The Posts & Pieces

 Moments in Time

Walking on Conversational Eggshells: Silence to True Self
Friendships & Intimacy Janessa Shaw Friendships & Intimacy Janessa Shaw

Walking on Conversational Eggshells: Silence to True Self

I used to call myself an introvert, not because I didn’t like people—but because I didn’t know how to be fully seen. After years of hiding behind that label (and a pandemic that stalled everything), I’m finally finding my way back. This post is about relearning how to talk, connect, and just be comfortable with myself—and realizing I’m not the only one still figuring it out.

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An Old Friend: Anxiety & Accountability
Friendships & Intimacy Janessa Shaw Friendships & Intimacy Janessa Shaw

An Old Friend: Anxiety & Accountability

This week I witnessed just how deep our collective anxiety runs—especially in the next generation. Behind the screens and silence is a feeling we all know too well. It’s not just a “kids these days” issue; it’s a mirror. And if we don’t start facing it now, we risk losing more than attention spans—we lose real connection.

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Parable of the Belonging: Giving Space
Friendships & Intimacy, Becoming Janessa Shaw Friendships & Intimacy, Becoming Janessa Shaw

Parable of the Belonging: Giving Space

This year, I made a quiet promise to myself: to show up more, connect deeper, and maybe even build something lasting. Inspired by The Parable of the Sower, I’ve been reflecting on what it really means to create community—not just to find like-minded people, but to grow with those willing to care, sacrifice, and trust. For the first time, I feel open. Not just in posture, but in mindset. And that shift is changing everything.

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Do Work and Friendship Mix or Am I Missing Something?
Friendships & Intimacy Janessa Shaw Friendships & Intimacy Janessa Shaw

Do Work and Friendship Mix or Am I Missing Something?

On my quest to better myself, I've been stepping out of my shell and meeting new people—especially at work. I've had coworker friends before, but they never made it beyond the office walls. It’s like the awkwardness of seeing your teachers outside of school until you break the ice. But once trust is built, that's when the real fun begins. Curious about navigating the tricky boundaries of coworker friendships and breaking free from workplace dynamics?

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You Got Time To Chat or Are You Closed?
Friendships & Intimacy, Becoming Janessa Shaw Friendships & Intimacy, Becoming Janessa Shaw

You Got Time To Chat or Are You Closed?

this post, I reflect on my journey as a creative soul, navigating the ups and downs of artistic expression and the pressure to meet societal expectations. As someone who has always loved hands-on art, I explore the disconnection I’ve felt lately between my creative passions and the content I produce online. I dive into the history of art’s transformation, from craftsmanship to aesthetics, and how this shift influences our modern views of creativity. Ultimately, I question the fine line between authenticity and external perception, as I search for a way to reconnect with the joy of creating simply for the sake of expression.

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Unveiling Secrets or Are You a Part of The Journey?

Unveiling Secrets or Are You a Part of The Journey?

In my 20th post, I reflect on the journey that brought The Unfinished Times to life, sharing the behind-the-scenes process of how I balance procrastination with my love for writing. From the early days of brainstorming to the final touches on my music covers, I reveal the creative flow that keeps me going each week. I also delve into the heart of why I write—how journaling and music have helped me process my emotions, and how I hope my blog creates a space where others can feel seen and heard. Looking ahead, I’m excited to expand this blog into the Co-Collective, a community where we can collaborate, grow, and express ourselves together.

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Do You Want Friend Groups or Is That a Thing of The Past?
Friendships & Intimacy Janessa Shaw Friendships & Intimacy Janessa Shaw

Do You Want Friend Groups or Is That a Thing of The Past?

The concept of friendship groups, inspired by her binge-watching of How I Met Your Mother. She dives into the challenges of forming meaningful connections in today's world, especially in cities like Sacramento where the lack of "third places" makes casual hangouts harder to come by. Through a mix of humor and nostalgia, Janessa explores the importance of putting effort into friendships, rejecting the myth that a smaller group is always better, and embracing the chaos and love of larger circles.

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