Jennifer J. Coldwater

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Give yourself grace

Monday Motivation

It’s okay to not be okay. You don’t have to have it all figured out right now.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned—both in life and through the characters I write—it’s that growth is messy, and that’s perfectly okay.

Reading and writing have always been my lifelines. Stories remind us we’re not alone, even when the world feels overwhelming. Whether it’s escaping into a book or creating something raw and real with your own words, storytelling can be a powerful way to process what you’re feeling.

Here are some things that have helped me when I’ve felt like I didn’t have it all together:

  1. Give Yourself Grace: Life isn’t about being perfect. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough.

  2. Find Refuge in Stories: Pick up a book that speaks to your soul (like Holland, My Heart or When Ivy Met Adam—shameless plug) or anything that feels like a hug in book form.

  3. Write It Out: Whether it’s journaling or working on that creative project, putting pen to paper can be incredibly healing.

  4. Celebrate the Small Wins: Made your bed? Took a deep breath? You’re winning.

You don’t need to have all the answers today. Just take the next step, however small, and trust that the path will unfold.

And if you’re looking for a place to start, let this shared space, my books, our friendship be reminders that love, growth, and healing are always possible—even when life feels uncertain.