LOL With Jessica Acton

Sorry for the mini hiatus! I been caught up with lots (LOTS) of work, doing assignments, tests, and preparing for graduation that it consumed all the time I could possibly have had! But happily I have Jessica Acton of jessthetics with me here sharing with us her take on LOL.

Hello! My name is Jess

I’ve just graduated from my philosophy degree, so I’m currently living at home doing bits and bobs of temporary work until I can land a “proper” job.

I like my ginger bunny rabbit Archie, going for walks in the countryside, and making things. I like fluffy jumpers, dressing up with no-where to go, and I love everything elephant themed. I don’t like the sound of cutlery scraping against plates, having hot feet or getting up early.

I understand living out loud to be living in an intentional way. It’s about thinking about what you do and doing it because you believe in it, because you want to, or because it’s contributing to positive change.

Having just graduated, I have no permanent plans and in theory my life can be whatever I want it to be. The possibilities are endless. This leaves me with almost too much choice, and this uncertainty has challenged me to think about what I want and why I want it. I’m learning to stop worrying about the fact that my life isn’t what I thought it would be, stop comparing myself to others and worrying that I’m “losing” the post-graduation life competition, and just enjoy each day for what it is. I’m learning that setting myself long to do lists each day isn’t making me happy, so I’m going to make the most of my freedom by using this time to do things that I enjoy and spend more time with people I love. I’ve been volunteering, blogging, crafting and going on days out with my mum. So, I guess what I’m trying to say is that living out loud isn’t just about reaching towards big future goals (although that’s important) it’s also about making right now count.

I’m inspired by people who are honest and open and live the life they want to live without worrying too much what others think of it. I’m also hugely inspired by people who are creative and by people who fight for causes they really believe in.

Think about whether you’re fulfilled by what you’re doing every day, and if you’re not, change it. Dreams and goals are important but they’re also flexible. Take time every day to do things that make you feel good – volunteer for a charity you love, make your favourite food for breakfast or write a letter to a friend.

The best advice I can give is probably something I learned from my dad – don’t take anything too seriously!