What Happens When You Prioritize You
In this space, I share my journey of living freely in real-time, offering insights, journal prompts, and affirmations to empower you to do the same. Join a community of women as we redefine what freedom means together and support each other in living life on our terms! By becoming a paid subscriber, you’ll access exclusive content that deepens your journey, including monthly journal prompts and affirmations tailored just for you.
As the year winds down, I find myself in deep reflection, replaying the lessons, the wins, and even the challenges that shaped me this year.
Truthfully, my life started to shift around my birthday (3/21). It wasn’t an overnight change—it’s been years in the making. For the past few years, I’ve been grieving. Grieving the end of the old me, my old life, and stepping into my newness.
Yes, I made the decision to get a divorce. Yes, I moved into my first apartment at the of 42. And honestly? I thought those changes would be the key to my freedom. I imagined life would feel amazing—like all the heaviness would instantly disappear.
But here’s the thing: the physical move was only the beginning.
Freedom isn’t just about changing your surroundings—it’s about healing from within. I had to unlearn so much, confront what was holding me back, and give myself permission to grow. And that kind of work? It’s a solo journey.
Looking back, I’m so proud of what I’ve worked through. The grief, the fear, the uncertainty. All of it has led me here—to a version of myself that feels lighter, more at ease, and finally free.
And you know what else? I feel creative again. Not the same creativity I once had, but something new, something evolving. It feels amazing to be in this flow.
In the last two months alone, I’ve:
Launched my website, Freedom is the Lifestyle, a space for women to claim their freedom, and rediscover who they are so they can live on their terms
Curated an email list of amazing women who want to live life unapologetically on their terms while receiving tools and resources for support
Grown an incredible community on TikTok to over 8K+ followers
Created the Starting Over, On Your Terms Guidebook and launched the complementary 6-week course
Gotten more intentional about sharing here on Substack, creating a space for deeper connection while taking a much-needed break from podcasting
Made the decision to take a break from dating so I can focus on dating myself—getting to know who I am on a deeper level and prioritizing my own growth
And I’m just getting started!
So how did I get here? How did I reclaim my freedom after experiencing grief, a divorce after 19 years, the loss of my Granny, and raising two brilliant children—including sending one off to college in NYC?
Here’s the truth: it wasn’t easy. It wasn’t quick. But it was worth it.
And I used the same seven steps that I now teach in my Starting Over, On Your Terms Guidebook.
Here’s a little insight into the 7 steps:
Step 1: Self-Awareness
You can’t change what you don’t acknowledge. This step is about holding up a mirror and asking, “What do I really want? Who am I when I’m not defined by my roles or responsibilities?”
Step 2: Release Old Narratives
We all carry stories about what life should look like. But are those stories serving you? Letting go of old beliefs creates space for new possibilities.
Step 3: Redefine Freedom on Your Terms
Freedom looks different for everyone. For me, it’s living unapologetically, embracing my truth, and making choices aligned with my heart. What does freedom look like for you?
Step 4: Create Boundaries & Prioritize Yourself
Saying “no” is a full sentence. Protect your peace and make yourself a priority—because you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Step 5: Take Small, Intentional Steps Daily
You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just focus on the next right step. Small, consistent actions lead to big transformations.
Step 6: Embrace the Journey (Be Open to Change)
Change is inevitable, so why not lean into it? Being open to the twists and turns can lead to the most beautiful growth.
Step 7: Surround Yourself with Support
You’re not meant to do it all alone. Find your people—the ones who encourage you, hold space for you, and remind you of your worth.
As I reflect on this journey, I’m reminded that starting over isn’t just about new beginnings—it’s about rediscovering who you are, releasing what no longer serves you, and leaning into the woman you’re becoming. It’s about giving yourself grace, embracing the process, and staying open to the beauty of transformation.
This is your reminder that no matter where you are on your journey, it’s never too late to start again, dream bigger, and create a life that feels free and fully yours. I’m so proud of how far I’ve come, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next. If you’re ready to take those steps toward your own freedom, I’d love to have you join me in the Starting Over, On Your Terms Guidebook or 6-week course. Let’s make freedom a way of life—together.
With love and light,
Siobhan
Ready to dive deeper into your journey of freedom?
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