Hi everyone,

I’m not sure how to start this post. It’s a challenging post to write. I don’t expect everyone to be happy with my decision, but after all, it is mine to make.

It was a bit bizarre to wake up one day and realize that I no longer have the drive to improve my Spanish (a drive that had not failed me for ten years straight, mind you). I tried to rekindle the spark by starting a new language, but that didn’t work. I know that motivation isn’t necessary to keep studying--you can muscle it(1) with discipline. But here’s the thing: I have no substantial reason to keep learning. If I needed(2) motivation or discipline, I could generate it. But I don’t… so I won’t.

But what does this mean for(3) you?

Well, for starters, I’ll be taking a break from Journaly for at least a month, maybe longer but not shorter. Some day in early May, I will begin my break. Until then, feel free to spam me with messages and whatnot. But this isn't my last post.

I have three posts to write before my break.

1. A Spanish translation of this post
2. UX recs: Recommendations for a smoother UX (User Experience) on the Journaly website. (I actually changed plans here.)
3. An “interview” with @Cocopop. I plan to pick his brain(4) on(about) being bilingual from birth and the field(5) of editing. I miiiiiiight translate the questions and answers into Spanish as well; I’m not sure yet. Links: Questions, Answers Part 1, Answers Part 2: https://journaly.com/post/38302

Finally, I harbor no hard feelings toward anyone here. It’s been a fun ride(experience). If you have anything to tell me, you’re very welcome to say it! I don’t intend to leave you hanging(6).

Best wishes,

JGComm

Appendix

1. muscle it = to force a process or method to work while relying on a less-than-ideal source of willpower or energy. This is a very uncommon phrase that I might have hallucinated into existence.
2. In this case, the hypothetical is expressed as "needed" instead of "would need." I don't know why. You can ask Cocopop why.
3. What does this mean for you? = How does this affect you? vs What does this mean to you? = How do you interpret this?/What emotional connection do you have with this?
4. Pick [sb.’s] brain = ask many detailed questions
5. Field = industry, career
6. Leave [sb.] hanging = abruptly exit without having resolved relevant issues/duties