I’m done pretending I can push through fatigue, Reader.

I’m tired at the moment. The kind of tired that makes ordinary things feel harder than usual.

And I’ve noticed when I have less energy to do the usual things, some of my old survival behaviours take centre stage.

I find ways to numb out for respite, and I avoid..

I delay life admin. I only do the washing in small amounts, and I turn into the world's worst cook!

I've taken some time off, and I've been Netflixing. And today, hubby and I are heading away to stay with friends for a bit.

The only way I can completely switch off is if I leave the house.

It's taking a few minutes to sit out on the grass several times a day to replenish while moving very slowly. I'm needing to say no. And I really have to prioritise myself above everyone else.

Yes, I have all the cancer things and medications that cause fatigue, but this has been next level, so I've been sent for more bloods to check everything.

It really is one day at a time right now 🥱

We all have periods in our lives like that. Can you relate?

When our usual ways of coping are stretched thin, familiar patterns can resurface as our brain searches for ways to resolve the problem.

It doesn’t mean we’ve lost all the progress we’ve made. It means we’re having a hard time and need to strip it all back, and really take care of ourselves.

If that’s where you are right now, here are a few things to try:

• Name what’s happening. “I’m tired, and my need to avoid is showing up.” You can notice a pattern without judging yourself for it.
• Make the day smaller. Ask, “What actually needs to happen today?” Let one thing be enough if that’s what you have capacity for.
• Check your basics. Have you eaten, had water, stepped away from your screen or had a moment to sit down?
• Pause before saying yes. “Let me get back to you” can give you room to decide what you can really manage.
• Tell someone the truth. You don’t need a polished explanation. “I’m struggling a bit today” is enough.

I’m reminding myself of these things as I write this. Awareness creates choice, even when that choice is simply to rest.

If an old pattern has been showing up for you lately, I see you.

It helps to get all the thoughts out, literally. So you're welcome to reply and share with me what's been going on for you 🙏🏻

You're not losing your mind, and you're not the only one!

Take care, Reader 💖

Ali x