Introducing a New Blog Series #exploring&adoring for rediscovering joy in the small things in everyday. Welcome to the launch of a new series on my blog! Let me give you a peek into why I decided to embark on this journey.

Lately, I’ve found myself in a bit of an existential pickle. It’s strange to admit, but if you asked me what brings me the most joy these days, it’s the satisfaction of crossing something off my to-do list. This has led me to step back and reconsider what truly makes me happy.

I’m surrounded by great people, pursuing activities I love, and living in a charming place. Despite all this, I’ve found myself caught in a cycle of seeking meaning and making sure every moment is “productive.” In doing so, I’ve forgotten how to simply enjoy life’s simple pleasures. I rarely read for pleasure anymore; my reading material is now confined to thesis-related texts. While I’m interested in my academic work, the fear of not making every second count has become overwhelming.

After days of sprinting on the productivity treadmill, I find myself utterly drained and collapsing in front of the TV, which has surprisingly turned into a source of frustration rather than relaxation. My life feels like a constant race between tasks, ending with me becoming a couch potato. I’m determined to break this cycle. Despite all the wonderful experiences I’ve had, I often feel mentally disconnected from the moment, obsessively counting seconds and feeling guilty for not working.

I understand that it’s unrealistic to be upbeat every single day, but I believe we can choose to make the most of our experiences. I think finding balance might involve working diligently on my research and class prep, and then stepping outside for fresh air at least once a day as I live in an area surrounded with beautiful view of mountains and many cute cozy cafes, shops etc (not so many as other areas but still…). Also, I as someone with pretty high social anxiety (I know I am able to hide it pretty well lol) I will challenge myself with just going to some yet unexplored spots and just enjoying (or at least trying to haha) some alone time. I’m not suggesting I’ll abandon my work and spend my days idly—because, let’s face it, the sweetness of rest comes after a productive day. Instead, I plan to set clear boundaries so I can fully engage in work and then truly relax without guilt. What more I also have a camera which was sitting on the shelf for way too long and definitely needs to take a walk outside with me.

You might think it’s odd to use the word “numb,” but my biggest fear is losing the ability to enjoy things as I once did. Last November, I was seriously ill with meningitis (a near-death experience that’s now a peculiar story hahaha), and the strong medication left me feeling detached. The joy I once felt in my favorite shows, coffee shops, and streets seemed to vanish. This experience frightened me and fueled my desire to truly savor life.

I also believe that time becomes meaningful when we create something of value—whether thoughts, memories, or feelings that inspire further creativity. So, I’ve decided to start this blog series to rediscover simple joys without overthinking their significance. I don’t want to waste my time staying indoors all the time, nor do I want to miss out on the little pleasures in life.

Living in Korea right now, I’ll be sharing weekly reflections on what I’ve enjoyed: new places, foods, music, and activities that have brought me happiness. While it might seem paradoxical to add another task to my list to escape my goal-oriented rut, this series is about stepping back, exploring, and appreciating my surroundings more fully.

For instance, I’m currently sitting in one of my favorite cafes in Seoul—a place I’ll introduce in a future blog post (#ItsCoffeeTime). This cafe specializes in dripped coffee and has a playlist that’s a delightful mix of experimental and classic jazz, along with some indie artists and bands. It’s the kind of place that brings a sense of ease and peace to the mind. The staff is friendly without being intrusive, and the patrons seem to be happily immersed in their own little worlds.

Despite the calming atmosphere right now, my mind still plays its usual game of searching for meaning and worrying about wasting time. But right now finishing this post and I’m setting aside my laptop and just savoring my coffee without any tasks on my mind (let’s see if I can manage ten minutes of this!). Later, I’ll head home and, instead of diving straight back into my thesis, I plan to unwind with one of my favorite playlists and enjoy the rest of this warm Sunday night. Tomorrow, I’ll kick off the week fresh and ready, and for now I’ll make an effort to focus on my hobbies rather than stressing about work.

This post is a bit of a brain dump, but I’m confident that many of us feel overwhelmed by our goal-driven society. Join me as I embark on this journey to find joy in the everyday! This said, welcome to the launch of a new series on my blog!

And for now…

…stay tuned

Au revoir

– M