Hi…👋

If you happen to have been reading these posts consistently (if so, thanks!), then you may or may not have noticed that I did not write a weekly entry this past week for this first time in over a year (sorry about that if you were looking forward to one). In the midst of a move to a new home and concomitant overhauled daily routine for the time being, I did not prioritize taking the time to sit down and create something to share with you. The thought lingered in my mind throughout the week (“still have to do that”… “have to keep my streak going”…) and the action remained glaringly nestled in the overdue task list on my phone (titled “Thoughts Post”).

I had still planned to write a post for the week until a moment a few days ago when I gave myself the permission to simply not write one and let the streak end. While it can feel like the pressure to perform had been coming from some external judge, I noticed that it was all coming from me and that I had the full authority to say, “it’s okay to not write one,” and this felt rather caring for myself. So, for this week, I thought I would share this simple message with you, and maybe be a reminder that you have the authority to give yourself a break. Maybe let go of some streak that you maintain just for the sake of maintaining it, or relieve yourself of some high standard (maybe just for once, knowing you will resume, like I’m doing now), and just see what it feels like. For me, it felt like the release of some sort of guilt or maybe even shame likely related to a little Charlie who’s on a lifelong quest to become “good enough.” I am good enough Now. And, I believe, so are you.

How might you

give your

Self

a break?

***On a final note, I’ve added an option at the end of these blog posts for you to make a small contribution if you’d like. Please only do so if you feel moved to, and know that your donation goes directly toward helping me continue to provide affordable individual guidance as well as create new content, such as this blog, in the name of increased well-being and reduced psychological suffering. One particular project I’m currently working on is a book that encapsulates my psychological, philosophical, and spiritual perspective on getting to know oneself deeply and getting out of one’s own way. If you’re so inclined, your contribution would support these efforts and would be greatly appreciated (click the button below to donate). Thank you for being here!