Dublin Diaries #5: Listening

Cliffs of MohEr, Ennis and Limerick

This past week was one of the most physically demanding since moving here. Work-wise, I had to be in the office early in the mornings and a few late nights, but I am learning so much and feeling truly fulfilled and energized by what I do. I am absolutely loving it, but I'm also realizing that I'm only human. I need to listen to my body and get more sleep. It’s hard to stop when you're feeling so inspired, but I need to get better at finding that balance.

One big reflection I had this week is the importance of listening — not just to my body, but to others as well. I’m learning that people often don’t communicate deeper thoughts beneath the words they speak out loud. I’m trying to decipher what people really mean and where they’re coming from beyond face value. Being a good listener requires truly hearing what someone is saying, as there is often a hidden meaning or underlying motive driving their words. I’m also focusing on listening to myself more: what my body is telling me, and what my heart and mind are saying. I want to get more in tune with myself and give myself space to listen to my inner voice.

Despite being physically tired, I played tourist again this weekend and I had the best day on Saturday! I woke up super early and headed out on a full-day tour to the Cliffs of Moher, which has long been on my bucket list. I got terrible carsickness on the bus ride there, but the views were completely worth it! A moment of silence for my bus driver, Murphy, who gave me a plastic bag and let me sit at the front when I thought I was going to hurl. Not all heroes wear capes! The scenery was spectacular and it was very windy, but I loved every second of it, especially getting to walk along the cliff edge.

From there, we visited one of the cutest towns I’ve ever seen: Ennis. I loved window shopping and strolling through its adorable, quaint, and charming streets. I bought myself the most adorable white sweater I have ever seen! Next, we went to Limerick, which was cool and felt a bit like a mini Dublin. The bus ride back was long, but it was so worth it to see all of those places. West Ireland is absolutely stunning, and I can't wait to explore more. I loved seeing all the cows along the way; I truly felt like I was in a movie. I can't believe I've already been here for just over a month. It still feels like a dream to live in such a beautiful place.