The 5 am sleeping club

A few days ago, my wife hosted her co-workers for post-dinner drinks.

They arrived at around 9 pm onwards and left only at around 5 am.

Normally, I’m in bed by 10 pm, and if guests linger past that, I’m yawning and hinting that it’s time to wrap up. Most times, I would just go to bed by 11 pm and let my wife entertain our friends while I slept.

But that night was different.

The conversation was engrossing, the energy was high, and when they left at 5 am, I realised I wasn’t really feeling tired.

More than just an unusually late night, it was a rare glimpse into a part of my wife’s world that I don’t usually see, yet a part that she spends most of her waking hours at.

It reminded me how easy it is to assume we know everything about our partner’s or loved ones’ lives, when in reality, there’s always more to discover.

That night, I learned a lot about my wife through the eyes of her co-workers. It made me appreciate her even more.

This made me reflect on the power of being fully engaged in the moment, even when it disrupts our usual routines.

Some of life’s best moments don’t happen on a schedule.

They happen when we stay just a little longer, listen a little deeper, and remain open to what the moment has to offer.

So, here’s to sleeping at 5 am once in a while.

Today’s Prompts

Being open

When was the last time you broke your routine and was glad you did?

Are you truly engaged in the moment amongst your friends, family or co-workers? How can you become more present?

How do I want to remember the moments of my life? Am I truly experiencing them, or just passing through?

Quote of the day

“Wherever you are, be all there.” – Jim Elliot

The 'If you don’t have time’ Prompt

Describe a moment in the last week where you felt fully engaged. What were you doing?

Get the most out of your journalling:

• Choose one prompt: Focus on just one prompt each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Be brutally honest: Reflect openly and honestly. This is your safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings.

• Take your time: Sometimes it takes a few days to clarify your thinking. Here’s permission for you to take your time to unravel a prompt and not take on any new ones during that time.

• Journal your way: Whether you prefer writing, audio recording, or video, choose the method that suits you best.

• Don't stress about streaks: If you miss a day, don't worry. You can always revisit a previous prompt.

I’d love your feedback

What was your favourite prompt of the day? Is there any specific challenge you want prompts for? How can I improve the content of the newsletter? Reply this mail and let me know!