Well, what a year 2023 has been so far! There's so many unexpected life changes that have been thrown my way. Some of which I've handled with ease and have turned out to be unexpected blessings, others, not so much! I can only be honest and say that I simply haven't felt in the right space to share some of my feelings with you, especially when I always try to be that little beacon of light when others need it the most. But, a wise man once said to me... "Natalie, who heats the sun?!"... and I felt that, so took some well needed time for myself.
In all of my almost 5 years of being on air with the BBC, if there's one thing I took the most pride in, it was being there for the listeners at times when some of them needed support the most. I can honestly say as I now focus on starting from scratch due to recent decisions and changes, I am so grateful that all of those listeners are now there for me. Still messaging, still offering support and most importantly, continuing to help rebuild my self confidence that's heavily wavered of late (even when they may not have realised), reigniting my self belief in the process, that I do still have something to give to this world after all and to keep pushing. We often underestimate the power of connection and how much of an impact we can have on each others lives even if from afar. Connection really is key!
When it comes to change, it's always been one of those things that you can either run from or choose to embrace, but if there's one thing I do know, it's inevitable! However, it's not what we're faced with, it's how we deal with it that matters. As I've tried to navigate my emotions over recent months, everything from fear, disdain, uncertainty and complete self doubt, even I can only wallow for so long before I tell myself, right, enough's enough, it's time to dust yourself off, pick yourself up and start again!! As cliche as some sayings may sound... when one door closes, another one opens... one person's loss is another's gain... these really are true. We are the masters of our own destiny and no one in this world is going to help us more than we help ourselves. So, for those of you who have been going through tumultuous times, are questioning your next move and may need to hear it.... YOU'VE GOT THIS!!! I'm not perfect, I certainly don't have all of the answers, but just take things one step and one day at a time and be sure to surround yourself with people you love!
I'm so grateful for everyone in my life, my immediate family, loved ones and friends I know both personally, to those who I've never even met before, if only via the airwaves, but still mean as much. Thank you for the last few years and I can't wait to continue this journey that is life with you all, whatever the future may hold!
xxx