beginnings

Hello and welcome to wherewithal.

Today marks not only the first post that I am writing on my new little space on the internet, but also the beginning of my summer break after finishing my first year at University.

I thought that it made sense to start writing this blog on this particular day, as it is the first time that I can really sit back and look at the last "year" of my life to reflect. And honestly, it has been amazing.

Around this time last year, I came very close to not going to University at all. I had become so comfortable in the life that I had created during my gap year, and so scared at the prospect of starting a new one, that it just felt easier to stay as I was. The thought of moving to a new place, making new friends and starting a new chapter felt too daunting to even comprehend. I have realised that I am someone who often lets fear of the unknown stop them from making new steps forward. And, in this case, the temptation to succumb to that fear seemed so much more desirable than the unknown.

In the end, though, I didn't succumb to the fear. And thank bloody God. Moving to University has meant leading one of the best years of my life so far. I've had more fun in the last eight or so months than I think I've ever had, I've met people who I hope to know forever, and I've learnt so much about myself and where I want my place to be in this life.

Somewhere through it, though, I think I've probably become a bit lazy. Not lazy in the pure sense - although I am pretty lazy but I'm going to carry on claiming that that is my prerogative as a 19 year old - but lazy in pursuing and cultivating my passions. University life is so much about waking up too late with a hangover, and late night pesto pasta, and days spent on the sofa watching thousands of re-runs of Come Dine with Me; that everything else that was important before seems to kind of slip away into a past you. Don't get me wrong, I have fully embraced the University life and loved every second of it. But I would like to try to continue to live it whilst also getting back the parts of me that I've maybe forgotten about; through too many vodka lemonades and episodes on Netflix.

This begins with writing. I love to write. Words, and the way that people choose to write, I think, is like a window to their soul. There is nothing more satisfying than something that is beautifully and perfectly written and that is what I hope to create here. I will write about all the things that I am interested in; fashion and beauty and lifestyle, but also what it is like to be a young woman today. The challenges it brings, and what is important to me as I grow up in this world.

So, here's to new beginnings. In every sense. I hope this marks the start of living a life that is more creative and that whoever reads my words, likes them.