In a world that constantly demands our attention, where distractions are all around and expectations never seem to end, it’s easy to lose ourselves in the noise. I found myself caught in this whirlwind—balancing our businesses and the responsibilities of motherhood. The pressure to succeed, to be present for my family and to push through my self-doubt became overwhelming.
I found myself saying yes to everything, adding to my endless list of chores until one day I crashed and found myself in desperate need to do something different, because this was just NOT working.
It wasn’t until I consciously chose to retreat within that I truly found clarity, peace and direction. Taking a step back was a necessity for my well-being and growth.
I stopped doing things that were not bringing me joy or filling my cup. I retreated from people to concentrate on myself. This for me, was out of my norm, putting myself first. It felt incredibly wrong and selfish. Until, I learnt the true value of making myself a priority. I cannot give myself fully to the people who matter most to me in my life if I'm constantly running on empty.
This is what I learnt on why embracing solitude and self-reflection became the most transformative decision of my life.
Understanding Who I Truly Am
When I finally allowed myself to slow down, I realised how much of my identity had been shaped by external expectations. I had been so focused on growing my businesses, ensuring my family’s happiness and to be quite honest, the opinions of what others had of me were consuming me. In all that craziness, I neglected to ask myself: What do I truly want?
By stepping away from the outside world—whether through meditation, journaling, or letter burning rituals—I began to uncover my authentic self. I reconnected with my passions, dreams and the vision I had for my life, free from societal pressures and fears of failure.
Healing and Releasing Limiting Beliefs
One of the biggest struggles I faced was my mindset around my self-confidence and self-image. I carried deep-rooted fears of lack, constantly worrying if I was doing enough or was good enough. Through mindfulness, I learned to recognise and release these limiting beliefs. I replaced fear with trust, scarcity with abundance and doubt with faith. Retreating within allowed me to shift my perspective and rewrite my story from a place of empowerment.
Reconnecting with My Inner Peace
In the midst of chaos, we often forget that peace is not found outside of us—it resides within. I used to believe that if I just worked harder, earned more, or achieved my next goal, I would finally feel at peace. But the truth is, peace was always available to me; I just needed to find it from within.
Through Reiki, meditation and intentional solitude, I learned how to quiet my mind and listen to my intuition. I no longer needed to chase external validation or compare myself to others. My inner peace became my guiding light, leading me towards decisions that aligned with my true purpose.
Was it easy?
No.
Did I spend lots of time crying?
Yes.
But it was necessary for me to rewrite my story and to unlearn the old one I had been telling myself for years.
Gaining Clarity on My Life’s Vision
Retreating within gave me the space to dream boldly and map out a future that felt aligned with my soul’s calling. I envisioned a thriving business, a balanced family life, the ability to travel the world and to feel my absolute best every single day. With clarity came confidence and with confidence came the inspired action necessary to make my dreams a reality.
I no longer felt like I was running on autopilot, just surviving each day. Instead, I became intentional with my time, my energy and my goals. I embraced manifestation techniques, dedicated time to self-care and set healthy boundaries that protected my mental and emotional well-being. I joined the gym - the thought of that used to sound hilarious, but now I'm lifting weights and loving it. Who have I become? I'm still not sure but Im loving rediscovering this every day.
Strengthening My Relationship with Myself and Others
Taking time for myself didn’t mean neglecting my loved ones—it meant showing up for them as the best version of myself. By prioritising my own self-discovery, I became more present, patient and understanding in my relationships. I no longer resented the demands of life because I had finally given myself the space to breathe, to grow and to love myself fully.
If you feel lost, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your path, I encourage you to retreat within. Create the space to reconnect with yourself, release the expectations that no longer serve you and rediscover the dreams that set your soul on fire.
Your answers, your peace and your power are already within you. All you need to do is slow down, listen and trust the journey.
I found myself by retreating within and I know you can too.
Emilia xx
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