How I found patterns in my life that are enjoyable and empowering
Katharine Pope Katharine Pope

How I found patterns in my life that are enjoyable and empowering

When I stopped drinking alcohol over a year ago, I immediately felt better removing the toxin from my daily life. But the underlying reasons I was drinking lingered and propelled me to address my personal health and wellness. I’ve been enrolled in many gyms since high school but used to call the membership fees my “fat tax.” I had body issues and would work out and diet as a punishment. Because it was not an activity associated with positive emotions, it never became a habit I enjoyed or looked forward to. Today, I can actually say that I love waking up early Friday mornings for Yoga class. I look forward to lifting heavy weights and spinning on my bike. I eat to fuel my body (and still enjoy cookies and ice-cream with my kiddos!). I’m not sharing this to shame you (if you’re still not here) or to brag about myself (although, I’m dang proud of this) but rather to show that your goals are within reach. When you combine good people (my yoga teacher) with good feelings (my muscles are killer!) you can establish patterns in your life that are empowering and enjoyable.

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Have you hugged a last responder today?
Katharine Pope Katharine Pope

Have you hugged a last responder today?

Happy New Year! On this day one year ago, I found out I was being laid off my brand new federal job, a job I’d taken instead of accepting a full ride to a doctorate in forensic anthropology (my real dream). I was about six months into a sober curious journey, and I was mostly alcohol free but still not totally stable. My aunt had died the week before and my kitchen was under renovation with no end in sight.

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