Making The Most Out Of My Seasonal Depression

As someone who overthinks just about everything and can get so caught up in my own head about how awkward I might be in social settings, I’ve been challenging myself to do something that genuinely scares me. Putting myself out there and connecting with people.

I feel like somewhere along the way, especially after COVID, I lost a little bit of my ability to just be human around other humans. I got so comfortable in my own little bubble that stepping outside of it started to feel intimidating. But the truth is, I miss having a community. I miss connection. I miss finding people who make me feel like I have a seat at the table.

Don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore my Cronies. The amount of love, kindness, and light you all pour into my life is something I will never take for granted. This little online community has shown me just how powerful connection can be, even when we're miles apart. Some of the most meaningful relationships can start through a screen, and I think that's pretty freaking awesome.

But lately, I've also been craving more connections in person. So I've been making a conscious effort to find the event and SHOW UP. Even when I'm nervous. Even when I convince myself I'll be the awkward one standing in the corner. Even when that little voice in my head tells me everyone already has their people and there's no room for me.

Have you ever talked yourself out of something simply because you were worried about what other people might think of you? Or convince yourself that maybe you'll never find people you truly connect with?

I've started seeking out local pop ups, thrift events, arts and crafts gatherings, wine tastings, and really anything that sparks a little joy in me. Sometimes I bring my husband or a friend, and sometimes I go completely alone. I'm rediscovering things I love and, in the process, learning a little more about myself.

Something else I've been learning is that sometimes you outgrow people, friendships, and even versions of yourself. And that's okay. It doesn't mean those relationships weren't meaningful. It just means you're growing, and sometimes growth makes room for new connections.

I think we forget how important it is to feel connected to something outside of our everyday routines. We're not meant to do everything alone. We're meant to share stories, learn from each other, laugh, create memories, and find people who make us feel comfortable being exactly who we are.

And connection doesn't have to look the same for everyone. Maybe your people are in an online community. Maybe they're at a local book club, a workout class, a farmers market, or a random local little shop you stumbled into. Maybe it's one really good friend instead of a huge group. It doesn't matter how you find your people. What matters is that you feel seen, supported, and welcomed.

So here's my little encouragement to you today. Go find something that makes you happy and give yourself permission to show up for it. You don't have to be the most outgoing person in the room. You don't have to say all the right things. You don't even have to make a new friend every time you leave the house. Just give yourself the opportunity to experience something new.

And if you're someone who already has a community, make room for the person who might be showing up alone. Say hello. Invite them into the conversation. Make someone feel included. You never know how much that small act of kindness might mean to someone who had to work up the courage just to walk through the door.

There is something so incredibly special about finding people who lift you up, celebrate your weirdness, and let you geek out over the things you love AKA Cracked Polish lol.

Life is too short to spend it worrying about whether you're too much, too awkward, or not enough for other people. Your people won't make you feel like you have to shrink yourself to belong.

Whether it's online or in person, I hope you find your people. And if you're still searching, I hope you keep showing up. You deserve the world and all the things that make you happy.

Affiliate Feature

@nvrnudenails

"Your pearl finishes remind me of opulence and wealth. They make me feel like I’m the main character in my favorite books, in which the wealthy women kill their husbands or their husband’s mistresses, while dressed in vintage Chanel. You should make a collection based off that vibe with your pearl finishes." Destiny is wearing Sip Champagne

Some Special Moments The Cronies Have Shared With Me That Bring a Sense Of Community To Us All.

"My favorite is Sheer Serenity, because of my Nana. She only wears pink nail polish and I love to do her nails when I go to visit. Sheer Serenity has become her absolute favorite for good reason- its simply elegant! The following day she proceeded to share her nails with anyone we saw, and proudly exclaim "my granddaughter did them for me!" It's now my favorite pink in my collection because it reminds me of her." - Danielle N.

"Orange is my favorite color so I wore cornea killer for my birthday. I’m a vintage Polish collector who just discovered Cracked in March and I’m on a mission to own everything ever released, even the discontinued backlog. My collection grew from 0 to 268 so fast! I love this brand because the formula is incredible, the colors & names are unique & fun, the Cronies community feels like a safe corner of the internet to exist, & I love supporting a women owned brand! I know CK is OOS right now but I have lots of photos with other colors I love over on my IG ashleysparklenails." -Ashley H.

"The most special memory I have of wearing cracked is when my fiancé proposed to me. I was wearing Skelly Bones." -Brooke S. 

What Does A Strengthener Do? 

Think of this as a little extra love for your nails! This is great for you if you're constantly changing your polish or giving your nails a reset, this formula is designed to help keep your nails looking their best.

This treatment helps strengthen, hydrate, and protect your natural nails while improving flexibility to help prevent brittleness and breakage. It also creates a smooth, protective layer that helps your manicure last longer. Because who doesn't want stronger nails AND a longer lasting mani? It’s also beautiful on its own and gives you a pretty sheen on your nails you have to see in person.

So what does all the ingredients in the product actually do?

PMMA: Think of this as your nail's protective shield! This durable polymer creates a flexible, strengthening layer that helps improve polish adhesion, extend wear time, and reduce brittleness.

Sunflower Seed Extract: A little hydration goes a long way! This conditioning ingredient helps moisturize your nails, improve flexibility, and combat dryness that can lead to brittle nails.

Sodium Hyaluronate: Your nails deserve hydration too! Known for its moisture retaining properties, this ingredient helps keep nails hydrated, supports flexibility, and helps improve the appearance of ridges and dryness.

Vitamin E: A little extra TLC! This antioxidant helps condition and protect against moisture loss, leaving your nails looking healthier and more nourished.

How to use it?

Wear it alone for a subtle, healthy looking glow that gives your natural nails that polished I didn’t try look. Or use it underneath your favorite Cracked Polish shade as a strengthening base that helps your manicure go the extra mile.