HAPPY
Make More Excuses
There is a tendency to repeat and believe things like 'someone else has it worse' and 'you need to act like an adult', but what does that actually mean? In the grand scheme of things, no one says that and means it. Other people tell us those things to express discontent with how we are and so we, in turn, tell ourselves these things as an expression of discontent with ourselves. They're vague and not very helpful. Just because someone else might have it rougher doesn't mean you don't have it rough. If you're dealing with things your own way, as an adult, then no one has the ground of accusing you of otherwise. Part of learning how to be a functional adult is learning how to deal with pain and grief in ways that work for you. It's not about doing it in a way that someone else would.
JAN 09 2026
Good Enough
Food, water, and sleep are the holy trifecta of mental health. Most people add on things like healthy food, plain water, and good sleep, but I don't think it helps anyone to worry about the quality when you're struggling to get them at all. Eat unhealthy food, drink flavored water, and get any sleep you can get. It's better to eat burgers, drink soda, and crash on the couch for a few hours than to spend the entire day hoping you can get it together enough to get a healthy wrap, remember to fill up your water bottle, or suffer more from chronic insomnia by refusing to sleep throughout the day.
Oct 30 2025
Just Breathe
Sometimes life is hard and you don't know what to do, where to go, or who to talk to. That's okay and it happens. It's totally normal and you are allowed to sit down and do nothing. Nothing is a real option. Sit down, take a deep breath, and let yourself exist outside of what you think you need to be or do. The world will keep turning, Atlas, so please rest.
Oct 25 2025
Creative Shove
An artist's most important tools are their hands. I'm quite blind so I can attest to that much, you know? There are even artists who can operate without their hands! They're truly dedicated to their crafts, but this isn't about who is more what than who. Take care of and cherish your body and health. If you injure yourself pushing yourself too hard, you might as well start snapping your tools in half.
Oct 13 2025
If It Begins, It Also Ends
Nothing is eternal and while that might be a gloomy thought, you can reframe it into something more positive. Nothing lasts includes whatever is eating you up inside. This will all be over one day. Until then, I encourage you to find joy where it exists. Nurture it and prepare yourself to endure because you can do it and it is worth it.
Oct 04 2025
Ice Water
Coffee and energy drinks are my lifeblood. I can't be effectively moved without them. There is an exception, however, that I wish I could remember enough to drink more of: ice water. Some days waking up and getting to it is hard in ways that caffeine just can't make up for. On those days a glass of ice water refreshes me mind, body, and spirit.