Full on Faith

Life has been nothing short of a whirlwind lately. It’s been a season of change, growth, challenges, and resilience. Over the last nine months, my life has taken some dramatic turns, and honestly, I’m still catching my breath.

In this time, I have:

• Graduated college
• Passed the RD exam after failing by just one point (yes, one single point!)
• Started my career as a Clinical RD
• Launched my own business
• Completed two half-marathons
• Accepted the role of Youth Leader at church alongside my husband
• Struggled with and ultimately decided to continue my anxiety medication
• Ventured into making TikToks—partly for my business, partly for fun, but let’s be real, it feels like a job most of the time

It’s been a lot, to say the least. And in the midst of all this chaos, I’ve gained weight.

Now, before anyone jumps in to reassure me with, “Oh, you can’t even tell!”—that’s not the point. It doesn’t matter if you can tell. I can tell. And for me, that’s what matters. Not because I attach my worth to a number on the scale, but because I know how I feel at my best. I know the weight at which I function optimally—where I feel energized, strong, and in tune with my body. Right now, I don’t feel that way.

And you know what? That’s okay.

Life is full of seasons. Some seasons are for thriving, others are for surviving. This has been a season where my focus has been scattered across so many different areas, and my health has naturally taken a bit of a back seat. But that doesn’t mean I’m throwing in the towel. It simply means I’m recognizing where I am, extending myself some grace, and making small shifts to get back to a place where I feel my best.

I’ve started settling into my new routine—adjusting to my job, balancing my responsibilities, and finding a rhythm that works for me. And with that, I’m slowly reintegrating habits that help me feel like myself again. I’m prioritizing better sleep, experimenting with new recipes, and getting back into a workout routine that excites me rather than drains me.

This isn’t about punishment or drastic measures. It’s about listening to my body, honoring what it needs, and making intentional choices that align with my well-being. Some days will be better than others, and that’s okay too. Progress isn’t linear, and neither is life.

Giving Yourself Grace and Moving Forward

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through this season is the importance of giving myself grace. It’s easy to fall into the trap of self-criticism when things don’t go perfectly, but beating myself up has never led to positive change. Instead, I’m learning to meet myself with kindness and patience—just as I would a friend.

If you’re also in a season where things feel off-balance, here are some tips and tricks that have helped me navigate this time with more ease:

• Acknowledge where you are – It’s okay to recognize that you’re not feeling your best. Awareness is the first step to making changes.
• Make small, sustainable adjustments – Instead of diving into an extreme routine, focus on tiny habits that make a difference, like drinking more water, stretching in the morning, or prepping simple meals.
• Prioritize sleep – A well-rested body and mind make everything else feel more manageable.
• Find joy in movement – Exercise shouldn’t feel like a chore. Whether it’s yoga, dancing, or a walk outside, choose activities that feel good.
• Don’t dwell on setbacks – Progress isn’t about perfection. One “off” day doesn’t erase your efforts.
• Celebrate small wins – Recognize and appreciate your progress, no matter how small. Each step forward matters.

Life will ebb and flow. Priorities will shift. The important thing is that we keep showing up for ourselves, however that looks in the moment.

So, if you’re feeling a little off-track, take a deep breath. Give yourself grace. You are not failing—you are growing. Here’s to taking things day by day and embracing the journey, messy parts and all.

Bye Besties

Julianne