Hello Dear One,
I hope this finds you well. I’m in between where I was for Christmas (a seaside Scottish town) and where I’m going for New Year (Portugal). It’s easy to lose track of the days at this time of year and you may – or may not – have noticed that I missed last week’s letter.
I’d just held a glorious workshop which I poured time, thought and love into, and I’d just finished a novel. The draft of one at least. The next day I was floored. All I wanted to do was lie down and cuddle my dog, which I did instead of pushing. It’s possible to do that – to say no.
And, whenever I’m here I want to give you something real.
The end of the year can feel like a big one. Perhaps 2022 has been a struggle. Perhaps it was the year you realised your dreams. Perhaps you can’t quite remember what the last twelve months have held.
This is what I know:
You’ve done/been there/achieved way more than you think
You’ve grown and learnt more about yourself
You’re probably still giving yourself too much of a hard time
You don’t need to change anything about yourself. Really. Stop it.
One of my biggest lessons this year is that I don’t need to change myself. I can be all of me and love who I am. For several years now I’ve marked the end of the year with a special ritual, part of which is below.
Taking time to ground and look back is a beautiful way to honour yourself and feel good about moving forward. Make this cosy – light a candle, listen to soothing music, block out some time. Be really honest with yourself.
If you want the full process, or to be guided, you can still get the replay here.
For more on how to be self-compassionate, check out my previous letter – it doesn’t always come naturally.
And thanks for being here and being you. Whether you’ve read my letter, commented on a post, attended a workshop or followed me online I appreciate it. I feel it. Take really good care of yourself, whatever that means. And share your reflections on 2023 by leaving a comment or messaging me on Instagram.
I’ll see you in the New Year. If you feel called join me for a very special workshop on the 9th of January. It would be beautiful to start the year with you.
All love,
Jo x
Monday 9th January 2023 8 PM GMT
GMT Ready to get clear on what you want 2023 to be?
This two-hour session will give you space to define your dreams for the year, the goals that matter and how you'll achieve them.
Open to everyone – whether you journal regularly or haven't done so for years, all you need is a cosy, quiet space and a notebook.
Optional instrumental playlist provided + replay available if you can't make it live ✨