Where am I in my digital career right now?
That is such a great question. As I continue to grow, I keep learning, not only from other people but also from myself. The world is always changing. Humor shifts. Culture evolves. Music and art take on new shapes. Because of that, I am constantly trying to re-create myself on so many different levels.
Right now, I am coming back to social media after a long break. I called this time Ghost Summer, and honestly, I absolutely loved it.
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What I Learned from Ghost Summer:
-The biggest lesson I learned is that it is okay to take a break. In fact, it is necessary. We all deserve time away, and those breaks are important for growth and perspective.
-The more time I spent away from the internet, the more I knew this was my true calling. Taking that step back helped me appreciate the work I do and reminded me of why I started.
-I also learned who my true friends were. The people who reached out during that quiet period meant so much to me. It reminded me that behind the content and the creator, I have real friendships that matter. That was incredibly special.
-I enjoyed the time to be still and to explore other things I am interested in. I loved reading over the summer. It became such a fun and simple joy. Honestly, I think I might have to take every summer off from now on.
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Highlights of My Summer
One of the most meaningful parts of my summer was the time I spent writing my 6th book. I have not revealed much about it yet, but I will say this: it is my heart. This manuscript is the hardest I have ever worked on, and I am so proud of how it is coming together.
Sometimes I look back on my previous books and laugh, thinking about how I may have rushed them or how they no longer reflect the person I am today. But I am still grateful. Each story represents the version of me that existed at the time, and that has value.
I believe it is important to love every version of ourselves. A lot of people struggle with that, but I think old versions are necessary. They are the stepping stones that allow us to grow into new versions. That has been one of the biggest lessons on my mind this week, and maybe something worth journaling about.
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So here we are. Coming back after Ghost Summer, feeling refreshed, focused, and ready for what is next. Thank you for being here with me and for supporting every version of Carmen along the way.
With SO MUCH love,
Carmen