Like Ripples On A Pond - Fernanda's Story

Bonjour

There has been such a marvellous, compassionate response to Sarah's story yesterday. It has resonated deeply with many of you and I have received many emails from people telling me their stories. Like ripples on a pond the beneficial effect of Sarah's inspiration is spreading out through the French Chic Community.

One such response I got was from Fernanda who, like Sarah, has agreed to me sharing her story to help others.

"Hello Marie-Anne,
Fortunately I did not lose anyone [see Sarah's story] but my suffering is also great.
I suffer from depression and this, in these pandemic times, is getting worse. Usually I don't feel like going out or even getting dressed in the morning. But knowing that I really can't do it and wearing everything that would give me pleasure, aggravates my condition a lot. Today, it is particularly one of those days. And following you on youtube, hearing you talk about how to dress a la francaise, has also helped me a lot. It makes me want to get dressed and go out to show off the beautiful things I have. Unfortunately it is not yet possible. But I am convinced that better days will come. Until then, I want to thank you for brightening up my sad days a little."

It is so sad to hear that people are suffering depression due to the current world crisis. Our lives, our plans, our hopes and dreams - everything has been put on hold. It is impossible sometimes to believe that we will get through this. But we will. Vaccines are being rolled out, lockdowns seem to be helping and people are, as ever, resourceful and steadfast.

But, what can you do, if like Fernanda, the weight of it all seems too much to bear? Here is what I suggested to her:

"Bonjour Fernanda,
Thank you so much for reaching out and I am so glad that my channel is helping.
Every day try to make just a little effort. It does not have to be much. Put a lovely scarf around your neck. Put on a pair of nice shoes to wear around the house - even if it is simply to sit at the table. Or pop on a bit of lipstick. The idea is to prove to yourself that you can take little steps. In that way, once you know you can take little steps, one day you may be able to take two little steps - put on a nice blouse and add some lipstick or a scarf. Or, put on a nice skirt with those shoes. It does not matter how long this takes - it is the process of doing so that can help - once you get used to the idea that you can - believe me ma chère you will.
Please let me know how you get on - keep in touch Best Wishes
Marie-Anne x"

I have found that when all seems too much, taking easy steps is a great way to keep moving forward. That sense of moving forward is so beneficial. Never allow yourself to get stuck. It may feel hard, it may feel impossible but I assure you - you can do it. I am here to help and support and encourage you.
There may be those who think that style is not important and can not help. I beg to disagree. Style reflects how we see ourselves and is a reflection of our our inner feelings. If we can show by our small steps our resilience in these times we improve our confidence and that improves our well being.
One thing I do, that I find helps me enormously to cope with the challenges I face everyday both through life and running my business, is journaling (see my free video here https://youtu.be/T-focA7cU5k). The process of writing down my thoughts and feelings allows me to see them for what they are - just thoughts and feelings. They are not obstacles to my happiness or my success in life. Like all problems they are there to be solved whether by a change in thought process or by action - you can find your solutions to your problems it only takes easy steps.

If you have a problem or an issue you believe may help others or if you would just like to write to me for advice please do so at [email protected]

I will always do what I can.
​
Let 2021 be Your Year of Change
Best Wishes
Marie-Anne x