Even in the Gray Area, You Can Move Forward
Birthday reflections from yours truly 🎂.
Hola familia,
Coming to you before I log-off for the day to celebrate another year around the sun. Birthdays are a time for reflection—a chance to pause and take stock of where we’ve been and where we’re headed.
If you know me, you know I’m no stranger to gray areas. Someone once told me I’m the most calculated, strategic, go-with-the-flow person they’d ever met—a compliment I’ve always cherished. I’ve built my life and career on balancing careful planning with embracing the beauty of spontaneity, of the unknown.
But when infertility entered my life, the gray area stopped feeling like a space I could navigate. It wasn’t just the unknown—it was a world of “maybes” I couldn’t strategize my way out of. The openness and spontaneity that once felt freeing now felt suffocating, and I spent months frozen in uncertainty.
The breakthrough came, as it often does, through vulnerability. When I began sharing my experiences, something incredible happened: I found people who had walked similar paths and could support me. And in turn, my story allowed others to feel less alone.
Even in the Gray Area, You Can Move Forward
When life feels like it’s spinning out of control, vulnerability and small, intentional actions can help steady us. Here’s what helped me:
Gratitude: Writing down just one thing I was thankful for each day helped me focus on what I did have, even in the hardest moments. (It is scientifically proven to rewire your brain, check this podcast episode out.)
Movement: A short walk, a dance, or simply stepping away from my day-to-day routine helped me shift my perspective. (I caved and bought the viral walking pad + pilates board from TikTok shop - yes, I am that girl. But no regrets tbh, it’s helped so much.)
Preparation: While I couldn’t control every outcome, I could gather information and focus on what I could influence. (My Notion dashboard has never been so up to date.)
Sharing My Story: The act of opening up reminded me of our shared humanity. It connected me to a community and gave my struggle purpose. (And perhaps even inspired me to start thinking about a memoir…)
These small steps didn’t erase the uncertainty, but they helped me move forward.
Potential Takeaways That May Resonate…
To my fellow first-gen and underrepresented changemakers: I see you. I know how easy it is to get caught in the gray area, questioning: Am I doing too much? Or not enough?
Here’s what I’ve learned:
You Have More Control Than You Think: Even when you feel stuck, small, intentional steps can help you regain momentum.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone: Building community, asking for help, and tapping into your network can make all the difference.
Vulnerability is a Strength: Sharing your story can connect you to others who’ve been there—and remind you that you’re not alone.
Redefine Success on Your Terms: Let go of other people’s timelines and expectations. Success is what you say it is.
Gray areas are uncomfortable, but they’re also where growth happens.
A Final Thought for the New Year
Today, I turn 33—a number that feels symbolic in ways I’m just beginning to unpack. In numerology, 33 is a “master number,” representing creativity, growth, and a sense of higher purpose. To me, it feels like an invitation to lean even deeper into the lessons I’ve learned: to embrace vulnerability, to trust the process, and to move boldly even when the path isn’t clear.
If you’re navigating your own gray area, know this: the power to shape your story is always within you. Every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to the life and impact you envision. Let’s step into this year together—with purpose, with intention, and with the courage to keep going.
Con amor y gratitud,
xx
P.S. If you’re ready to take your next step this year, I’d love to support you. Join me for my January 9th workshop, apply to the Jefa in Training Circle, or book a strategy session to map out your 2025 goals.