I am not a perfect person. Far from it, to be honest. But this week, I’ve started to accept those imperfections—not as something to be ashamed of, but as something I can learn from. Tools I can use to grow, to evolve, to become better.

As my first full work week at my new job comes to a close, I had to stop and remind myself: I’m doing something I’ve never really done before. Not like this.

I’m a new person in a new work environment, in a new home, in a new country.

Of course everything isn’t going to go smoothly. Honestly? Most things probably won’t.

The world isn’t always going to live up to your dreams 100% of the time, exactly the way you imagined. That’s just a fact of life. So you take the good, you take the bad, and somewhere in between… you find your balance.

On its own, the job is fantastic. I’ve met some really great people, and I can already tell it’s going to be a lot of fun—once I start making enough money to survive. But again, that’s going to  take time. 

Patience is something I must force myself to learn.

For now, I just have to remind myself that I do have enough to keep going… as long as I learn how to be a little more frugal (haha I’m going to starve)!

Outside of work, this week was stressful but progress was made.

I sent the draft of My Super Fiancé Volume 2 to my publisher. I connected with my artist about the next set of episodes, which should drop in June. I opened my Japanese bank account, finished my U.S. taxes, and officially turned off my American cellphone.

Out with the old, in with the new. 

I’m not a tourist here anymore. Japan is now my home – and that fact alone made me smile. 

And in those small but very real victories—I can now get to and from work without relying on Google Maps. However, I’ve heard it said that getting lost is the best way to find out where you are – so I very much intend to do that, on purpose this tie. 

I also picked up Travis Japan’s newest CD single and pre-ordered Naniwa Danshi’s ND5 (and before anyone judges me—these are absolutely essential life purchases).

I also found some Sailor Moon coasters – I am OBSESSED with – cute and practical!

At the end of it all, I’m exactly where I feel I need—and want—to be.

I’m happy. And right now, that’s what matters most.

Because adventures are supposed to be a little scary. If they weren’t, they wouldn’t be adventures at all.

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous. But I’m also incredibly excited for what’s ahead.

I just have to remember to give myself the grace to stumble—because I will.

And honestly? That’s part of the fun.

There will be more soon, so…

Stay tuned.