Hi friends,

I’ve noticed how my constant habit of tuning into my phone leaves me feeling overwhelmed. The news cycle is endless and often debilitating — to the point where lately I found myself struggling to do anything. I know that to show up effectively in the world, I have to take care of myself first. So this week I gave myself a break and made Sunday an internet-free day.

I’ve taken internet breaks before and they always feel good — and yet, it’s still surprisingly hard to pull myself away. But when Sunday morning rolled around, instead of immediately reaching for my phone, I stayed in bed and read a chapter of a non-fiction book. After that, I wrote my morning pages, did breathing exercises, and went to a coffee shop to write some more. I found I had so much more time when I wasn't scrolling. By the afternoon I was already feeling more powerful — a reminder of how beautiful it is to tap into the present moment.

Later at a party, friends asked if I’d seen their Instagram stories. Because I hadn't, we actually talked about their experiences instead of me just passively scrolling past them. That small difference made the connection feel deeper, and is something I want to cultivate further.

Since then I’ve gone back online, but the break gave me a buffer. Now, if I catch the algorithm trying to trigger me, I simply close the app. And I’ve kept one of the best parts — starting my mornings with a book instead of my phone.

Because of how good I feel, even several days past my break, I’m setting the intention to do this more often — ideally once a week, with room for flexibility. At its core, it’s about giving myself permission to be fully present, open to joy and discovery.

That shift also got me thinking about how I want to show up here with you. This break gave me space to reflect more deliberately on the purpose of this newsletter. Much of what I’ve shared has been about noticing what doesn’t serve me. But just as important — maybe even more so — is the act of seeking joy. This week, I’ve been leaning into that: connecting with friends, exploring hobbies, playing with my beautiful cat. That’s where I want to keep putting my energy.

Reframe Prompts

In times like these, joy isn’t frivolous — it’s essential. It keeps us awake, responsive, and reminds us a better future is possible. This week, use these questions to help guide where you want to head.

• What’s one small thing that brings you ridiculous joy right now?
• How can you create more space for discovery/delight in your everyday life?
• What’s the best possible outcome you can imagine for something that's been worrying you?

Bonus: Turn your answers into affirmations. For example: “Joy is already present in my life, and I let it expand” or “I welcome the best possible outcome.”

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Recs

• Do something this week that brings you ridiculous joy. And if you feel like sharing lemme know, I’d love to hear!
• ​Becoming Supernatural by Dr. Joe Dispenza — the book I turned to instead of my phone
• ​Run, Rose, Run by Dolly Parton & James Patterson — I've been making my way through James Patterson books because they're so easy to read (2 page chapters, yes please). I haven't read this one yet, but I spotted it at the library and, really, how could it not be good? It's next on my list.

The more we practice joy, the more we remember that it’s always available to us, even in small ways. Here’s to noticing those pockets of light and leaning into them this week.

xo,
Christen

PS - I’m working to build up my Etsy shop right now and would love your support. If you’d like a Human Design Insights report — for yourself or as a gift — they’re on sale for friends & family pricing through the end of September. Here’s the direct link, and if you enjoy it, leaving a review would mean the world.