21/07/2025
On Saturday I got all dressed up and headed to the races. I’d paid good money, made plans, and felt the pressure to “make the most of it.” But when I got there, the reality didn’t match the vision.
🌧It was raining, everything felt cramped, and I was deeply uncomfortable.🌧
I stood for a while, trying to tell myself to stick it out,after all, it had cost a lot, and I didn’t want to let others down. but then I paused.
I tuned into myself and gently asked, “What do you actually need right now?”
The answer?
Calm. Comfort. Space. Safety.
So, I left.
After just one hour, I made a call asking to be picked up and went home. Instead of beating myself up, I reminded myself:
👉 I’m an adult now. I don’t need to justify doing what’s right for me.
👉 I’m allowed to change my mind, even if something cost a lot or someone else might be disappointed.
👉 My well-being is valid, even when it doesn’t look “sensible” or “socially acceptable.”
This moment wasn’t just about leaving the races it was about breaking a pattern.
It’s something I often talk about in therapy: SUNK COST THINKING
that deep pull to keep going with something simply because we’ve already invested time, money, or energy.
We tell ourselves:
“I’ve paid for it, so I have to stay.”
“I’ve committed, so I can’t back out.”
“I don’t want to waste it.”
But what if staying is costing you even more emotionally, mentally, or physically?
💭 Do you notice this pattern in your own life?
💭 Do you find yourself pushing through discomfort, suppressing your needs, justifying why you must continue?
💭 Would you like to explore a different way of showing up for yourself?
If this resonates, maybe it’s time to talk.
I offer a confidential, compassionate counselling space where you can explore these patterns and begin gently shifting them.
📩 Get in touch if you'd like to see whether counselling could be the next step in honouring yourself more fully.
