Honestly, I still can’t believe we’re already in April. Like, how did three months just vanish like that? One minute it was “Happy New Year,” and the next thing, people were shouting “Happy Easter.” Time is not even walking it’s flying.
At the start of 2025, I had my usual list of goals. You know that “new year, new me” hype. I told myself this year would be different. I’d be more intentional with my money, try to exercise more, be more consistent with work, eat better, all those good things. I even bought a small notebook to track everything. I really tried to plan well.
And to be fair, I achieved something huge, I got married. That’s definitely the biggest and most beautiful part of my first quarter. Planning a wedding is not beans, especially in this economy, but we did it. From the stress of buying things in the market to the last-minute surprises and pressure from left and right, it was a lot. But on that day, everything came together, and it felt worth it. Seeing my partner by my side, saying those vows, dancing with friends and family it’s a memory I’ll never forget. That one event alone carried my whole quarter.
But aside from that beautiful moment, life still showed me pepper in small doses. Let’s start with money. Everything is now expensive. I honestly thought I had prepared for post-wedding expenses, but I was wrong. From groceries to transport, even random things like soap and tissue, the prices just keep climbing.
Then there’s the adjustment that comes with marriage itself. Nobody explains it fully. It’s a beautiful journey, yes, but you suddenly realize you’re no longer living for just yourself. Every decision now includes another person. From food choices to daily routines, I’ve had to adjust. It’s been eye-opening.
Work-wise, things changed completely. Because of my wedding, I had to relocate, and that meant starting all over again as a makeup artist. Back in my old area, people already knew me, I had to return clients and referrals, and I was used to the flow of things. But in this new environment, it’s like pressing the reset button. I now have to introduce myself again, push my work out there, and slowly start building trust with a new set of people.
It’s not easy at all. Some days, I feel invisible. I’ve been trying to promote myself by posting more of my work, talking to people around, and sometimes even offering free sessions just to get my name out there. It’s draining, but I know it’s part of the process. I remind myself that the clients will come with time. They always do.
Mentally, I’ve been in and out. There were days I felt overwhelmed. Between work, adjusting to marriage, handling responsibilities, and just trying to stay sane, I had moments where I just shut down. I didn’t want to talk to anyone. I’d just lay down and stare at the ceiling. I’m learning now that it’s okay to feel like that.
So the first quarter of 2025 has been a mix. A beautiful high with my marriage, and then regular adulting stress sprinkled everywhere else. I’ve learned to celebrate my wins, even if they come with challenges. I’ve learned to adjust my expectations. I’ve learned that it’s okay to change plans and that rest is not a waste of time.
The second quarter is here now, and I’m walking into it with a softer mindset. Less pressure, more grace. I’ll do what I can, rest when I need to, and try to enjoy the small moments. After all, life is not a competition.
NOTE:- ALL THE PICTURES ARE MINE
This is my response to this episode of hivelearners community prompt of #hl-w161e1 which the topic is tagged
THE FIRST QUARTER
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