Getting comfortable with discomfort: My post-US journey

The Return and the "Plan Without a Plan"

It's been a little over a month since I landed back in Brazil. In that time, between unpacking and organizing my life, I've been able to reflect on a journey that began so suddenly.

My trip to the US didn't follow a set script. I went without a plan, but I took advantage of the city's vibrant film scene to immerse myself in courses in my field. To stay longer and complete my film studies, I took on an unexpected challenge: an MBA. It was only when the stress of the visa issue passed that I was able to see the opportunities God was placing in my path. I lived the dream of living abroad and, more than that, I learned firsthand what it means to let God be in control.

The Perfection Block

I've always considered myself a creative person, but I confess: I have enormous difficulty showing my talent. For a long time, I thought it was fear of judgment. Today, I understand that the name is different: perfectionism .

This desire to avoid mistakes is such a huge barrier that, many times, I wouldn't even start something because I wasn't sure if it would be good enough. It was to break this cycle of self-sabotage that, while still in the US, I decided to start a vlog. I needed to take the first step without overthinking it. I started recording without a plan, and my sister took over the editing—the perfect partnership to eliminate excuses about lack of time between two courses, working at a restaurant, and the responsibilities of living alone.

A Change of Perspective

I'll be honest: when I decided to go back, I felt frustrated. I looked back and didn't see the film job I wanted so badly. I felt like my creative projects had been sidelined.

But, as I packed my bags, I realized the magnitude of my true achievements. I built unique friendships, developed a resilience I didn't know I possessed, and grew in areas I never imagined venturing into. I learned that when we let go of control, the journey—even if tiring and rushed—is filled with good company, laughter, and everyday miracles.

The Journey is the Destination

Comparing my "pre-US" self with my current self, I see that the most valuable lesson was losing the fear of making mistakes. It may sound like a self-help phrase, but it's the purest truth: the journey is the real object of desire, not the destination.

I learned to be grateful for the hardships and the victories. I understood that bad days are part of the process; after all, a good story needs its ups and downs to be interesting. Sadness is there to remind us of the value of joy.

The Next Step: Thread of the Story

I'm returning to where I started, but I'm not the same person. My plans now involve dedicating more time to creativity and continuing to share this journey with you.

I want Thread of the Story (Fio da Meada) to be more than just a project; I want it to be a welcoming community, like that good conversation between friends where we vent about difficulties and celebrate victories. I'll continue with the vlogs, gradually adding more script and production, but without waiting for "perfection" to act. I'm learning to be comfortable with discomfort.

I invite you to be a part of this. Shall we do it together?

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Thread of the Story

"Thread of the Story" is a personal project that combines blog and vlog to share stories, reflections, and experiences about creativity, faith, and personal development. The name "Thread of the Story" symbolizes the journey of discovery and growth, where each story interweaves like a thread weaving a greater narrative. I share my creative processes and storytelling, reflections on faith and Christian life, my pursuit of healthy habits, as well as travel experiences and personal discoveries. The goal is to create a space for authentic connection, where people can identify with the stories and find inspiration for their journeys.

Subscribe to my YouTube channel so we can begin this journey together!