I might be the worst affiliate marketer ever. Let me explain. Let’s say you decide: “I want to spend more time outdoors. I want to hike more. I want to feel strong and a bit more in tune with nature.” What’s the first thing you do? You open a new tab. You start researching the perfect hiking boots. A durable backpack. A weatherproof water bottle. Some collapsible trekking poles. SPF lip balm. You know, the works. Are you lacking shoes at home? No. Could you just go for a walk in the nearest park in your old trainers? Absolutely. But still, we wait. For the gear. For the right moment. For readiness to arrive.
The myth of readiness
In truth? The only way to do the thing is to do the thing. You get better at hiking by hiking. You grow more confident speaking by speaking. You become more organised not because you bought a fancy planner, but because you showed up and made time for what mattered. And now, the suicide note (aka affiliate honesty). Yes, I sometimes recommend tools. A journal. A meditation app. A skincare line I genuinely love. And sometimes, I make a small affiliate commission when you buy through my link. That’s how I fund the content I create.
But here’s what I’ll say that most affiliate marketers won’t: Not every tool is going to change your life. Not every product I use is going to work for you. And sometimes, the last thing you need is more stuff.
Do this instead
Before buying anything, especially in the name of “improving” yourself, pause and ask: Will this help me take action now? Am I using this to avoid doing the real work? Can I do the first 10 percent without buying anything new? Because chances are: you can. And when you do – when you take even the tiniest step before the tools – you’re already rewriting the script.
I do believe about tools
I’m not against gear, journals, apps or clever gadgets. I love good design. I love thoughtful recommendations. I will always share things that genuinely help me or bring me joy. But tools should support the journey, not delay it. That hiking boot won’t walk you to the top. That grammar book won’t speak on your behalf. That beautifully packaged wellness box won’t build your habits for you. Only you can do that.
So why I still share
When I do recommend something – whether it’s a skincare set or a speaking framework – I’m not saying: “This will fix your life.” I’m saying: “This helped me keep going when I almost gave up.” “This made things a little easier.” “This reminded me I’m worth showing up for.” That’s all. That’s enough.
If you’re still with me…
Here’s my invitation: Don’t let readiness become your excuse. Don’t wait for the perfect gear, the perfect words, the perfect moment. Want to hike? Go walk today. Want to speak more confidently? Record yourself for 30 seconds today. Want to change your life? Show up – even if it’s messy, half-formed and totally unprepared.
Start where you are. Use what you have. Let the tools come after. And when you’re ready for them – and you want an honest recommendation from someone who’s actually used the thing? I’ll be here. With my links. With my unfiltered opinions. And hopefully – with your trust. PS. If you do want to know what I’m currently using or loving – from journaling tools to skincare to public speaking guides – check out my Instagram account. I update it regularly and only list what I’ve personally used. But remember: the best investment you can make isn’t in a product. It’s in showing up. And you don’t need a checkout cart for that.