From Burnout to Balance: Crafting My Raison d’Être

This reflective piece offers a personal exploration of the author’s raison d’être (reason for being). Drawing from real-life experiences — including caring for six senior cats, healing from burnout and PTSD, reconnecting with cultural roots and rediscovering creative and technological passions — the post blends vulnerability with resilience. While many may relate to themes of purpose, creativity and healing, the combination of lived details gives this post a distinct and original voice.

Disclaimer This post is a personal narrative based on the author’s individual experiences and perspectives. It is not intended as professional advice or general guidance. Readers are encouraged to reflect on their own journeys and consult relevant experts when needed.

✨What’s My Raison d’être?✨

(Or: Why I Haven’t Just Vanished into a Blanket Fort Forever)

We often hear the phrase “raison d’être” — that elegant French way of saying “reason for being.” Some people find theirs early. Others stumble across it during a midlife crisis involving cats, crystal or coding. And then there’s me.

So what is mine? I’ve asked myself that a lot.

🌿 Maybe it's Connection & Care

I live with six senior cats, three of whom have separation anxiety — from me. I am their emotional support human. Every meal, cuddle or meow is a reminder that I matter, at least to someone covered in fur. (And who still thinks 3AM zoomies are a valid life choice.)

🧠 Maybe it's Growth & Discovery

I work in ICT, but recently dove into learning AI. Add that to past creative chapters of crystal bracelet making, bookbinding and origami. There’s something in me that just can’t sit still — not mentally, anyway. Give me a problem to solve or something new to build and suddenly I’m alive again.

🧧 Maybe it’s Cultural Meaning

I carry stories, dialects and flavors from generations before me — Cantonese, Hakka, the scent of home-cooked meals, and the silence of languages now lost. I don’t just remember them; I try to honour them.

🌀 Maybe it’s Healing

I’ve been through the wringer — PTSD, burnout, doubting myself because of past work experiences (looking at you, Gen Z trauma). But I’m learning. Setbacks don’t spiral me out as long anymore. I bounce. Slower than a Super Ball, maybe, but I bounce.

😸 And maybe it’s simply this:

To love.

To create.

To honour what came before.

To forgive myself for what didn’t work.

To show up. Even if it’s with unbrushed hair and cat fur on my clothes.

So what’s my raison d’être?

A constellation, not a bullet point.

And that’s okay. 🌟