Hello, guys. Welcome back — and welcome to the first edition of What the Heck, Man? – Words of Wednesday for the second half of the year.
Yes, for the millionth time: the second half of the year begins in July. Not June. You June folks — please get it together.
The funny thing about this edition that you’re about to read—or hear—is that I’m writing it from a completely unexpected place. I didn’t plan to be here when crafting this particular post. But here we are. Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the mid-year What the Heck Man update.
And honestly, it should probably start with the signature line: What the heck, man? Because… where did the year go? I feel like I just wrapped up the 2024 review a second ago, and now we’re halfway through a new year. So, let’s get into it—here’s a real account of how things have been so far.
If I had to sum it up in one word, I’d say: good. It’s had its turbulent moments, sure, but overall, it’s been steady growth. Some parts of life have gotten a lot clearer, while others have fully closed—or at least been shelved for now.
Physically and mentally, it’s been a grind. Between the gym and making a real effort to get back into therapy, I’ve been putting in the work. But unlike past years, I finally feel like I understand how most of this is supposed to function. And that’s something I’m actually proud of.
There are still a few things I’m figuring out—some pieces that have pushed me to dig deep in ways I hadn’t really acknowledged before. I recently saw a video from my friend Toni, and she said something that stuck with me: it’s easy to think you miss someone—or something—because of hope. But really, a lot of that longing comes from the rush of dysfunction, not the actual person.
When you slow down and start peeling back the layers, you begin to realize you don’t actually miss them. You miss the version of yourself that was still holding on to the potential. That clarity only comes when you sit with yourself long enough to ask the hard questions—and be honest with the answers.
If I leave you with one thought going into the second half of the year, it’s this: hope can be dangerous. Hope without action, growth, or signs of life is a waste. Because eventually, all that effort you pour in can come back empty. And worse still, the person or thing you were hoping for might turn around and say, who asked you to do all that?
So, remember that the next time you feel tempted to overextend yourself or compensate for people who are either unwilling—or maybe just unable—to meet you where you are.
On a brighter note, fitness has been going well. I’ve dropped some weight—not that it’s the main goal—but more importantly, I’ve gotten stronger. I’ve been consistent. And I think it’s finally time I give myself credit for that.
I Met Jacob Banks
In a very random but beautiful twist, I just met Jacob Banks — one of my all-time favorite artists. Top 3 for sure, maybe top 5. I had a full 15-minute conversation with him about music, touring, performing in Nigeria, and more. It was so surreal.
I ran into him while heading to my flight back to the States. We just ended up talking. It was one of those really organic, fulfilling moments that didn’t require a selfie or a picture. The most I did was FaceTime my best friend — who absolutely lost her mind — and she even got to say hi to him too. Wild huh?
Beyond that, the past 24 hours have just been good vibes only. I spent quality time with friends, did cool stuff, and yeah — I’m flying today at 11:20, but was out till 4 a.m., in bed by 5:30, and by then, the sun was already out. No regrets.
Rest Is Productive Too
What stood out most during this trip was prioritizing rest. I made a conscious decision to not open my laptop, to disconnect completely — and it was one of the best things I could’ve done for myself. Just a few hours from now, I’ll get back to it. But for now, I’m holding on to this space.
I traveled through Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Albania, and wrapped it up in London. Albania was the last stop before London — and honestly, it was the best leg of the trip for deep rest and true recovery. London, on the other hand, felt like I stepped back into myself — recharged and realigned.
All in all, I’m just feeling grateful. This mid-year check-in is a reminder to rest, be present, and embrace the unexpected. On to the second half — let’s make it count, shall we?