When Was the Last Time You Asked Yourself, "What Do I Want?"

  There was a time when that question came easily.

What do I want to become? What should I learn next? What makes me happy?

As kids, we dream without overthinking it. We imagine a version of our future, change our minds, dream again, and somehow believe everything is still possible.

Then life happens. We get married. We become mothers. Our days start filling up with other people's needs instead of our own.

"Did the kids eat?"
"Did I reply to that message?"
"What should I cook today?"
"Did I pay that bill?"

Somewhere in there, the question quietly changes. Instead of "what do I want," it becomes "what does everyone else need from me." And a lot of women lose touch with themselves right there, in that swap, not because they stopped dreaming, but because life got busy enough that they forgot they were allowed to.

I know this because I lived it.

A few years ago, my days were built around tiny hands reaching for me, school schedules, and sleepless nights. I don't regret any of it. But I do regret losing myself inside it. At some point I realized I hadn't stopped being a writer, I'd just stopped writing.

When I finally went back to blogging after a long break, I thought I was just restarting a website. Instead, I found my own opinions again. My own stories. Things I'd forgotten I still cared about.

Around the same time I kept growing as a makeup artist, competed in a pageant for the first time, and started saying yes to things that used to scare me. Not because I'd suddenly become fearless but because I finally understood that you don't have to stop being someone's wife or mother to also be yourself. You're allowed to be both.

For a long time I thought choosing myself meant choosing less for my family. I see it differently now. When I write, I'm happier. When I work toward a goal, I'm more confident. When I take care of myself, I have more to give, not less.

If you're reading this thinking, "I don't even know what I want anymore" — you're not the only one.

It rarely happens all at once. It's one postponed dream, one skipped hobby, one "I'll do it later," repeated for long enough that a year turns into five, and five turn into ten, until you wake up wondering where that younger version of yourself went.

She's still there. She's just been waiting for you to notice her again.

Rediscovering yourself doesn't have to start with something dramatic. It can start with just:

• Reading the book you've been putting off.
• Starting a blog.
• Taking a walk without feeling guilty about it.
• Putting on lipstick because it makes you smile.
• Calling yourself by your own name before all the roles you carry.

I'm still figuring this out myself. Some days I feel completely sure of who I am. Other days I don't. But I've stopped waiting for the perfect time to become the woman I want to be — I'm just taking it one step at a time. Maybe that's enough. Maybe that's where it actually begins.

Before you go —

Take out a notebook, or just the notes app on your phone, and answer this honestly:

What do I want?

Not what your family expects. Not what's expected of someone your age. Just you.

If that's hard to answer, don't be hard on yourself for it. A lot of us have spent years so focused on everyone else that we forgot how to hear ourselves think. That's why I put together a free guided workbook Come Back to You filled with seven days of gentle reflection prompts to help you reconnect with yourself, one day at a time.

Download your copy of Come Back to You here: 📥 Download Free Workbook

And if any of this sounds familiar, I'd love to hear from you. When was the last time you asked yourself what you want?

Maybe today's the day to ask again.

Stay Blessed, Be Happy..!! :-)

Preeti.

Why Does the Rain Make Us Feel Different?

There is something about the rainy season that no other season can quite replicate.

Every year, the monsoon arrives almost the same way. The sky slowly turns grey, the wind becomes cooler, the first raindrops kiss the ground, and suddenly that familiar fragrance of wet earth fills the air. We have experienced this countless times, yet somehow, it never feels ordinary, isn’t it?

Have you ever noticed how the rain doesn't just change the weather in fact it changes us?
To be honest, I find myself asking this every monsoon:
Why do we suddenly want to sit by the window doing absolutely nothing?
Why does a cup of coffee taste a little better?

Why do old songs suddenly feel more meaningful?
Why do some memories, long forgotten, quietly find their way back?
Maybe…maybe the rain has always had this quiet way of speaking to our hearts.

You know what, when I was younger, I loved the monsoon simply because it was beautiful. I loved getting drenched in the rain, the lush greenery, the smell of petrichor, long drives, hot coffee, and everything that came with the season. Honestly, I still do. But over the years, I've realized that what I love most is not just the rain itself; it's actually about how it makes me feel. The rainy season has this gentle ability to slow life down.

On most days, we are constantly chasing deadlines, replying to messages, checking our phones, moving from one task to another. We are always doing something. But somehow, when it rains, I feel the world seems to pause for a while.

Traffic slows down. People walk a little slower. Conversations become longer. Windows stay open. And without even realizing it, we begin to slow down too.

I don't know if it's the rhythm of the raindrops or the cooler breeze, but monsoon often makes me more reflective than any other season. It's almost as if nature whispers, "Take a moment. You don't have to rush all the time. And maybe... that's exactly what many of us need.

    Related Post:  Look Your Best This Monsoon Season    

Okay just tell me one thing — have you ever felt unexpectedly emotional on a rainy day? Not necessarily sad—just... emotional.

Sometimes a particular smell reminds us of childhood vacations. Sometimes an old song playing in the background takes us back years. Sometimes we are simply watching the rain and suddenly thinking about people we haven't spoken to in ages. Have you ever felt these things?

Isn’t it fascinating how a season can unlock memories we didn't even know we were carrying.

There is actually a reason for this. Our senses, especially smell and sound, are closely connected to memory. The earthy fragrance after rain and the soothing sound of raindrops often trigger emotions and experiences stored deep in our minds. That's why the first rain of the season can instantly transport us to another time in our lives. And I think that's incredibly beautiful.

Not every memory has to make us smile. Some may make us miss someone. Some may remind us of who we used to be. Some may simply help us appreciate how far we've come. The rain doesn't judge those emotions. It simply gives them space.

Of course, not everyone experiences monsoon in the same way. For some, it's the happiest season of the year. For others, cloudy skies may bring lower energy or a feeling of loneliness. And that's okay too.

We often feel pressured to always be cheerful, but perhaps every emotion has its own purpose. Maybe the rainy season is not asking us to be happy all the time. Maybe it's inviting us to be present with whatever we are feeling.

Instead of asking ourselves, "Why am I feeling like this?"
What if we asked, "What is this season trying to tell me?
Maybe it's reminding us to rest.
Maybe it's encouraging us to reconnect with ourselves.
Maybe it's simply asking us to pause.

We don't always need a grand escape or an expensive vacation to recharge. Sometimes all it takes is a quiet evening, the sound of rain outside, your favourite drink, and a few uninterrupted moments with yourself.

This monsoon, I'm trying to embrace those little pauses instead of filling every silent moment with my phone.
Sometimes I sit by the window and watch the rain without taking a picture of it.
Sometimes I play soft music and let my thoughts wander.
Sometimes I write.
Sometimes I don't do anything at all.
And surprisingly, those moments never feel wasted.

If anything, they remind me that slowing down isn't the same as falling behind. In a world that constantly celebrates productivity, perhaps the rain celebrates presence.

Before I end this post, I'd like to leave you with a small thought.

The next time it rains, don't immediately think about the traffic, the muddy roads, or the plans that got cancelled. They'll always be there. Instead, take just five minutes. Open your window. Take a deep breath. Notice the smell of the earth. Listen to the raindrops. Watch how the leaves dance with the wind.

You don't have to meditate or do anything extraordinary. Just be there.

Sometimes, the most beautiful conversations are the ones we have with ourselves. And maybe that's why the rainy season feels so different. 

It doesn't just water the trees, the flowers, or the fields. In its own quiet way...It waters something within us too.

Now I'd love to hear from you. What does the rainy season make you feel?

Does it bring back beautiful memories, make you feel calm, spark creativity, or simply make you crave a cup of chai or coffee while watching the rain?

I'd genuinely love to know. Share your thoughts in the comments. I always enjoy reading your stories.

Stay Blessed, Be Happy..!! :-)

Preeti.

Manual to Face Serums: A Simple Guide to Choosing What Your Skin Really Needs

There was a time when skincare felt simple. Cleanser, maybe a moisturizer, and we were done. But somewhere along the way, things changed. Shelves became fuller, routines became longer, and words like serums, actives, and ingredients started to feel a little overwhelming.

If you are someone who feels confused about serums or wondering whether you really need one, then this guide is for you.

Because the truth is — skincare doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective. in fact, you just need a moment to understand your skin a little better, and choose what truly supports it — not what trends tell you to buy.

What Exactly Is a Serum (And Why Does It Matter)?

A serum is a lightweight skincare product designed to deliver concentrated ingredients deep into your skin. Unlike moisturizers, which mainly gives hydration and protection, serums are more targeted and focused.

They work on specific concerns like dullness, dryness, uneven skin tone, or early signs of aging.

You can think of it this way — if your skincare routine is a foundation, then a serum is that extra support that helps strengthen it.

But here’s something important:
You don’t need every serum — in fact, using too many can sometimes do more harm than good.

Before Choosing a Serum, Listen to your Skin

We often end up buying products because they are trending or someone recommended them. But what works for someone else may not always work for you.

So before choosing a serum, pause for a moment and ask yourself:

• Does my skin feel dry or tight?
• Is my skin looking dull or uneven?
• Am I dealing with breakouts or clogged pores? 
• Does my skin feel tired or stressed?

Your answers will guide you better than any trend.

Because skincare, when done mindfully, always starts with understanding.

    Related Post:  The Face Toners Manual     

Types of Serums (Without the Confusion)

If you are wondering which serum is right for you, don't worry — let’s simplify it.

1. Hydrating Serums

If your skin often feels dry, tight (especially after washing), or dehydrated, this is what you need.

Look for ingredients like:

• Hyaluronic Acid
• Glycerin

These help your skin retain moisture and feel soft and plump.

👉 Perfect for: Dry, dehydrated, or even combination skin.

2. Brightening Serums

If your skin looks little lifeless or uneven, a brightening serum can help restore that normal glow.

Look for:

• Vitamin C
• Niacinamide

These ingredients work gently over time to improve skin tone and radiance.

👉 Perfect for: Dull skin, pigmentation, uneven tone or when your skin just feels "off."

3. Repair and Anti-Aging Serums

As time passes, our skin naturally changes.  These serums help support skin repair and improve texture.

Look for:

• Retinol (Start slowly and use carefully)
• Peptides

👉 Perfect for: Fine lines, uneven texture, early signs of aging, or skin that needs a little extra care.

4. Soothing Serums

Sometimes your skin doesn't need correction — it needs calm.

Look for:

• Aloe Vera
• Centella Asiatica

👉 Perfect for: Sensitive, irritated, redness, stressed skin or after long, tiring days.

Wondering Which Serum You Should Start With?

If you’re still unsure, here’s a simple way to begin:

·        Dry or dehydrated skin → Go for a hydrating serum

·        Dull skin  & Uneven Tone → Choose a brightening serum

·        For Fine Lines & Skin Texture → Select a Repair & Anti-Aging serum

·        Acne-prone or sensitive skin → Pick a soothing serum

·        First-time user → Start with something gentle like niacinamide

Start with one. Observe your skin. And then decide.

How to Use a Serum (Simple & Effective)

Skincare doesn’t need to be complicated.

Follow this easy routine:

1. Cleanse your face
2. Apply toner (if you use one)
3. Take 2–3 drops of serum
4. Gently press it into your skin
5. Follow with a moisturizer

That’s it.

No need for a 10-step routine. Consistency matters more than doing too much.

A Few Simple Tips Before You Start

• Always do a patch test before trying a new serum
• Start slowly, especially with strong ingredients like retinol
• Avoid mixing too many actives together
• Give your serum time to show results

Remember, skincare is not about quick fixes — it’s about consistency.

Less is More (Always)

This is something we don’t hear enough.

You don’t need:

• multiple serums
• complicated routines
• or a shelf full of products

One good serum, used consistently, is more than enough.

Because sometimes, doing less actually gives better results.

    Related Post:  An Ideal Guide to Makeup Primer     

Making Skincare a Moment, Not a Task

In the middle of busy days and endless responsibilities, we often forget to slow down.

Applying a serum can be more than just another step in your routine.
It can be a small moment of care.

A moment where you pause.
A moment where you reconnect with yourself.

Even if it’s just for a minute.

Final Thoughts

There will always be new products, new trends, and new recommendations.

But your skin doesn’t need everything.

It just needs a little attention, a little consistency, and a little understanding.

So, if you haven’t started using a serum yet, this might be your sign to begin — slowly and mindfully.

Choose what feels right for your skin, not what feels trendy.

Let's Talk

Have you started using a serum yet, or are you still figuring our what works for you?

What is your biggest skincare concern right now?

Share your thoughts, your experiences, or even your confusion in the comments — I would truly love to hear from you.

Stay Blessed, Be Happy..!! :-)

Preeti.

Living on Autopilot: Are We Actually Experiencing Our Lives?

There are days that pass by in a blur.

You wake up, check your phone, rush through your routine, complete your tasks, respond to messages, maybe scroll a little before bed—and then suddenly, the day is over. Nothing went wrong. Everything got done. And yet, something feels… missing.

It’s not exhaustion exactly. It’s not even dissatisfaction.

It’s the quiet feeling that you were present for your life—but didn’t really experience it.

Welcome to life on autopilot.

The other day, I was sitting with my evening coffee—something I look forward to, something I do every single day.

But halfway through, I realized I hadn’t actually tasted it.

I had already checked a few messages, replied to something, and mentally started planning the rest of my day.

The cup was almost empty… and I wasn’t even there for it.

And that’s when it hit me—how many moments like this do we move through without really noticing?

What Does “Living on Autopilot” Really Mean?

Living on autopilot doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. In fact, it often means the opposite—you’re managing everything.

You’re responsible. You’re productive. You’re showing up.

But somewhere along the way, your actions start running on habit rather than awareness. You go through your day without really noticing it.

You eat without tasting.
You listen without fully hearing.
You scroll without remembering what you saw.

Your body is present—but your mind is always somewhere else.

How Did We Get Here?

Autopilot is not a personal failure. It’s a natural response to modern life.

We live in a world that rewards speed, efficiency, and constant engagement. Multitasking is seen as a skill. Being “busy” feels like progress. And slowing down? That often feels like falling behind.

So we adapt.

We start doing more in less time. We stack tasks together. We fill every quiet moment—waiting in line, sitting alone, even eating—with some kind of stimulation.

And over time, this becomes our default mode.

We stop asking, “Am I present?”
We only ask, “What’s next?”

    Related Post:  Protecting Your Peace: Breaking Free from Peer Pressure at Every Stage of Life     

The Subtle Cost of Autopilot Living

At first glance, autopilot feels efficient. It helps you get through the day.

But slowly, it takes something away.

You begin to miss the small, meaningful moments:

·        The warmth of your morning coffee

·        A genuine conversation with a loved one

·        The feeling of fresh air during a short walk

·        Even your own thoughts and emotions

Life doesn’t necessarily become worse—it just becomes less vivid.

Days start blending into each other. Weeks pass quickly. And before you know it, you’re wondering where the time went.

We don’t always lose our lives in big, dramatic ways.
Sometimes, we lose them quietly—moment by moment, while we’re busy doing everything else.

 

Are We Truly Experiencing Our Lives?

This is an uncomfortable question—but an important one.

Because experiencing life isn’t just about big milestones or special occasions. It’s about the everyday moments in between.

It’s about:

·        Being fully there when someone is talking to you

·        Noticing how you feel instead of pushing it aside

·        Paying attention to what you’re doing, even if it’s routine

When we live on autopilot, we trade awareness for efficiency.

And while that might help us function, it doesn’t always help us feel alive.

The Illusion of Being “Connected”

Ironically, we’ve never been more connected—and yet, we’re often less present.

We check messages while eating.
We scroll while watching something.
We think about replies while someone is still talking.

Our attention is constantly divided.

Even during moments meant for rest, our minds are elsewhere—replaying conversations, planning ahead, or consuming endless content.

We’re rarely just here.

Small Signs You Might Be on Autopilot

You don’t need a dramatic realization to notice this pattern. It often shows up in simple ways:

·        You reach for your phone without thinking

·        You don’t remember what you just watched or read

·        You feel busy all day but can’t recall anything meaningful

·        You struggle to sit in silence without distraction

·        You constantly feel like you're “catching up” with life

If any of this feels familiar, you’re not alone.

    Related Post:  Mental Health and Its Awareness:  A Step Towards Understanding     

How Do We Step Out of Autopilot?

The good news is—you don’t need to overhaul your life.

Mindful living doesn’t require drastic changes. It starts with small, intentional shifts.

1. Pause Without a Purpose

Not every moment needs to be filled.
Take a few minutes in your day to simply sit, breathe, and exist—without checking your phone or doing anything “useful.”

It might feel uncomfortable at first. That’s okay.

2. Do One Thing at a Time

Multitasking feels productive, but it divides your attention.

Try:

·        Eating without scrolling

·        Listening without interrupting

·        Walking without checking your phone

You’ll be surprised how different even ordinary moments feel.

3. Notice the Little Things

Mindfulness doesn’t always mean meditation.

It can be as simple as:

·        Noticing the taste of your coffee

·        Feeling the water while washing your hands

·        Observing your surroundings during a short walk

These small acts bring you back to the present.

4. Create Tech-Free Pockets

You don’t need a full digital detox.

Just create small boundaries:

·        No phone during meals

·        A few minutes of screen-free time in the morning or before bed

These moments help you reconnect with yourself.

5. Check In With Yourself

Pause and ask:
“How am I feeling right now?”

Not how you should feel. Not what you need to do next.

Just what you’re actually experiencing in that moment.

It’s Not About Perfection

You don’t have to be mindful all the time.

Life will still be busy. There will still be distractions. You will still slip into autopilot—and that’s okay.

The goal is not to eliminate autopilot completely.

It’s to become aware of it.

Because awareness is what brings you back.

A Gentle Reminder

Life is not just something to get through.

It’s something to notice. To feel. To experience.

Not just on special days—but in the quiet, ordinary moments that often go unnoticed.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about how much we did—
it’s about how much of it we actually lived.

So the next time you find yourself rushing through the day, pause for a second.

Take a breath.

Look around.

And ask yourself—
Am I truly here right now?

Because sometimes, coming back to the present moment is all it takes to feel alive again.

If this resonated with you, I’d genuinely love to hear your thoughts.
And if you feel like someone else might need this reminder today, do share it with them.

Stay Blessed, Be Happy..!! 😊

With love,

Preeti

Ekran Soft Silicone Sunscreen Gel SPF 50+ PA+++ Review: Is it Worth Buying in 2026

Hello Everyone,

Hope you all are doing well!

Summers are here in full swing—and while we all love those bright, golden sunny days, our skin definitely doesn’t feel the same way. Let’s be real—between the heat, tanning, and constant UV exposure, our skin is usually the one taking the hit.

Unlike winters where dryness is the main concern, summers bring along tanning, sunburn, pigmentation, and long-term skin damage. That’s why sunscreen isn’t just an option—it’s absolutely non-negotiable. Because honestly, no skincare routine works if we skip this one step.

But finding the right sunscreen? That’s where the real struggle begins. I used to avoid sunscreens because of that heavy, greasy feeling—until I found something that actually felt comfortable on my skin.

After using it consistently through peak summer days—and already being on my second tube—I’m finally sharing my honest experience with the Ekran Soft Silicone Sunscreen Gel (SPF 50+ PA+++).

Let’s get right into the review.

          

About Ekran Soft Silicone Sunscreen Gel SPF 50+ PA+++:

Not Just a Sunscreen—It’s Skin Protection + Comfort

Ekran Soft Silicone Sunscreen Gel (SPF 50+ PA+++) is a dermatologically recommended sunscreen designed to provide broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays, while still feeling super lightweight on the skin.

What it claims?

• Provides broad-spectrum sun protection
• Helps prevent sunburn, tanning, and pigmentation
• Lightweight, non-greasy silicone-based formula
• Suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin
• Gives a smooth, matte finish

How is it used?

Using it is very easy:
Take a pea-sized amount and apply evenly on your face and exposed areas at least 15–20 minutes before stepping out in the sun.
Don’t forget to reapply every 2–3 hours, especially if you’re outdoors for long durations.

Composition:

Key ingredients:  It is enriched with:

• Silicone base – Gives that smooth, velvety texture and blurs pores
• UV filters – Protect skin from harmful UVA & UVB rays
• Vitamin E (in many formulations) – Helps in protecting and nourishing the skin

It is generally non-comedogenic, lightweight, and suitable for sensitive skin types.

First Look:

The sunscreen comes in a simple, compact tube packaging that gives a very clinical and dermatologist-trusted vibe—something I personally feel more confident using on my skin.

It’s lightweight, sturdy, and super travel-friendly, so you can easily carry it in your bag without worrying about leakage.

Texture & Finish:

The texture is honestly the highlight of this product.

It’s a clear, smooth, gel-based formula that feels almost like a primer when you apply it. It glides effortlessly on the skin and blends within seconds.

No white cast, no stickiness, and absolutely no greasy feeling—which is such a relief, especially in hot and humid weather.

It leaves behind a soft, matte, velvety finish that actually makes your skin feel fresh rather than heavy.

My Experience with Ekran Soft Silicone Sunscreen Gel:

When it comes to sunscreens, I’ve always struggled with one thing—they either feel too heavy, too oily, or make my face sweat like crazy.

But Ekran Soft Silicone Sunscreen Gel turned out to be quite different.

A little backstory—at one point, I was dealing with dull-looking skin, and that’s when I decided to visit a dermatologist. She recommended a very simple routine: a good moisturizer, sunscreen, and just a light layer of powder to set everything. That’s when I was introduced to this sunscreen.

Since then, I’ve been using it along with my Cetaphil moisturizer underneath, and honestly, this combination has worked really well for me—even though I have dry skin.

From the very first use, I noticed how lightweight and breathable it felt. It didn’t clog my pores or cause any breakouts, which is always a concern, especially with sunscreens.

What I loved the most is the matte finish. My skin didn’t look shiny or greasy even after hours, and it actually worked beautifully under makeup—almost like a primer. And saying this from a makeup artist’s point of view—trust me, that’s a big plus.

During peak summer days, it helped reduce tanning and protected my skin whenever I had to step out in the sun. Of course, consistency is key with any sunscreen, but this one made it so much easier for me to stay regular because of how comfortable it feels.

Having already finished one tube and now using my second, I can confidently say this has become one of my go-to sunscreens for daily use.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Let’s be honest—every skin is different, and reactions can vary.

But in my personal experience, I didn’t face any irritation, redness, or breakouts while using this sunscreen. It felt very gentle and skin-friendly.

Still, if you have extremely sensitive skin, doing a patch test is always a safe choice.

Pros of Ekran Soft Silicone Sunscreen Gel (SPF 50+ PA+++):

• Lightweight and non-greasy formula.
• Gives a smooth matte finish.
• No white cast.
• Works well under makeup (primer-like effect).
• Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
• Helps prevent tanning and sunburn.
• Travel-friendly packaging.

Cons of Ekran Soft Silicone Sunscreen Gel (SPF 50+ PA+++):

• Might feel slightly dry for very dry skin types.
• Needs reapplication for effective protection.
• Slightly on the pricier side.

Will I purchase it again?

Yes, definitely! I’m already on my second tube, and it’s one of those sunscreens that you actually enjoy using—and that makes all the difference.

Will I recommend it?

Absolutely! If you have oily, sensitive, combination, slightly dry, or acne-prone skin and are looking for a sunscreen that feels light, non-greasy, and comfortable for daily wear—this is definitely worth trying.
It protects your skin without making it feel heavy, which is exactly what we need during summers.

And personally, I love how beautifully it sits under makeup—almost like a primer—which makes it even more practical for everyday use.

Price:

It retails for Rs. 760 for 50 g. (You may get it in discounted price depending on the pharmacy/website)

Shelf Life:

2 years.

Where to Buy:

Clinically - Here you ll get it in discounted price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ekran Soft Silicone Sunscreen Gel good for oily skin?

Yes

Does it leave a white cast?

No

Can it be used under makeup?

Yes

Is it suitable for acne-prone skin?

Yes

Can dry skin use it?

Yes

Makeup Artist Tip:

Because of its smooth silicone texture, this sunscreen works beautifully under foundation and helps create a more even base.

Related Reads:

Manual to Face Serums: A Simple Guide to Choosing What Your Skin Really Needs

Cetaphil DAM Moisturiser Review – Best Winter Care for Dry & Sensitive Skin

L’Oreal Paris Kajal Magique - Supreme Black Review

Stay Blessed, Be Happy..!! 😊

Preeti