Optimize with Jacqueline
It’s officially been six months since I started posting to this blog, and honestly… it’s been a journey. Some days I’m excited to create and share, and other days it feels overwhelming—like one more thing on an already full plate. But even with the ups and downs, I’m proud that I showed up, learned new skills, and tried something outside my comfort zone.
When I started this, I thought it could become a little side income stream. What I learned is that a “side hustle” can easily turn into a full-time commitment, and I’m not looking to add another job to my life right now. And that’s okay. Timing matters.
Lately work has been stressful, and that stress colored a lot of my earlier drafts of this reflection. I love being an engineer—but I’m ready for a new role, better mentorship, and a healthier work environment. I’ve been taking steps in that direction, and as of today, I found out I’ll be receiving an offer for a new job soon. That news felt like a huge weight lifting.
I’ve also been working on prioritizing myself—looking into stress leave to make room for therapy, and even exploring German citizenship and EU residency options down the line. Thinking about the future is less scary when you know you have paths available.
This week reminded me that emotions aren’t permanent. Monday and Tuesday were rough. Today feels better. Life shifts quickly.
Home projects have been a mixed bag—some wins, some headaches. The pergola looks great (carpenter ants aside), the sewing room is coming together, and there are a few projects that still need attention. But that’s real life, and honestly, I enjoy the hands-on work.
Which brings me back to this blog. I love the creative side of it—the website building, videography, writing, and trying new tools. But I’m realizing that what I really want right now is more space to focus on my home, hobbies, and personal life. I don’t need the pressure of turning everything into “content.”
I’ll still write about my travels and experiences, but more privately—sharing with friends and family who ask. And I might come back to blogging next year. Or I might not. I’m giving myself permission to pause.
The truth is: I accomplished exactly what I set out to do. I tried something new, I learned a ton, I created real content I’m proud of, and I proved to myself that I can build something from scratch. That’s a win.
So for now, I’m taking a hiatus. Maybe after a reset—and a new job—I’ll feel that spark again.
Until next year…
—Jacqueline
Optimize with Jacqueline 
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