silent as fog.

I read the same email three times, words dissolving like sugar in rain. Opened a motivation tab, closed it fast — the advice felt like someone scolding me from a brighter life.

I ate cake standing at the counter like a savage. 🍰 One thick slice for comfort, then another because the plate looked too empty without it. This girl was eating her feelings. At least cake is sweet and honest.

Afternoon light crept across the floor like it was trying to sneak out. I watched it go, didn’t chase.

“Five more minutes,” I told myself. Then ten. Then evening had arrived.

Now the house breathes quietly — fridge humming its lonely lullaby, thoughts settling like dust. Same hoodie. Same me. Same day that slipped through my fingers like sand.

But here’s the truth that has a name.

This feels like depression, because it is. ☹️ It’s not like a loud, roaring tidal wave. 🌊 — It’s the slow, lingering kind that turns brushing teeth into an Olympic event, making cake the safest friend in the room, and convinces you that tomorrow is someone else’s problem.

Still… I noticed.
I saw the hesitation, the excuses, the gentle self-betrayal. That observing is a crack of light, small but real. ✨ Tomorrow I don’t have to conquer the world.

Just choose one tiny thing.

One gentle, doable act and meet it with kindness, not brute force.

  • One email reply
  • One dish
  • One calm breath that isn’t met with guilt

That’s the only goal. Not to survive, but to reflect. That’s enough for tonight. Tomorrow waits for me, patient and opportunistic. 🙌

I’ll meet it halfway — probably with more tea,
And definitely with less hatred toward myself.

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ FINAL THOUGHTS

If your day looked anything like mine today, I see you. You’re not lazy. You’re not broken. You’re carrying something heavy that doesn’t always show up in photos or status updates. You’re still here.

Still trying, even when trying looks like resting. That matters more than any unchecked box on a To-Do list.

So breathe. 🧘‍♀️🌱
Rest if your body is begging for it. Have the cake if it helps (seriously, no guilt tonight). Then tomorrow, pick one small thing.

Do it like someone who’s allowed to be imperfect and still worthy of self-compassion.
— because you are. 🤍

Image Source: Cropped AI image with whimsical, dreamlike energy 💫

•☽────✧˖°˖☆˖°˖✧────☾•

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ P.S. If you enjoyed this blog post, consider supporting my writing with a small Ko-fi donation. Your support really keeps me motivated to create more content like this.  My writing can be a bit unpredictable and thought-provoking at times, so get ready for plenty more of that throughout 2026!

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Steady Minds, Everyday Lives: Practical Anxiety Support for People in Canada

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Background: Hey everyone! I hope you all had an awesome Christmas if you celebrate it like my family does, and here’s to a Happy New Year! My friend Davis shared a new blog post on www.sereneluna.net, and he’s been super patient waiting for me to get this up. You might remember his earlier guest posts. Below ↓ I’ve linked all of his past stuff for you to check out easily. If you’re curious or just wanna refresh your memory on his thoughts about personal growth and development, you can find them here:

1️⃣ 6 Strategies to Boost Your Confidence (July 2022)
2️⃣ Having a Midlife Crisis? Here are 5 Changes You Can Make to Overcome It (September 2022)
3️⃣ 10 Self-Improvement Habits to Make You Happier (October 2022)
4️⃣ Unmasking Your True Potential to Overcome Imposter Syndrome (July 2024)
5️⃣ The Offbeat Path to Peace: Unconventional Ways to Tend to Your Mental Health (April 2025) 

Disclaimer: Davis runs a blog called https://businessisfun.net that I highly recommend you check out and follow if you haven’t done so already. I should make an archive for him (I’m half-joking, but seriously, his list of guest posts is impressive!) 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 Pexels

Anxiety in Canada shows up everywhere — on the bus in Toronto, in a classroom in Calgary, in a kitchen in Halifax at 2 a.m. when your thoughts won’t shut off. It’s common, it’s treatable, and it doesn’t care whether you’re a student, parent, newcomer, or getting ready to retire. You don’t have to “tough it out” alone, and you don’t need a perfect wellness routine to feel better.

Key things to know in one glance

Anxiety is a normal stress response that becomes a problem when it’s intense, constant, or starts interfering with daily life. You can learn skills to calm your body, work with your thoughts, and ask for help sooner rather than later.

Common anxiety supports and when they help

Approach What it is in plain language When it tends to help most
Deep breathing & grounding exercisesSimple techniques to steady your body and focus on the presentDuring sudden waves of panic, before sleep, or in tense moments
Cognitive behavioural strategiesNoticing and questioning anxious thoughtsWhen your brain is stuck in worst-case scenarios
Physical activity & sleep habitsMoving regularly and keeping a consistent sleep routineWhen stress feels “wired and tired” all the time
Peer or family supportTalking to trusted people in your lifeWhen you feel alone, ashamed, or “too much” for others
Self-help toolsGuides, apps, and worksheets you use at your own paceWhen you want structure but not formal therapy yet
Professional treatmentSupport from a therapist, doctor, or mental health nurseWhen anxiety impacts work, school, parenting, or health

How Anxiety Shows Up for the Average Canadian

👉Here’s a quick, non-judgy look at how anxiety shows up:

  • Racing thoughts about money, family, or world events
  • Tight chest, “buzzing” body, or upset stomach with no clear medical cause
  • Avoiding emails, phone calls, or potential networking events because they feel overwhelming
  • Checking things repeatedly (locks, messages, work) for fear of missing something
  • Trouble falling asleep because your brain is replaying the entire day

Note: If you see yourself in that list, it doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means your nervous system is working overtime and needs support, not criticism.

When work and career worries drive your anxiety

For many people in Canada, worry ramps up around job security, career changes, or feeling stuck in a role that doesn’t fit. Turning that foggy fear into a concrete learning or training plan can bring a surprising sense of relief and control. Choosing a clear path to build new skills, switch industries, or qualify for different roles gives your mind something structured and hopeful to focus on.

If you’re drawn to technology or digital work, exploring a computer science degree online can be one way to transform “I’m behind” into “I’m building something.” For example, if you dream of a tech career, by working toward an online degree in computer science, you can build your skills in AI along with IT, programming, and computer science theory. Online degree programs make it easier to keep working while you study, so you can protect your income while moving toward a different future.

This kind of intentional learning doesn’t remove every anxious thought, but it does change the story: you’re no longer just worrying about your career — you’re actively shaping it.

Questions Canadians often ask about anxiety

  1. “Is what I’m feeling serious enough to count as anxiety?”

    If your worries feel hard to control, stick around most days, and are affecting your sleep, relationships, school, or work, it’s worth treating them as more than “just stress.” Anxiety problems are common and respond well to support and treatment.

  2. “Can self-help tools really make a difference?”

    Yes, especially when you use them consistently and combine them with other supports. Resources like worksheets, meditation apps, and online guides can teach you skills used in therapy, such as challenging anxious thoughts and gradually facing fears.

  3. “When should I talk to my doctor or a mental health professional?”

    Good times to reach out include: when anxiety has lasted for weeks or months, when you’re avoiding important parts of life because of fear, or when your coping habits (like alcohol, cannabis, or endless scrolling) are starting to cause problems of their own. A family doctor, nurse practitioner, or community clinic can help you explore options and referrals in your province.

  4. “What if I’m in crisis right now?”

    If you’re thinking about suicide or feel you can’t stay safe, you can call or text 9-8-8 anywhere in Canada, any time of day or night. You can also find crisis contacts through organizations like the Canadian Mental Health Association, which lists national and provincial help lines.

A small self-scan for tough days

👉You can use this quick check-in once a day or once a week:

☐ I did something (however small) to move my body today.
☐ I ate at least one meal that wasn’t just caffeine and snacks.
☐ I spent a few minutes away from my phone or laptop.
☐ I acknowledged how I was feeling instead of pretending I was “fine.”
☐ I connected with at least one person or community — in person, online, or by phone.
☐ I know who I’d reach out to if my anxiety suddenly got much worse.

Note: Even one or two checkmarks is a sign you’re actively caring for your mental health.

A Canadian resource worth bookmarking

If you’d like structured, evidence-based guidance you can use on your own schedule, Anxiety Canada offers free information, self-help plans, and tools designed specifically for children, youth, and adults across the country. Their website includes a “My Anxiety Plan,” downloadable guides, and links to the MindShift CBT app, which teaches coping skills based on cognitive behavioural therapy.

Bringing it all together

Anxiety may be loud, but it isn’t the final word on who you are or what your life in Canada can look like. Small, repeatable actions — breathing, moving, connecting, learning, asking for help — slowly train your nervous system to feel safer. Over time, you build resilience: the ability to bend without breaking when life is hard. And if today feels especially heavy, remember you don’t have to carry it alone; support is closer and more available than it often seems.

🍁AI generated image: Finding practical anxiety support and inner peace in Canada.🍁

I really appreciate that Davis curated this blog post for Canadians! Growing up here and moving between provinces three times, I’ve seen how some places can be colder or more expensive, but no matter where you are, each place has its own quirks—especially when it comes to dealing with anxiety and everyday stress. The truth is, anxiety affects all of us, no matter where we live. It’s great to have resources like Anxiety Canada and the Canadian Mental Health Association to help us navigate our system. A huge shoutout to Davis for reminding us that we’ve got the tools to bounce back right here at home!

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!

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.”

•• ━━━━━ ••●•• ━━━━━ ••

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!

•☽────✧˖°˖☆˖°˖✧────☾•

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.

•☽────✧˖°˖☆˖°˖✧────☾•

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.

•☽────✧˖°˖☆˖°˖✧────☾•

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.

•☽────✧˖°˖☆˖°˖✧────☾•

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 forway 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.

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