There’s a benefit to going through Instagram’s “shared on this day” feature every morning, as I do. I begin to notice things I wouldn’t otherwise. Like how I seem to go through different phases or micro-“eras” with the photos I take or the looks I gravitate towards, depending on how I’m feeling or where I am or what I’m interested in at the time. You might be noticing that too.
I don’t know what to make of the set I took yesterday. It’s minimal, for a start. Militantly minimal. A year from now, I might have words to articulate why. But maybe you can feel something here too.
There’s freedom in inscrutability, though. In seeing things singularly and feeling no tug towards a shared expression. Sometimes this leads to being even better understood, though that’s rare. Most times it just means you’re ignored. There’s freedom in that too.
5 Ways to Work With This Retrograde:
Revisit Creative Projects: Pick up that half-finished manuscript, dusty painting, or paused knitting project. Either complete it or consciously close the chapter.
Reflect on self-expression: Drop the performance and express yourself authentically. Step into your genuine voice and power — even if it’s messy.
Reconnect Consciously: If someone from the past reappears, it’s okay to take a pause. Examine the purpose before engaging. Is it healing, closure, or just noise?
Revise the Personal Brand: Update bios, digital profiles, or your grid’s aesthetics. Let visuals and messaging reflect your ever-evolving identity and values.
Reclaim the Voice: Speak from lived experience and own your raw, unfiltered truth. Don’t wait to be perfect — just be real!