Permission to Fail…

Gulp

Feb 09, 2024

For many of my friends, I have been the go-to girl for the “what should I” conversations. What should I wear to this function, where should I travel next, what product should I use, what’s a good place to get a good sweat? They ask me because they know I am a hyper-fixator addicted to quality experiences. Each month, it seems, I pick new themes to obsess over. I'm constantly working to elevate my life and zero in on the places, products, books, artists, gadgets, etc. that bring impactful results and genuine joy. That being said, I believe it's important to note that I don't wish to have a lot of things in my life. I dislike clutter, influencer culture, transient trends and things (or people) that do not leave me feeling energetically raised and at peace. My obsession with trying new things is not fueled by a love of stuff itself— (i.e. cabinets full of rainbow-colored product bottles or closets full of trendy shoes and handbags). Quite the opposite. I dream of simplicity and a true quality and purpose of all things. I wish to move forward only with what truly serves me (physically, mentally, spiritually) and feel confident discarding all else.

Over time I've realized that the only way to get there is through. I must try everything for myself to be sure that I have found the sweet spots. So, I’ve decided to start this newsletter to share with you all that ‘India’s into'. (Side note: I did not want to reference myself in the third person, and I will never do that again - but for the sake of tying it all together, it made sense.) Every month I will share the things I have picked up and the things I've left behind—simple really. Whether that be a beauty product I’m loving, a new artistic medium I’m exploring (photography, video, etc.) or even just a quote that’s lingering in my mind — this is really just a free-form journal to express what’s inspiring me. My hope is that in sharing this with you, I encourage myself to explore deeper and to be more present while doing it.

While I don't think that any one of you needs one more 24-year-old girl on the internet telling you what to do or what not to do, this one is selfishly for me. For so long I’ve felt stuck in my own fear of trying things. I convinced myself that in order to try something new, I had to be sure I wouldn't fail because failure would lead to embarrassment, shame, and self-doubt—feelings that don't necessarily sit comfortably. But as I thought about it, I've never once judged anyone for sharing a passion project. I genuinely admire those who put themselves out there, so I challenge myself to do the same. I have no idea if anything will come from this, but putting things into motion and giving myself permission to fail for the first time is more than enough for me. So, without further ado - here are a few things that I’m into.

*Links attached at bottom*

Kim Krans - The Wild Unknown Decks

I have been using these decks for a few years now, and I highly recommend them to anyone looking to connect further with themselves and have some fun while doing it. The animal spirit deck is a great place to start. Whether you're looking for some inspiration, a different outlook on a situation, or a fresh perspective on a tough decision, the deck always lends a hand. I also highly recommend the Archetypes deck for a bit of a deeper read. I could go on explaining the inner workings of each deck, how to pull cards, and the magic that unfolds, but Kim Krans explains it best in her guidebooks that come with each deck. For me, I've found that it strengthens my intuition and brings me closer to my friends and family when we pull cards together. (They also look cool on a bedside or coffee table). It's a really fascinating journey, and I encourage you to start here.

The Wild Unknown Decks

LED Light Therapy Mask

I am fully obsessed. Not only does it visibly reduce my skin's redness, discoloration, and breakouts, but it also allows me to be still for 20 minutes a day. I put on the mask and lay in bed quietly, knowing that I am taking time for myself. I've seen this trend all over, but I was wary to click 'pay now' with the expensive price tag of over $300. However, after doing some research, I found this one for under $70, and I can truly attest that this thing is really worth it. It brings me so much joy and relaxation.

Light Therapy Mask

Photoshoot

My sister bought herself the CANON PowerShot SX740 HS Black for Christmas, so we decided to have a spur of the moment photoshoot that morning. This is an easy, user-friendly camera and the quality is fab. Working together on spontaneous projects like this always leaves us feeling super connected and energized. This one was especially fun as it takes place in my childhood bedroom in New York City. I’d love to use this space to post more fun projects like this one in the future.

CANON PowerShot SX740 HS Black

'Leaving Loneliness: A Workbook’ by David Narang (Ph.D.)

My boyfriend purchased this workbook on attachment styles, and it's been super eye-opening for me. The author is not preachy or looking to enlighten; he's just super smart, has researched attachment styles, and has a genuine interest in helping others become more secure. It starts by explaining the key qualities of people with anxious, avoidant, and secure attachment styles. This allows the reader to best identify with one or two or all and then explore deeper. He then provides exercises to guide reflection. Doing a few of these exercises a week has provided me with an outlet for genuine self-discovery without pressure or tension. I highly encourage this workbook for anyone looking to feel more secure in their relationships. Breaking generational trauma is cool and fun—who knew!

Leaving Loneliness: A Workbook

Merit Beauty Tinted Lip Oil - Sangria

This is absolutely the perfect shade of red for the winter. I haven't colored my hair in quite a few months, so I suddenly woke up one morning as a pale brunette? This new brunette lifestyle paired with my sangria lip is quite sexy and fun. Be wary that you do need to reapply a few times throughout the night, but the color and overall feeling of the gloss are worth it - plus I have received many compliments! I don't love sticky lip products (i.e., Rhode)—I am a Vaseline lover, and swiping this on top is wonderful. Also, I must note that I love all of Merit Beauty products: the concealer, the cream bronzer, the mascara. But if you had to start somewhere—start with a lip, and if you had to discard one place—remove the eyeshadow from the cart. Enjoy!