Made some major headway on the path to self-discovery recently. My birthday is on the horizon which usually sends me into a full-blown panic, except this year I’m actually quite happy with myself. After a lot of work, I’ve finally outgrown the insecurities and false narratives that were holding me back from my potential for so long.
Before this year, my life was wrapped around getting others to not only accept me but to adore me. I turned winning people over into a game, and as a competitive human being, it really started to take a toll on my mental health. My performative nature didn’t come with an off switch, which is probably why I’ve enjoyed self-isolation so much. The freedom to take the mask off and exist only for myself. My social skills may never recover but at least quarantine has given me some time to take a hard look at my life and reassess what matters to me.
Movie Recommendations
My coworkers used to roast me for never understanding their references so I’ve been on a mission to catch up on all of the movies I missed over the years. This week I watched Good Will Hunting (10/10), Green Book (10/10), and The Prestige (10/10). Can you believe it... me… a film buff? This week I’m going to work on making some headway in the documentary space.
The Good Stuff
Create and Cultivate is virtually hosting their Money Moves Summit on Saturday, May 2nd. Cop your $30 tickets so we can exchange notes.
I subscribed to Nina Agdal’s fitness channel on the Playbook app yesterday! It’s only $1 for a month trial so I figured why not.
Ramadan Mubarak! The Risala Foundation hosts a 30-minute Zoom session every night that I’ve been tuning into. I’m a sawaab chaser so click here for more details. What’s everyone watching to get into the Ramadan spirit? Suggestions welcome.
Thank me later. Here’s a list of games to play with friends while isolated. Who wants to have a trivia murder party this weekend?
Books Galore
I had a realization the other day that nothing is stopping me from adopting the traits I admire in others. Intelligence is something I value, which is why I’ve been spending more time reading books outside of my comfort zone. I’ve adopted a new strategy: 2 chapters a day of Sapiens, 48 Laws of Power, and The Body. I could never read them in one sitting (I would fall asleep) so breaking them up has been a game-changer.
In fiction news, I finished The Goldfinch after a year of intimidation caused by the sheer length of the novel. Surprisingly, it’s such a smooth read that you almost don’t want it to finish.
Finished The Last Book Party yesterday and would recommend it if you’re looking for a light beach (backyard) read.
I ordered a handful of books off Second Sale because I don’t believe in spending money. My books arrived in good condition + they offer free shipping.
Shopping Cart
Purchased this Apparis coat off ShopBop the other day because winter gear is super discounted right now.
I’ve been adding Macuna Pruriens (dopamine bean) + Bacopa (brain depolarizer) to my water each morning in a desperate attempt to improve my focus and memory.
3 scoops of Inulin powder a day keeps the hunger pains away. The best thing about inulin is that it’s flavorless and it dissolves easily in coffee, pancakes, smoothies, etc.
Lotus Foods makes healthy rice ramen! I tried out this ramen recipe last week and it was delicious. This week I’m going to attempt to make pad thai. Wish me luck, for I will need it.
Kween Co. granola butter has elevated my toppings game.
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