Midlife Blog crises and Burnout plus Broken Things: A Love Story? Maybe!

Because who really needs emotional stability when WordPress is throwing errors, Google decides you’re irrelevant, and imposter syndrome becomes “you are” your most loyal coworker? Definitely not me. Nope. I’m thriving—if thriving means spiraling dramatically while sipping lukewarm coffee and rage-refreshing my dashboard.

Lately, burnout and I have been doing a slow, sad cha-cha. One minute I’m updating a plugin that claims to boost my site speed (spoiler alert: it doesn’t), and the next I’m questioning everything from my content strategy to whether SEO is just modern-day digital sorcery.

And let’s not even talk about the sweets I stashed for “emergencies”—because I’ve eaten them all. Apparently, emotional snacking is now my brand.

The joys of being a digital content creator in 2025? Pure bliss. Absolute serenity. A dream come true. (Please note the sarcasm.)

I miss two weeks ago. Back then, I was on a creative high—reading, writing, working out, skipping around the kitchen like the Annie Leibovitz of brunch photography. Now? I’m re-editing posts from 2010, questioning my life choices, and wondering why I ever thought a 3MB photo of a cheese soufflé was web-friendly.

For context, I run two blogs. Because clearly one wasn’t enough chaos. Between SEO audits, recipe overhauls, book writing, painting for my shop, gardening, and trying to keep up with social media—burnout didn’t just knock. It moved in and unpacked.

My other food blog alone has over 500 recipes. At least 120 need a full digital glow-up: broken links, outdated SEO, cringey intros from a more innocent (read: pre-algorithm) time, and recipe cards that look like relics from dial-up days.

And here’s the kicker: I know how to fix things. I can tweak CSS, wrangle HTML, change things on my own, and rage-install plugins like a champ. But ask for help? Pfft. That would be too easy. Instead, I cry into my coffee and whisper, “It’s fine. I’m fine. Everything’s fine.” (Yes, that actually happened.)

But here’s the thing—I’m not quitting.

Because even through the chaos, the glitches, the Google ghosting, and those dramatic late-night internal monologues, I still believe in blogging. I believe in connection, in honest storytelling, in creativity that comes from the heart—even when it’s messy, raw, unfiltered, and real.

Here on Mug of Reality, I’m not chasing pageviews—I’m just being me. This space isn’t about numbers or going viral. It’s about showing up honestly and sharing the things I love, without the pressure to perform.

I started this blog because I wanted a corner of the internet where I could be fully myself. No filters, no fuss—just real thoughts, real stories, and whatever’s on my heart that day. And hey, if all it ever earns me is $0.39 or $0.81 Google AdSense? That’s fine. Because the value for me is in having a place where I can be Sanna, unedited.

Sure, Sandra’s Easy Cooking is mine too. But over there, it’s more about recipes—less about me. It is after all a website that makes money and my main source of income.

I used to tell stories, share childhood memories, and talk about why a dish mattered to me. But somewhere along the way, a few loud voices said, “Can you just skip all that and get to the recipe?” And something in me quietly shifted.

I stopped sharing the heart behind the food and started giving people what they asked for—quick tips, clean instructions, polished content with beautiful pictures.

But this space? This one’s different.

This one’s for the messy middle. For the rambling thoughts, emotional rants, creative chaos, fun book reviews, recipes with my heart in it and everything in between. It’s my reminder that storytelling still matters—even if it’s just for me.

And hey—this storm? It’ll pass. They always do.

So if you found your way to this emotional rollercoaster of a post—thank you. Seriously. You, dear reader (yes, even if it’s just 20 of you), are the reason I keep showing up. Even when I’m sleep-deprived and my analytics graph looks like a ski slope on a bad day.

This isn’t a breakdown.

It’s a creative reboot. A digital detox. A search-engine-optimized soul search.

Stay tuned. I’m not just updating plugins, pictures, and rewriting content—I’m updating my purpose in this digital world.

Hugs to all that need one today… because God knows I need a big bear one.

– Sanna <3

All my Journal ramblings are HERE.

You can follow me on

FaceBook: @MugOfReality

Instagram: @mugofreality

Pinterest: @MugOfReality 

And tag me if you make any of my recipes, or if you read any books that I recommended. Or if I helped you in anyway get through. I am always here to help!

My First journal post:

Finding Myself: Rediscovering Life Through Passion and Purpose

When the Friendship Fades Finding Peace in GOODBYE!

I’ve always been the kind of person—even as a kid—who hesitated to speak up, afraid of offending someone. Friends, family, coworkers, strangers… that fear of being too much or saying the wrong thing never really left me.

I wasn’t sure if I wanted to write this. It feels too personal. But that’s usually how I know I should—because I have this feeling that I’m not the only one who’s felt, or still feels, this way.

Friendships.

You’d think by now, at 45, I’d have it all figured out—including friendships. But I’m still learning, especially how to let go and notice when I am being replaced. I’m also learning to stop chasing closure that will never come.

For years, I exhausted myself overanalyzing friendships that faded into silence—the ones who took weeks (or months) to reply, the ones who only reached out when they needed something, the ones I thought were real… until they weren’t.

And I’d spiral.

Questioning myself.

Did I say something wrong? Was I too much? Not enough? Were my walls too high?

It took me longer than I’d like to admit to realize I am not the problem.

Some people expect you to shrink yourself to fit their comfort. Others build an image of you in their mind—a version you could never live up to. And some… well, some only love you when it’s easy.

This isn’t about blame. It’s about clarity. It’s about realizing that real friendship shouldn’t leave you questioning your worth.

For so long, I played the role of the accommodating friend. This is a true story. The one who never said no. The one who made excuses for others but never for herself. And honestly? That’s fake. And if there’s one thing I can’t stand, it’s fake people.

The irony?

I became one.

When I realized it, it was most definitely a “WTF” moment!

I smiled, pretended it didn’t bother me, buried the hurt. Because if I spoke up—if I let them see the real me and how I felt—they might leave.

And that would be my fault, right?

Ha. I told myself it was kindness, but really, it was fear. Fear that if I spoke up, I’d be the problem. That I’d be left behind—again.

This might sound like I’m crying for attention, but on the contrary, I’m just sharing my feelings, fears, and resolutions… and what I’ve learned in these 45 years.

So maybe that fear wasn’t unfounded. Because when I finally stopped overextending myself in one-sided relationships, many of them disappeared.

I used to see that as my failure.

Now, I see it as my freedom.

I haven’t stopped caring—I’ve stopped proving my care to people who don’t value it. There’s a difference.

And I wholeheartedly welcome new friendships. I will never lose hope that there’s someone out there who will stick around—someone just as wonderfully crazy as me.

At the end of the day, I turn to my husband—my best friend—and my amazing kids. Because no matter how imperfect we are, we show up for each other. My husband is brutally honest, and sometimes, that honesty stings like hell. But it’s what I’ve always needed—honesty and loyalty. And that, my friends, is rare.

I would move mountains for a real friend. I am loyal to the bone. But if you betray me, you won’t get the chance to do it three times because, believe it or not, I always give second chances.

I have a few online friends who are my ride-or-die, and I’m so grateful for them. But sometimes, I wonder… would it be the same if they lived closer? Would they grow bored of me? Would I eventually be too much?

That voice of self-doubt still lingers. Maybe it always will.

Maybe I push people away. Maybe I hold back too much.

Or maybe—just maybe—I’ve finally learned to protect my peace.

I used to think my “toxic trait” was avoiding people and then complaining that no one sticks around. I blamed it on moving too much, on my trust issues, on distance.

And honestly? I am jealous of people who still have childhood friends in their 40s or 60s. I have one, but continents and decades apart have made us strangers.

But I’m done blaming myself. I’m done blaming my parents. Their choices shaped me, but they don’t define me.

Here’s what I do know:

The people who are meant for you will never make you beg for space in their lives.

So I’m walking forward with my head held high. Because there is nothing wrong with me.

I’ve never been lonely, and I won’t start now. I’ve always enjoyed my own company—my thoughts, my peace. And I finally realize… that’s not a flaw. That’s who I am!

So, instead of overanalyzing, I’m choosing to be here, in the present. To be whole on my own and, of course, with my family.

To focus on the people who choose me—not just when it’s convenient but because they truly see me. Because those are the ones who matter.

This feels like a weight has been lifted. Thanks for coming to my TED Talk.

Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts. It’s always comforting to know I’m not alone in this.

Sending you a big virtual panda hug if you need one.

With love,

Sanna

Similar Posts:

It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: My Journey to Healing and Self-Care

Becoming Enough: The Work of Self-Healing

I think everyone should journal, so here is one I just found:

Self-Love Journal for Women: Prompts and Practices for Your Journey to Self-Worth, Self-Care, and Self-Acceptance by Jordan Brown

What is January Reset? January is a time to breathe deeply, reset your focus, and set the tone for the year ahead. It’s not about massive overhauls, but about making small, intentional changes that add up to a big difference over time.

This month, I’ve been embracing simple shifts—like daily walks, decluttering my home, and rethinking my habits. These aren’t grand gestures, but they feel like a fresh start, and I’m loving every second of it.

If you have never been into self care this is the time to try. Your body, mind, and environment reset is also self care. It is about creating simple, intentional habits to feel refreshed and balanced. I have been focusing on nourishing my body with wholesome meals, staying hydrated, and moving daily, even if it’s just a walk.

I carve out time for relaxation, like journaling, skincare, or reading, and set clear boundaries to protect my energy. Prioritizing quality sleep is key, so I stick to a consistent bedtime routine and avoid distractions before bed. By making small, mindful changes, I can reset my January and feel more grounded moving forward.

It’s never too late to start making a change. No matter where you are in life, the best time to begin is when you feel ready. The start of a new month can feel motivating, but the truth is, any moment you choose is the perfect time to reset. Don’t overthink it—trust your instincts. When you feel that pull in your gut, take it as a sign and go for it!

Fuel Your Body with Intention:

Food prep and portion control have been game-changers for me. Instead of late-night snacking while reading or watching TV (a habit I’m guilty of), I focus on mindful eating. I don’t eat breakfast but instead break my fast around noon, which works wonders for my energy and focus.

Soon, I’ll be starting a “Lunch Box” series to share my mid-day meals and why they work for me. Intermittent fasting isn’t for everyone, but for me, it’s brought a sense of balance and control to my day.

I’ve also started incorporating Daily Super Greens powder into my routine. It is prebiotic and probiotic, and I’ve never felt more energized!

To refuel after workouts, I’ve been enjoying healthy snacks like Greek yogurt bowls. They’re a great way to boost protein and fiber intake—just enough to keep me energized without overdoing it.

Refresh Your Space:

There’s something therapeutic about changing your bedding, washing old sheets, and letting your room feel like new.

Decluttering has been another major focus for me this month. I’ve made peace with letting go of items that no longer serve me—those things I’ve kept “just in case” but never actually used. I’m also rethinking my purchases, making a conscious effort to only buy what I truly need and repurpose what I already have. 

Things are just things, and letting go feels lighter, freer, and so much better.

Move Your Body, Find Your Joy:

I’ll be honest—working out isn’t my favorite thing to start, but I never regret it when I’m done. Whether it’s a walk, a dance session, or lifting weights, I try to keep it fun and varied because I get bored easily.

Lately, I’ve been experimenting with YouTube dance videos—Zumba, hip-hop, and even dance workouts with weights—and it’s been such a joy to move in ways that don’t feel like “exercise.”

This year, I’m focusing more on weightlifting to strengthen my body as I head into my mid-40s. It’s not about bulking up; it’s about preparing for the future and feeling strong and capable in my skin.

Inhale, Exhale, Let Go:

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that it’s okay to let go—of things, habits, and even people who don’t bring joy or peace into your life.

For too long, I’ve held onto relationships and worries that didn’t serve me. Now, I’m focusing on the present and the people who love and support me. 

Meditation has been a huge help in this process. If you’re new to it, find a guided meditation that resonates with you and just start. It’s amazing what you can release when you give yourself that quiet space to breathe and reflect.

Fixing Sleep Schedule:

To reset my sleep schedule and consistently go to bed before midnight, I’ll set a fixed wake-up time and stick to it every day, even on weekends. I’ll gradually move my bedtime earlier by 15–30 minutes each night until I hit my goal.

I’ll create a relaxing nighttime routine, like dimming the lights, avoiding screens, and doing something calming like reading or meditating an hour before bed. I also cut back on caffeine and heavy meals in the evening and make sure my bedroom is comfortable, dark, and cool for better sleep.

I don’t like sleeping in warmer rooms even during winters, especially now that hot flashes hit unexpectedly. Try sleeping in a cooler room. I am sure that it will be one of your best sleeps.

Journal Your Heart Out:

Writing has always been my therapy, my creative outlet, and my way to process life. I don’t journal every day, but when I do, it’s a chance to pour out my thoughts, reflect on my emotions, and clear my mind.

Sometimes, journaling sparks creativity—I’m hoping it’ll inspire me as I work on my next story. Whether you write by hand or type on your phone, journaling is a powerful tool for self-discovery and emotional release. 

It’s a bit like meditation: a safe, private space to let your thoughts flow without judgment.

Take this month to refresh your habits, nurture your body and mind, and reflect on where you want this year to take you. Every small step you take now will ripple through the months ahead, creating a foundation for growth, strength, and joy.

• Please let me know in the comments what you have to do to reset your body, mind, and space around you?
• Would you try resetting for a month or maybe a week?

Check out all my latest posts HERE 

P.S. I am working on Februaury Reset! 🙂

Sending love and warm hugs to anyone who needs them.

Love,

S A N N A

You can follow me on Instagram and Pinterest, @mugofreality

I just started a Facebook Page. If you are not on Pinterest or Instagram I thought FB is a great way to catch up with my latest posts.