Creative Practice, Personal Growth Ruth Economy Creative Practice, Personal Growth Ruth Economy

Creating Problems: The Art of Staying With It

An exploration of the creative process—from the anxiety of a blank page and making the first mark, to the discipline, rest, and lived experiences that shape meaningful work. It reflects on how ideas form, why creative “problems” matter, and the tension between inspiration and execution. A meditation on staying with the process, trusting uncertainty, and continuing to create by choosing to begin.

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My Solo Cabin Trip: Fire, Fear, and Lake Superior

On a solo winter trip to a cabin in the woods of Wisconsin, I confronted fear, solitude, and my own self-reliance—learning how to keep a fire alive, navigate quiet nights alone, and cross the frozen expanse of Lake Superior on a guided ice cave tour. What began as a simple getaway became an exercise in trust, presence, and confidence, reminding me that growth often happens when we step into the unknown—alone, but not lonely.

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Why Are You Still Single?

At 31, with a life full of friends, travel, hobbies, and goals I’m proud of, it’s a question that keeps catching me off guard. After years of unhealthy relationships, repeating patterns, and dating fatigue, I finally took a step back to understand myself, what I truly want in a partner, and—most importantly—how to build a strong, whole relationship with myself. This is the story of learning to trust my intuition, set boundaries, and find peace and purpose in conscious singleness.

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Dissonance to Direction: Finding Your Purpose and Taking Action

After loss disrupted everything I thought I knew, I began questioning success, purpose, and the path I was on. What started as grief revealed a deeper dissonance—one that pushed me to listen to creative nudges, embrace vulnerability, and take action. This essay explores finding your purpose after loss and the courage it takes to move from uncertainty to direction.

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Travel and Reflection, Personal Growth Ruth Economy Travel and Reflection, Personal Growth Ruth Economy

2025 Wrapped: A Year in Stories

Join me as I look back on every blog I published in 2025, from travel adventures and personal growth stories to moments of reflection, connection, and resilience. Discover my journeys to Kolkata, Memphis, Japan, Montana, and beyond, and see how each experience shaped my year. Perfect for travel lovers, introspective readers, and anyone seeking inspiration, this recap celebrates growth, connection, and the stories that make life meaningful.

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Travel and Reflection, Personal Growth Ruth Economy Travel and Reflection, Personal Growth Ruth Economy

Montana Weekend Getaway: Peaks, Pines, and Friendship

I spent a magical weekend in Montana reconnecting with friends— old and new—in Whitefish and Lakeside. From hiking Lion Mountain Trail and taking in sweeping views of Skyles and Whitefish Lakes to cozying up by a fire under a supermoon, this trip was full of unforgettable Montana experiences. Between outdoor adventures, local eats, and quiet moments of reflection, I was reminded that true friendship and the beauty of Montana’s mountains stand the test of time.

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Babies & Bachelorettes: Navigating Friendship in Changing Seasons

Between baby showers and bachelorette weekends, I’m learning how friendships stretch, shift, and still hold. This is a reflection on mourning what was, showing up for what is, and making peace with your own timeline—even when everyone else’s looks different.

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Reunion in the Rockies: Hiking, Healing, and Holding On

I reunite with an old friend and rediscover the magic of connection. This heartfelt travel story follows a scenic journey through Alberta, Canada — from the quiet charm of Didsbury to the breathtaking beauty of Banff National Park. Along the way, explore how nature, friendship, and meaningful conversation can help us process the past and embrace the present. Whether you’re craving soulful travel, inspiration for reconnecting, or a dose of Rocky Mountain adventure, this reflective blog post is for you.

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Personal Growth, Life Transitions Ruth Economy Personal Growth, Life Transitions Ruth Economy

From Unraveling to Rebirth: Summer Renaissance 2023

Discover the transformative journey of letting go, taking risks, and finding purpose. In this blog, I reflect on a period of deep personal growth, inspired by the Region Beta Paradox, a life-altering breakup, and the pursuit of a more meaningful existence. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the comfortable, familiar, and “just fine” parts of life, this piece might resonate.

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Ruth Economy Ruth Economy

A First-Timer’s Journey Through Japan: Cities, Culture & Cow Tongue

In this follow-up conversation, Jenna shares the highlights of her unforgettable trip to Japan with her husband, Josh. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, she walks us through their favorite stops, unique cultural experiences, and even what it was like to soak in a traditional onsen for the first time. Whether you’re planning a future trip or simply curious about the country’s rich beauty and rhythm, this mini guide offers a candid, firsthand look at what made Japan so memorable.

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Between Grief and Graceland

Memphis was supposed to be a fresh start—an adventure to celebrate turning 30. Instead, it became a trip overshadowed by loss. In this deeply personal reflection, I navigate grief, family, and the weight of memories against the backdrop of a city rich in music and history. From Graceland to the Mississippi River, this journey was less about travel and more about finding meaning in the midst of sorrow. Read on for a story of resilience, connection, and the unexpected ways places can hold our pain and healing.

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Beyond Comfort: Finding Connection in Kolkata

Kolkata is a city of contrasts—overwhelming yet beautiful, chaotic yet deeply soulful. In the thick humidity and relentless noise, I found moments of pure connection: the shop owners who welcomed us like old friends, the children who beamed at their hand-drawn portraits, the strangers who offered chai and warmth without hesitation. It wasn’t always comfortable, but that’s where the magic of travel happens—beyond the ease of home, in the space where discomfort gives way to understanding.

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Finding Forward: The Art of Starting Again

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to storytelling—the way words create connection and give voice to what we feel but can’t always say. I spent much of my young adult life travelling and documenting my experiences through writing. But when I suffered a profound loss at 23, everything stopped. For years, I buried my passion beneath survival, trying to build a safe, conventional life. Yet something kept pulling me back—to the road, to writing, to the dreams I once abandoned. Now, I’m here, rediscovering my voice and sharing stories of travel, personal growth, and inspiration.

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