I both can and can’t believe it – It’s been ONE YEAR since I launched The Bets Life. My website went live on May 15th, 2020 – perfectly timed during a global pandemic of course. It was not the best time to start something new, but I have since realized that creativity rarely strikes at a “right” or “perfect” time. If you know me, you know that I love any excuse to celebrate (examples include cat birthdays, theme parties, and, naturally, the entire month of September), but I am extra proud and ready to cheers to one year of TBL. These words mark my 60th (!!!) blog post, and I can’t thank you all enough for reading along and cheering me on. I am so grateful for everyone who has read my writing weekly, kept up with my life on social media, and offered support and encouragement. Putting myself out there is scary, but the reward has been and continues to be well worth the risk.
This past year hasn’t been easy (for a multitude of reasons), and it hasn’t always been smooth sailing for TBL. I have pressed “publish” on posts that have left me feeling uncomfortable and extremely vulnerable. I have pushed myself to share details or opinions that I haven’t always wanted to express publicly. I have felt tidal waves of self-doubt and uncertainty, and I’ve frequently thought, “Does what I’m doing or writing really matter?” I’ve had moments where I’ve wanted to stop writing, times of fatigue and frustration, and lots of days of feeling burned-out. There have been instances where I’ve tried to figure out something on my website, and I’ve felt like banging my head against a wall. I’ve been deflated when posts that I’ve worked really hard on have totally flopped. Many times, I’ve stared at a blank computer screen the night before a post and felt like I had nothing to write about.
Here’s the good news. While I’ve had unexpected (and expected) challenges, I’ve also had countless heartwarming and wonderful moments. I’ve had people text me saying that a post really hit home for them and that they’ve been dealing with similar feelings or experiences. I’ve had readers tell me that I’ve inspired home projects. I’ve had strangers compliment my writing, and I’ve had friends tell me how much they love “hearing” my voice through my words. I’ve had lots of feedback from people on social media expressing that they enjoy seeing glimpses of my life. I’ve even had people purchase the same clothing or home items because they like my style – always a major compliment. When subscribers tell me that they look forward to reading my writing every week, it truly makes my day. When I get a text or email saying that my writing is admired and appreciated, it sometimes makes me cry.
So, yes, I have had times of exasperation where I have wondered why I started TBL in the first place, and then I have had moments where I can’t imagine not starting it. For all the times that I’ve felt judgment, negativity, or apathy, the moments where I’ve reached someone have made it all worthwhile. From the beginning, I’ve always said that if just one person can feel less alone or more connected from interacting with TBL, then I’ve accomplished what I set out to do. Whether it’s a funny video, an emotional blog post, or a scenic Santa Barbara photo, I hope that TBL always serves to inspire, offer a laugh, and empower people to be and express their true selves.
I also hope that The Bets Life serves as a reminder that life is joyful, messy, beautiful, unpredictable, adventurous, humbling, and awe-inspiring. TBL captures my version of life, but, thankfully, there’s no one-size-fits-all guidebook. I hope that you continue following along and living your version of your best life. My wish is that TBL has helped you to laugh at your mistakes (I make countless) and pop the champagne for your successes. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for the past year. I am hopeful that there are many more words to write, stories to tell, and photos and videos to share. Here’s to many more years – cheers!
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