Why stepping away can make it better
What happens when you stop trying to fix yourself for a minute and connect with what matters
I’ve just returned to the UK for the summer after spending a few months in Dubai.
To be honest, I was pretty apprehensive about going there. It wasn’t about meeting new people or fear of change. It was about starting all over again because I felt like a complete failure in London and, frankly, very alone. Sharing this so openly feels like a lot, especially as a woman speaking to other women. I often hesitate because I’ve noticed how quickly women tend to offer advice, often when it’s not really needed. But today, I want to share my story with you in the hope it inspires you to embrace unfamiliar places and fresh perspectives.
What Dubai Gave Me
Surprisingly, Dubai gave me something I didn’t realize I’d been craving: space to connect, with others and with myself. It gave me exactly what I needed.
Dubai is home to people from all over the world, many of whom are familiar with travel and starting fresh. Unlike my experience in the UK, I found people there to be especially friendly and welcoming. That openness helped clear my thoughts.
Despite the rise of AI, creativity remains crucial. It’s about exploring mistakes and setbacks. One skill I learned while traveling is not to expect or assume. Taking time to sit quietly allows creative expression to be born.
Most importantly, I came back to myself. I recovered my confidence after the constant stress of being around draining people (there, I said it). By making fresh connections, I found myself again. This theme resonates strongly in both of my podcast episodes this month.
This Week’s Podcast Highlights
In my conversation with Dr. Louise, we explored how easily we over-identify with fear. We often hold back from expressing what we really feel. Since returning to the UK, I noticed many people focus on complaining about their lives. When I shared how wonderful it felt in Dubai, they quickly changed the subject. It seems “right” to dwell on fears, while speaking positively is sometimes seen as wrong.
One reminder from the book Drop Your Noise that I keep coming back to is:
It’s not about ignoring fear but about not taking it so personally or letting it lead your life. Learning to share your story in a way that serves a purpose is powerful. I highly recommend Dr. Louise’s podcast for more insights on leading a meaningful life.
The Joy of Life and Real Connection
In my episode with Bilal, we touched on something many of us forget amid the city’s busy rhythm: joy. Not the “Instagram quote” kind, but the joy that comes from being ourselves in the presence of others. Bilal shared this through his experiences at music festivals. As someone who’s not into festivals, I got a serious case of FOMO hearing about the power of meaningful human connections.
It’s easy to get caught up in being busy, productive, and “on it.” But what’s the point of life if we’re always replacing real connection with checklists?
Both episodes are available here
A Personal Reminder
Recently, I was on a call with a friend from the Far East who casually mentioned that someone I met over a decade ago had asked about me. That moment impressed me. It reminded me that how we show up matters—even in small, everyday ways. We leave impressions, even when we’re not trying.
Ultimately, real connection doesn’t have to be transactional. Sometimes, it’s just being present with someone, that’s where being truly seen and heard begins.
I felt that deeply in Dubai. Stepping away to a place where people thrive on in-real-life connections will be increasingly important as we move forward in the age of AI.
Your Turn: Who’s on Your Mind?
Here’s my reminder for you: who came to your mind just now that you want to call or message? It can be a refreshing conversation.
Thanks for reading.
P.S.
If you’re feeling in transition, confused by life, and looking for clarity and calm amidst the noise of the world, I’m here to help.
Book a one-on-one clarity call or simply reply to this email and tell me what you’re working through. Let’s start where you are.
Warmly,
Kirti