Birthday Reflections
It’s kind of mind boggling to think that this time last year I was getting engaged and planning a wedding. For many personal reasons and societal pressures, I thought I was supposed to be sensible and “grow up”. After some major plot twists (see video here) over the past year, things have taken a completely new direction. Life comes at you fast and I think the main lesson I was supposed to learn this year was to stop planning and start feeling.
I love being in my 30s. I feel like I understand myself more and more every single day. I’m so excited for the year ahead - I have no idea what’s to come. I have never in my life felt so much gratitude for the people around me. I could cry I feel so lucky to have such a strong support system during one of the most difficult years of my life.
Some reflections on the past year:
ON PRIORITISING YOURSELF
Keeping others happy over our own wellbeing is something that most women are guilty of, especially in our 20s and early 30s. If there’s something I’ve learned in my 30s, it’s that prioritising myself is the ultimate act of self-care (I mean, I literally started a whole brand around this concept.
In a world that never stops demanding, it’s easy to forget that the most important person in your life is you. As the saying goes - you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritising yourself isn’t selfish, it’s vital. It’s more than ‘me time’ - it’s protecting your peace, valuing your own time and making choices that align with your true self.
If you aren’t prioritising yourself right now, I urge you to step back, put pen to paper and think about how you can flip the script.
ON LISTENING TO YOUR INNER VOICE
In the noise and chaos of everyday life, there’s a quiet whisper that often gets drowned out—your inner voice. It’s the compass within you that knows the way, even when the world tries to steer you in a different direction.
Listening to your inner voice is an act of trust, a belief that deep down, you already know what’s right for you. It’s that gut feeling that pushes you toward opportunities, warns you of red flags, and reminds you of your values.
When you tune in, you gain clarity, make decisions that align with your authentic self. In times of chaos or uncertainty, I really try to take a quiet moment, breathe, and listen closely to my inner voice. In time, I’ve learned to trust the guidance that my body is trying to tell me.
Something important I’ve learned recently is: if it’s not a hell yes, it’s a no.
ON FIGURING OUT WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY
Figuring out what gets you out of bed each morning and makes you happy is one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself.
Happiness is extremely personal and isn’t a one-size-fits-all. What sparks joy, excitement, or contentment in your life? Is it the quiet moments of solitude, the thrill of adventure, or the connection with others?
Something I’ve learned to do is challenge old beliefs on what happiness should look like - nowadays, I’m enjoying taking the time to experiment, try new things, and to reflect on what leaves me feeling fulfilled.
5 things that make me truly happy, today:
Getting outside in nature, rain or shine
Spending time with my dog in our favourite places
Stretching it out at yoga
Taking the time to look after myself
Dancing
REMEMBER: YOU CAN ALWAYS START OVER
Embrace new beginnings
Let go of expectation
Mindset shift on ‘failure’
Every day is a blank slate
Reinvent yourself and your path
Find the bravery to recognise when something isn’t working
Being bold enough to make a change
It’s never too late to choose a new direction
Chase a dream you set aside
Bring the lessons of the past, but not the baggage
ALWAYS REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE
Reconnect with your true self
Reclaim your power
It isn’t about clinging to the past
Strip away the noise, the doubts, and the labels others have placed on you
Pause, breathe, and look inward
You become more resilient, more confident, and more at peace
You are more than enough, just as you are
By the way, as a birthday treat today my brand MIRROR WATER is giving you 20% off using code: ELBDAY20 | Shop here!
What a beautiful birthday message. I’m actually saving this one — it’s so easy to lose sight of our own needs — this message will serve as a reminder for me. Lots of love to you on your birthday, Estée! 💗
So much yes to this. The beloved sisterhood is the foundation. So excited for what the year ahead will bring. Growing through peace & presence, giving yourself grace, and embracing adventure 🌿🎨💕