Posted in Creative Writing, Journaling, Life Lessons, Mental Health, Personal, Reflections, Writing

Unveiling Minor Inkrements: Your Journey to Healing and Self-Discovery


I’ve got some exciting news to share, and it’s something that’s been brewing in my heart and soul for quite some time. I’m thrilled to announce the launch of my very own stationery business, “Minor Inkrements,” in the spring of 2024. This endeavor isn’t just about creating beautiful stationery; it’s a mission that’s deeply personal and rooted in a life-changing experience.

A Journey Through Darkness

This year has been a profound one for me, marked by an experience that shook me to my core. I faced a trauma that I wouldn’t wish upon anyone, and it plunged me into a seemingly endless darkness. Depression wrapped its heavy chains around me, and every day felt like an uphill battle. It was a time when the shadows of despair loomed large, and I struggled to find even a glimmer of hope.

But as they say, it’s often in our darkest moments that we discover our greatest strengths. In the midst of this despair, I stumbled upon something that would eventually become the foundation of Minor Inkrements – a simple journal. I found it in a discount store, unassuming yet strangely compelling. Its cover had a very encouraging message, and the artwork caught my eye in a way that nothing else had.

The Power of the Written Word

I began to use that journal as a safe haven for my thoughts, dreams, and the whirlwind of emotions that I found too overwhelming to express any other way. It became my anchor, a steady presence in the turbulent sea of my life. When the waves of depression threatened to pull me under, I would turn to those blank pages. Writing became my refuge, a means to release the tempest within and gain a newfound clarity about my feelings.

This practice, coupled with therapy, became my lifeline in the journey to confront my depression and process my trauma. Through writing, I started to heal, and I found the strength to move forward. It was a transformation that I couldn’t keep to myself. And so, the idea for Minor Inkrements was born.

Introducing Minor Inkrements

The name “Minor Inkrements” carries a deep significance for me. “Minor” was my grandmother’s maiden name, a nod to my roots and the strength I draw from my family. “Inkrements” is a play on the word ‘increments,’ symbolizing the significant, yet gradual, progress that can be made through the act of writing and journaling. It signifies the belief that monumental changes can begin with small steps – or, in my case, with small words scribbled on a page.

Our Mission

With Minor Inkrements, I aim to offer more than just journals and stationery. My goal is to provide tools for healing, self-expression, and personal growth. I want this to be seen as a beacon of hope for anyone who’s going through a challenging time, just as I did. If even one person finds the same comfort, escape, and healing in our products that I did in that simple journal, then I will consider our mission a resounding success.

What to Expect from Minor Inkrements

The product line will include a range of beautifully designed journals, planners, and stationery items that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also carefully crafted to encourage self-expression and personal growth. I believe that the act of writing can be transformative, and I want to empower people to embark on their own journey of healing and self-discovery.

Stay Tuned for Spring 2024

I can’t wait to share more details about the product offerings, as well as some sneak peeks, in the coming months as we approach our launch date in the spring of 2024. This is just the beginning of our journey together, and I’m excited to have you with me every step of the way.

In the meantime, if you’re interested in following this journey and staying updated on the progress, please subscribe for more details. You’ll be the first to know about product launches, special promotions, and the latest news from Minor Inkrements. My website will also be undergoing a major makeover in the coming weeks.

Thank you for being a part of this exciting new chapter in my life and for joining me on this mission to inspire healing, self-expression, and personal growth through the power of the written word. Together, we can turn the darkest of moments into opportunities for growth and transformation.

Posted in Blog, Friendship, Journaling, Life Lessons, Mental Health, Personal, Reflections, Writing, Writing Prompts

“Closing Chapters, Opening Doors: A Journal for Exploring the End of Friendships”

Friendships are like chapters in the book of our lives, each one contributing to our personal growth and experiences. But what happens when one of those chapters comes to an end? How do we cope with the complex emotions and thoughts that arise when a cherished friendship fades away? It’s a process that many of us have faced, and it can be challenging to navigate. That’s why I’m excited to announce the upcoming release of a guided journal, “Closing Chapters, Opening Doors,” designed to help you reflect on all aspects of a friendship, from beginning to end. This journal will be available on Amazon starting October 1st, 2023.

Why “Closing Chapters, Opening Doors”?

Friendship breakups, while often overlooked, can be just as emotionally challenging as the end of a romantic relationship. These closures leave behind a tapestry of shared memories and emotions that require processing. “Closing Chapters, Opening Doors” is designed to be your companion in this journey of reflection, healing, and personal growth.

What You’ll Find Inside

This guided journal is a carefully crafted tool that provides you with prompts, exercises, and space to explore all aspects of your friendship, from its inception to its end. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

**1. *Reflecting on Beginnings:* This section invites you to revisit the early days of your friendship, from the first meeting to the moments that made you feel connected.

**2. *Understanding the Shifts:* Here, you’ll delve into the changes and shifts that occurred in your friendship over time, identifying key turning points.

**3. *Processing the Ending:* This part helps you navigate the emotions that arise when a friendship comes to a close, from grief and anger to acceptance and forgiveness.

**4. *Learning and Growth:* Use these prompts to reflect on the lessons you’ve gained from the friendship and how you’ve evolved as a person.

**5. *Opening New Doors:* Finally, you’ll explore your hopes and intentions for the future, envisioning the friendships you want to cultivate moving forward.

How “Closing Chapters, Opening Doors” Can Help

  1. Clarity: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can bring clarity to a complex situation, helping you make sense of your emotions and experiences.
  2. Emotional Release: Journaling provides a safe space to express your feelings, allowing you to release pent-up emotions and reduce stress.
  3. Self-Discovery: Through reflection, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your needs, and your boundaries in friendships.
  4. Closure: Writing a farewell letter or message to your former friend, even if you don’t send it, can provide a sense of closure and peace.
  5. Goal Setting: By envisioning your future friendships, you can set intentions and goals for the kind of connections you want to nurture.

The end of a friendship can be a challenging and transformative experience. “Closing Chapters, Opening Doors” is here to support you on this journey, offering guidance, reflection, and a safe space to explore your emotions. Remember that healing is a personal process, and this guided journal is a tool to help you along the way. Embrace the opportunity to reflect, heal, and open new doors to the future.

Posted in Blog, Friendship, Journaling, Life Lessons, Personal, Reflections

Inkrement #32: How a Concert Became a Turning Point in Healing

Last night, I had an experience that I will cherish forever. Yet, it was tinged with a hint of bitterness that left a lingering ache in my heart. You see, I had the incredible opportunity to attend a concert by Sam Smith, one of my all-time favorite singers. The energy, the music, and the crowd made it an unforgettable night, and for a moment, I was immersed in pure joy. However, this bittersweet experience was overshadowed by the fact that I was supposed to share this night with someone who was once my closest companion – my now former best friend.

Months ago, we were excitedly planning to go to this concert together because we both have adored Sam Smith and their music for years. But before our plans could be made into reality, I discovered an unimaginable truth about her – she had betrayed me in a way I never thought possible. Accepting the revelation of her true identity has been an arduous journey, one filled with heartache, disbelief, and confusion.

As the concert began, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. On one hand, I was immersed in the mesmerizing voice of Sam Smith, feeling every note deep within my soul. But on the other hand, my heart was heavy with the knowledge that the person I was supposed to share this magical moment with was no longer by my side. When you think you know someone inside out, it shatters you to realize that they were never who you believed they were. Our friendship seemed unbreakable, but beneath the surface lay a deception that had been meticulously hidden for years. The revelation hit me like a freight train, leaving me struggling to comprehend how someone I loved so dearly could have done something so trifling and unforgivable. How could someone I cared for and trusted with my life deceive me in such a cruel way? It’s a question that has been haunting ever since that moment of truth.

Coping with this betrayal has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life. Emotions have swung from anger to sadness and everything in between. Trust, once given so freely, has become a fragile concept, and it’s hard to open up to new friendships without being haunted by the past. You know, when you care deeply about someone, you want to believe the best in them. It’s hard to imagine that they could willingly lie to you for years without a hint of remorse. But life has its share of surprises, and not all of them are the good kind.

In the aftermath of this revelation, I grappled with conflicting feelings. There were moments when I wanted to confront her to demand an explanation and accountability, but I feared what I might hear. The truth can be a double-edged sword, and sometimes, ignorance seems like a safer place to dwell. Nevertheless, I knew deep down that facing the truth was the only way to heal and move forward.

The bitterness of this experience was exacerbated when she responded with deflection and gaslighting. Instead of acknowledging her actions, she manipulated the narrative to portray herself as the victim. It was a twist of the knife she had already stuck in my back – the person who hurt me the most was unwilling to take responsibility for her actions. It felt like a punch in the gut, questioning my own sense of reality and making me doubt my instincts. As painful as it’s been to let go of a friendship, especially one that meant so much to me, I knew I had to prioritize my well-being. I couldn’t allow myself to be stuck in a toxic dynamic where my feelings and trust were taken for granted.

In times like this, I’ve found solace in music, just like last night at the concert. Music has always been my escape, but lately, it’s become my refuge. A space where I can process my emotions and find a glimmer of hope amid the darkness. Lyrics have a way of resonating with the deepest parts of our souls, and Sam Smith’s captivating voice seemed to speak directly to my pain. As I stood there amidst the pulsating music and the vibrant energy of the crowd at the concert, something magical happened. In that very moment, it was as if the weight of my recent struggles and heartache started to lift, and a feeling of peace enveloped me like a warm embrace. It was brief, but for the first time in months, all was well in the world.

Among the sea of faces surrounding me, I found a sense of unity. Strangers, linked by a shared love for Sam’s music, came together, finding enjoyment in the melodies that connected us beyond words. In that space, there was no judgment or past betrayals. Only a collective appreciation for the beauty of music and the vulnerability it evokes in us all. It reminded me that life moves on, and there will be moments of joy and happiness ahead, even after the darkest times.

It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve found strength in allowing myself to grieve the loss of a once cherished friendship. I’ve surrounded myself with the support of other friends and loved ones who truly care about my well-being. Those who have stood by me through thick and thin. They provided unwavering support, reminding me that I am not defined by the actions of others and that healing takes time. Their love and understanding have been helping me mend the fragments of my broken heart.

One of the hardest aspects of this journey has been learning to forgive myself for the misplaced trust and vulnerability I had shown. It’s natural to blame oneself, wondering how you missed the signs or allowed yourself to be deceived. But self-compassion is crucial during these times, understanding that we are all human and susceptible to manipulation.

As I write this, I am still on the path of healing, and that’s okay. Some wounds take longer to mend than others, but I believe that I will emerge stronger, more resilient, and with a clearer sense of who I want to share my life with. The bitter taste of this experience will gradually fade, making room for the sweet moments that life has to offer.

To anyone going through a similar revelation, remember that you are not alone. There is strength in vulnerability and immense power in accepting the truth, even if it’s painful. During this journey, you might also encounter gaslighting and deflection from your former friend, just like I did. It can be extremely frustrating and hurtful, but remember that their actions are a reflection of their own insecurities and guilt. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who will listen without judgment and provide the emotional support you need. Surround yourself with those who genuinely care for you and seek professional support if needed. Above all, have faith that healing is possible, and there will be brighter days ahead.

Posted in Blog, Journaling, Personal, Reflections, Writing Prompts

Inkrement #10

Journal Prompt of the Day:
Imagine a future where you have fully healed from your trauma. What does that look like?

Imagine a future where you have fully healed from your trauma. What does that look like? For me, it’s a bright and hopeful vision that I’ve held onto for years, even when I thought healing was impossible.

Growing up with an emotionally, verbally, and sometimes physically abusive mother, I didn’t know what a healthy relationship looked like. It wasn’t until I left home, experienced shitty situationships and found myself in bad predicaments that I realized how deeply my trauma had affected me. Even then, I knew it would be a long and difficult journey to healing.

But in this future that I imagine, I am finally free. I am free from the crippling anxiety that has plagued me for years, free from the fear that has held me back in relationships and work, and free from the emotional scars that have haunted me since childhood.

In this future, I wake up feeling rested and energized. The regrets, the should’ves, the could’ves, and the would’ves no longer keep me up at all hours of the night. I no longer carry the weight of the past on my shoulders, and I am able to approach each day with a renewed sense of hope and purpose. My relationships with family and friends are strong and meaningful, and I am able to trust and love freely. I’m not afraid to express my needs and wants, and I know that my friends will listen without judgment. I’m also in a loving, supportive, and healthy romantic relationship. I know that I’m worthy of love and respect, and I no longer settle for less than I deserve.

I am also thriving in my career. I have a job that is fulfilling and challenging, and I am able to use my experiences to help others who may be going through similar struggles. I no longer wake up dreading to clock in and counting the hours until I clock out. My creativity is flowing freely, and I am able to express myself fully through my work and my hobbies.

But I think most importantly, I am at peace with myself. I no longer feel like a victim of my past, but instead, I see my trauma as a source of strength. It has given me the resilience and determination to overcome obstacles and to pursue my dreams. I am proud of who I am and what I have achieved, and I am excited about the future.

Of course, healing is not an overnight process, and setbacks will happen. But in this future that I imagine, I am equipped with the tools and the support to navigate those challenges and triggers. I have a strong sense of self-awareness, and I am able to recognize and address any negative patterns or behaviors that may arise. I’ve also learned how to express my emotions in a healthy way, and I don’t feel like I’m bottling everything up inside.

I know that this future is not guaranteed, but I also know that it is possible. With continued work and dedication to my healing journey, I believe that I can reach this place of peace and joy. In my fully healed future, I’m not defined by my trauma. It’s a part of my story, but it’s not all of it. I’m able to look back on my experiences with a sense of gratitude and understanding. I know that my experiences has shaped me into the person I am today, and I’m proud of who I am.

As I write about my fully healed future, I’m filled with a sense of hope and optimism. I know that my healing journey won’t be easy, but I also know that it’s possible. I’m committed to doing the work and taking care of myself so that I can create the future that I’ve imagined. I know that I deserve to live a life that’s free from the weight of my past hurts, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.

Take some time to envision your healed future. Put pen to paper, blog your thoughts, or make a vision board – whichever works best for you – and imagine what a recovered version of yourself will look like on your journey.