This feels like a godsend, truly. I recently had a revelation that I cannot expect from others what I am unwilling to give myself. I cannot expect to be surrounded by certain kinds of people and friends if I cannot first be that kind of person to others. Self-accountability can feel uncomfortable, but being in a place to where I could see how my actions impacted others and being receptive to acknowledging my faults and shortcomings AND make an effort to hold myself accountable to them (in whatever way that takes shape) felt like the biggest hug I could give myself. I realize now that in the way I can tend to myself, through what feels good and what doesn’t, mirrors the way I can tend to others. You shared so many necessary reminders here. Thank you.
Beautifully written. This reminds me that giving yourself grace doesn't mean you shouldn't hold yourself accountable. I think you're so right when you say that freedom is where joy and accountability meet. Thank you 🧡.
Wow. I love the way you said "These seemingly simple acts accumulate into something powerful: a relationship with myself that is steady, dependable, and deeply rooted. Trusting myself means no longer waiting for consensus or permission to live in alignment with my values. It means giving myself room to make mistakes, learn from them, and always return to my center without shame." I believe this is were secure attachment with the self grows -- in the simple ways we show up for ourselves in ways we have always craved. In the ways we sit with the discomfort versus run from it. This is where we root and resilience is found as a result. Thank you for sharing.
“Joy” has been my word of the year 2025. I’m learning what joy is in every moment. It isn’t an event but all the moments that add up to life. Life joy.
I recently lost my father, and I looked at this moment, what can I do to honor his legacy and still have joy? The answer - Live for Jesus just like him, the same allegiance that he portrayed in his life since I was 5 years old.
This is being joyful, taking the moments and seeing the joy. Yes, I have shed tears, and I still catch my breath as it were, because he is gone.
I comfort myself, “the joy of the Lord is my strength.”
I have enjoyed reading your thoughts about Joy Spotting. I unfortunately can't get your Gratitude Journal. I still look forward to reading what you post about Gratitude.
Would anyone be able to teach me how to use the habit tracker in the first few pages of this journal? Also what are your favorite pens to use with the Karst Spot Journal!
So much wisdom here Alex! Thank you. I've found that noticing joy, feeling gratitude and having accountability are absolutely key in the journey to sobriety. And the journey to feeling fully alive for this brief time we have on earth.
This feels like a godsend, truly. I recently had a revelation that I cannot expect from others what I am unwilling to give myself. I cannot expect to be surrounded by certain kinds of people and friends if I cannot first be that kind of person to others. Self-accountability can feel uncomfortable, but being in a place to where I could see how my actions impacted others and being receptive to acknowledging my faults and shortcomings AND make an effort to hold myself accountable to them (in whatever way that takes shape) felt like the biggest hug I could give myself. I realize now that in the way I can tend to myself, through what feels good and what doesn’t, mirrors the way I can tend to others. You shared so many necessary reminders here. Thank you.
Beautifully written. This reminds me that giving yourself grace doesn't mean you shouldn't hold yourself accountable. I think you're so right when you say that freedom is where joy and accountability meet. Thank you 🧡.
Wow. I love the way you said "These seemingly simple acts accumulate into something powerful: a relationship with myself that is steady, dependable, and deeply rooted. Trusting myself means no longer waiting for consensus or permission to live in alignment with my values. It means giving myself room to make mistakes, learn from them, and always return to my center without shame." I believe this is were secure attachment with the self grows -- in the simple ways we show up for ourselves in ways we have always craved. In the ways we sit with the discomfort versus run from it. This is where we root and resilience is found as a result. Thank you for sharing.
“Joy” has been my word of the year 2025. I’m learning what joy is in every moment. It isn’t an event but all the moments that add up to life. Life joy.
I recently lost my father, and I looked at this moment, what can I do to honor his legacy and still have joy? The answer - Live for Jesus just like him, the same allegiance that he portrayed in his life since I was 5 years old.
This is being joyful, taking the moments and seeing the joy. Yes, I have shed tears, and I still catch my breath as it were, because he is gone.
I comfort myself, “the joy of the Lord is my strength.”
This is such a beautiful post!
Learning to be accountable for myself is hard work, but this post has given me some kind reminders.
Finding the problem and the power is liberating! Find it and fix it!
Thank you!
I have enjoyed reading your thoughts about Joy Spotting. I unfortunately can't get your Gratitude Journal. I still look forward to reading what you post about Gratitude.
Thank you Alex, Michelle Hesyck
I am very Grateful for your thoughts! ♥
Would anyone be able to teach me how to use the habit tracker in the first few pages of this journal? Also what are your favorite pens to use with the Karst Spot Journal!
Joy and accountability. Two teachers I haven’t always welcomed, but ones you’ve captured beautifully.
Confirming all my thoughts
So much wisdom here Alex! Thank you. I've found that noticing joy, feeling gratitude and having accountability are absolutely key in the journey to sobriety. And the journey to feeling fully alive for this brief time we have on earth.
You’re doing great work, Alex. I love the self-exploratory journey.
Love this !
Accountability without shame is a kind of freedom — and joy really does show up after the truth.
Powerful message
love your post and nice tea pot