Nearly thirteen years ago, I lost my nephew, and somewhere in the years that followed, I lost myself too. This isn't a story about grief. It's a story about the beliefs grief gave me, the fear that shaped my life, and how changing those beliefs helped me find my way back.

For a long time, I believed my mistakes defined me. Looking back now, I realise they were often a reflection of what I was carrying, not who I truly was.

This is an honest reflection on grief, self-forgiveness, and discovering that your past is part of your story—not your identity.

For a long time, I felt completely alone.

Which is strange, because I was surrounded by people. Looking back now, I realise it wasn't because nobody was there. It was because I had lost the one person I needed most…Me. 🤍

One of the hardest truths I've had to face is that my gut was usually right.

Not because I have some special gift, but because we all know that feeling when something doesn't sit quite right.

The problem is, we don't always want to listen.

People usually show us who they are very early on. The problem is we don't always want to believe it.

That feeling you get when you first meet someone?

Mine was usually right.

Read more in this week's Hub Journal. 🤍

I was extremely young when I learnt a lesson that would shape the next twenty years of my life.

I confused being chosen with being loved, attention with connection, and validation with self-worth.

This is what I wish I knew younger.