One Step Closer

Today, my mind was set on one thing, that assessment. It had been sitting in the back of my thoughts for days, quietly waiting to make its grand entrance. So I was up early, lacing up for my usual morning walk, my daily ritual of grounding. The skyline was soft and painted in pastel hues, and the cool breeze was the kind that gently reminds you you’re alive and capable. Mornings like these give me that extra spark, a spring in my step that carries into everything else.

Once I got home, I shifted gears, straight into prep mode. Focused, determined, and running through practice material like a woman on a mission. As the time crept closer, the nerves kicked in. You’d think I was gearing up for something dramatic, and to be honest, it kind of felt that way. Deep breath. Steady mind. Let’s go.

It was just an hour, but what an hour it was. The kind of challenge that messes with your brain a bit. Think economics multiple choice… with negative marking. I exaggerate, but you get the idea. It stretched me. But in a strange way, I appreciated it. It wasn’t about perfection. It was about showing up, trying, and gaining the kind of experience that no textbook can teach.

By the end, my brain was toast. Like someone had unplugged me at the wall. So the rest of the day was slow, intentional. I caught up with a friend, gave myself permission to breathe again, and leaned into some much-needed spiritual connection, because lately, those inner check-ins have been just as important as the professional ones.

It was a full day, no doubt. Mentally taxing, emotionally rich. But even in the exhaustion, there’s this growing gratitude, for the opportunities, the lessons, and the way each step, even the hard ones, moves me a little closer to where I’m meant to be.

Not every day needs to feel like a big win. Some days are about showing up, trying your best, and trusting that it all counts.

~ Nerusha