Reinvention Journal #1:
Pivoting, Pedaling, and French Philosophy
My word for 2025 is expand, which also means experimenting.
This past week, I recommitted to a micro project of producing 15 YouTube videos. Recently, I’ve noticed a shift—a desire to reinvent myself through visual documentation and archiving, which was never the case before. I used to be a social lurker. But now, this shift is taking on a tangible interest in documenting through social media. All that to say, I’ve resumed my YouTube channel, and I’m excited to see where it goes.
Regarding shifts, I’m playing with a new framework for goal-setting. Taking inspiration from Michelle at The Twelfth House, My 2025: Four Big Archetypes and Damon Domonique’s 12 Areas of My Life Where I Will Be Directing My Energy, I’m imagining a world I want to embody and creating tangible micro-projects (that are within my control) to get done. "None of that vague shit,” as Damon mentions. Anyway, here is a screenshot of the world.
In December 2024, I decided to invest in my wellness and enrolled in group fitness classes. Now, at my 40th class, I’m at the point of addiction—thanks to the music and a young tenderoni with the prettiest black curls. I love a classic boy-next-door. No, my relationship status has not changed. I love my man. However, do I enjoy the view from the bike? Yes, I most certainly do. Besides the boy next door, I love the playlists, which halfway into the class turn me into a member of Pi Kappa Alpha when the music bumps. TLDR: I’m stronger and healthier than ever.
Oh, I also started Thai boxing, where I’m currently getting my ass whooped twice a week (Je me fais battre le cul). A woman kicked me in the stomach, which knocked the wind out of me for four very long seconds. During those seconds, I prayed I wouldn’t drop to the floor, and I didn’t. The first week was a success.
You know what wasn’t a success? Getting my card declined at the magazine stand. That’s one way to keep a budget. Truthfully, I’m tired and a bit perturbed about complaining about my finances. Let’s move on. In the meantime, the idea of babysitting and teaching English is starting to become a reality. Me, teaching English to the future of France. “Young tenderoni” will definitely be in their vocabulary. I’d prefer something more creative, like a creative assistant role, while I build out my own portfolio and projects. If you know of anything, let me know.
I’m also in the process of updating my writer portfolio based on feedback for a potential writing opportunity. I’m realizing that I was unrealistic about the timeline and dedication it would take to make this pivot happen. This moment feels particularly important as I cycle through lessons of clarity and craft. What type of writing do I want to do? I tend to lean towards fiction and screenwriting. But I think it’s too early to answer that question. I’m also applying to some upcoming fellowships. Which reminds me of a quote from Alexander Chee in The Querent:
“Applying for something makes you organize yourself in relationship to your dreams and plans.
”
In the backdrop of these transitions is Paris, which recently gave us four days of sunshine in a row. I spent the last sunny day, Sunday (dimanche), lounging at a café with friends. It was a sweet reminder of how much I’ve invested in cultivating a life in this city.
Enough about me.
Is anyone making life pivots lately?
-m.s
P.S
Nothing is more contrarian to being an American than the Laissez-Faire (1) attitude of the French culture. Which I’ve been intentionally at times triggering guilt to integrate into my life.
the policy of leaving things to take their own course, without interfering.
