28/01/2026
Hi all, just to say that being a therapist definitely doesn’t mean I’ve got life neatly figured out at all — if anything, it might mean I notice my own mistakes more than anyone else!
I use CBT and mindfulness type inspiration every day… and I’m also a normal human, a mum, and someone learning French purely for fun. By fun, I mean confusing myself, laughing in the class, and feeling slightly embarrassed every time I actually try to speak it. Which turns out to be excellent practice in tolerating imperfection — and pushing myself to do things that feel awkward (vulnerability!).
That’s a big part of how I approach life and CBT. It isn’t about doing everything perfectly — some weeks I eat well, other weeks I survive on bananas and tea and biscuits, some mornings I get up on time, other days not so much... Life can be messy, and CBT is about noticing that without beating yourself up and still being ok. I try to practise that too. Some weeks I manage yoga, exercise, fresh air, self-help books and hobbies. Other weeks I manage the basics — and that is still good. And most days, I try to notice that I’m alive, happy for it, and grateful for the little things — like family fun, laughter and shared moments as well as all the other fun parts of life!
I balance therapy sessions with school stuff, emotions, life admin, and the quiet boredom that can sneak in even when you’re supposed to be busy. I work hard for my family, which is wonderful — and sometimes exhausting. It’s normal to feel frustrated when it all piles up. CBT helps me notice that and think about more fun things! I keep up with social media very imperfectly — because it doesn’t come naturally to me and isn't really joyful for moi— (that's 'me' for all you non French speaking people) so I practise letting that be totally OK!
I notice the familiar thoughts about not doing enough at home, not being organised enough, not keeping on top of everything. I notice the frustration when my home or career or relationships or local area isn't perfect while I’m trying to create calm on the inside. CBT and mindfulness etc doesn’t magically remove those thoughts. What it does is help me notice them, respond with practicality and positivity, and come back to what really matters!
I’m not a perfect therapist. I’m a practising one!
www.harmonyorion.co.uk
