May 14, 2025

Dear Me, Happy Birthday. Today, I pause to honour the woman I’m becoming and the journey that is shaping me.   This past year has been filled with unexpected lessons, quiet victories, deep reflections, and meaningful growth. Turning a year older feels different—it feels like arriving at a more grounded, grateful version of myself.   A year ago, I was full of questions. I had just stepped into unfamiliar territory—starting a blog, searching for deeper meaning, and learning to balance my dreams with the everyday demands of family life. It wasn’t always easy.   There were days I felt overwhelmed, uncertain, and far from the vision I had for myself. Doubt crept in. But looking back now, I recognize how those quiet struggles were shaping me into someone stronger, more self-aware, and more at peace with my true self.   One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt is that growth rarely looks like we expect. It’s unpredictable. It often feels like you’re taking two steps back for every one step forward. But even in the chaos, there is beauty. Every stumble, pause, and small win played a part in becoming who I am today.   I’ve realised that personal growth isn’t just about hitting big milestones or chasing success. It’s about the subtle shifts—the moments I choose to show up for myself. It’s found in vulnerability, learning to extend grace to myself, and trusting that I am enough, right here and now.   This year, I’ve learnt to honour the small victories: Finding the courage to share my voice Nurturing honest, heartfelt connections Being kind to myself on the hard days These moments matter. They are the foundation of lasting growth. Real transformation happens not in giant leaps but in the quiet, consistent choices we make each day. If you ever feel like you’re falling behind or questioning your path, please remember this: you’re not alone. Growth isn’t linear. The journey twists and turns. It can feel slow, confusing, and even frustrating. But that doesn’t mean it’s not happening. Even the smallest, most uncertain steps are moving you forward. Your journey is unfolding in its own time, and that’s more than enough.   So today, I say thank you to myself: Thank you for showing up, even when it was hard. Thank you for embracing the mess and learning through the struggle. Thank you for being patient with who I’m becoming. And most of all, thank you for choosing to love yourself through it all.   As I step into this new year, I feel hopeful. Hopeful for the growth still ahead, the lessons waiting to unfold, and the opportunity to keep evolving into the woman I’m meant to be.   In this new year, I will continue to welcome my growth journey with open arms. I’ll remind myself that every day is a gift, and I don’t need to have it all figured out to keep moving forward.   If you’re reading this and walking through your journey, let me gently remind you: It’s okay to be in the messy middle, not to hold it all together. Growth can be slow and unglamorous, but that doesn’t mean it’s not real. Keep showing up. You’re becoming someone beautiful—even if you can’t fully see it yet.   With love, Cheta   I’d love to hear your story in the comments. What lessons are unfolding in your life right now? What small shifts are guiding your growth?   Let’s keep evolving—together. One honest, heartfelt moment at a time.