Today, I didn’t really know what to write about. No particular insight or grand idea came to mind—but I still chose to sit down and write. Why? Because I want to keep the habit going. I want to honor the commitment I’ve made to journal, reflect, and show up daily. This simple rhythm has helped me wrap up each day with clarity, and more importantly, with gratitude.
When I started this blog, I didn’t expect much from myself. I simply wanted to write each day, regardless of the length or the topic. And surprisingly, I felt joy each time I finished a post. There’s something deeply satisfying about being able to look back and say, “I showed up today.” I also imagine that years from now, I’ll return to these entries and smile at the growth, the wrestles, the prayers, and the progress. Who knows? Maybe this could even turn into a book someday.
Journaling the Sabbatical Journey
As I prepare for my upcoming sabbatical year, another motivation has surfaced—I want this blog to be a place where I document that journey, too. Not just for me, but maybe for someone else. Someone who might one day find themselves standing where I’m standing: unsure, excited, a little scared, but deeply hopeful.
I want this to be a space of honesty and consistency. I want to capture both the highs and the lows of what it means to pause, to reset, and to be intentionally present with God. Wouldn’t it be encouraging to know there’s someone else out there feeling the same things you’re feeling? That you’re not alone in your thoughts, fears, or dreams?
That’s why even on days like this—when inspiration is low and the temptation to skip is high—I still write. Because even the struggle to write is worth writing about.
The Power of Small Steps
Lately, I’ve been reading The Power of Daily Routines by Dr. Amelia Scott. It’s a short, practical read, and I’ve been intentionally pacing myself through it—one chapter a day. As of writing this, I’m already on chapter nine out of ten. Finishing a book this way—little by little—reminded me of the compound effect, something I also came across in the book I’m reading.
The compound effect is the idea that small, consistent actions lead to big, lasting results. You don’t need to make massive leaps every day. Just small, faithful steps in the same direction. When something feels natural, it flows. But when we force ourselves too much or take on more than we’re ready for, we burn out. We quit. And our habits don’t stick.
That’s why, for me, journaling doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be present. Some days might be full of insight, others might feel a little flat—and that’s okay. What matters is that I keep showing up. Writing in a way that feels true to who I am, without pressure or pretense.
Just Show Up
If you’re in a season where you’re trying to build a habit, pursue a goal, or just stay afloat, here’s something I want you to know: Showing up is already a big step. Even if you don’t feel like it. Even if you don’t do it perfectly. Even if all you have to offer today is a little bit of effort—that’s still progress.
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.”
— Zechariah 4:10 (NLT)
God delights in every small step you take in obedience and faith. Whether it’s journaling, praying, resting, or working towards a dream—your consistency matters. He sees it. And He will multiply it in His time.
Take a moment to reflect today:
Is there an area in your life where God is asking you to simply show up, even if you don’t feel ready or inspired?
Showing up doesn’t mean having it all together—it just means being present and faithful with what you have today.
Faithfully,
Yani
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