“I really love this book. It was just what I needed after lockdown. The words written comforted me like the hugs I used to get from my grandmother. It is strange how words from someone I do not know, can identify alienating feelings, revealing them as common. I think I would recommend this book to anyone who struggles with self-care and would like to do something about it.” – Marian
Jayne Hardy
WORD-Y | INQUISITIVE | CREATIVE
Doggedly determined and a naturally curious observer of life – definitely one of those “but, why?” kids. My biggest kerfuffle is that the number of ideas between my ears outweigh the life in my years. Having been on a somewhat convoluted path, writing has been the comforting constant with published articles aplenty, four traditionally published books under my belt, and a self-published book out in the wilds. A big believer that creativity begets creativity; you’ll find plenty of DIY projects as well as self-helpful stuff in the pages of my blog.
Some Happy Readers
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“Wow! I honestly thought that I knew what self-care actually is and also mistakenly thought I was quite good at looking after myself….and then I read this! Really clear to read, no jargon, helped me to think about how I treat my body and mind on a daily basis. It also helps provide you with the tools to manage and implement changes your own way to improve wellbeing in every way.” – E. Le Feuvre
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“I love all of Jayne’s books. There are so many times that I’m reading away and think “that’s me!” . I have struggled with self-care and boundaries all my life and always thought there was something wrong with me. Now I realise that there are others in the same boat and yes, people have been taking advantage of my knid , helpful nature. If this sounds familiar…you have to read this book!” – Rhonda
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“If there ever was a journal you needed then this is the only one to ever need. It’s inspiring and helpful and really gets you thinking of the root of what self care truly is. It’s dateless so that really helps when on the days when your head is too cloudy but on the other hand, writing it down clears that head. Throughly recommend also getting Jaynes first book too which goes beautifully with this one!” – Laura George
Writing
Behind the scenes, tips + tricks
Writing ➤ 7th October 2024
What It’s Like To Write Under A Pen Name
My sixth book (I can’t believe it!) is making its way into the wilds next year, and you won’t know it’s been written by me. You see, I wrote this book under a pen name because it was a writing commission and a slight departure from my other titles.
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Writing ➤ 19th April 2024
Do Ideas Come To You In The Shower? Here’s Why
This ‘ideas in the shower’ phenomenon is so well-known and experienced that you can even buy waterproof shower notepads! Those of us who have experienced it will know the sheer desperation of holding the idea in your mind’s eye while you scutter around naked, still soggy, trying to find something that’ll let you capture it before it disappears again.
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Writing ➤ 26th March 2024
Body-Doubling For When You’re Struggling to Focus OR Get Started On Tasks
You know how you hear about something new and then you hear about the same thing a few more times before you really take note? I was the same with Schitt’s Creek and in more recent times, body-doubling. The term ‘body-doubling’ is one I’ve only just learned about but it’s a notion I recognise as a mechanism I’ve used as far as I can remember to focus and get started on things.
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Writing ➤ 14th November 2023
These 5 Books Will Help You Become A Better Fiction Writer
There’s a lot of learning by osmosis that comes with being a fiction writer who reads a ton of fiction books. An innate understanding of the flow and rhythm and twists and turns within the stories of new and old.
Read MoreDIY Projects + Crafts
Ideas, how-to’s, inspiration + creativity
DIY Projects + Crafts ➤ 2nd December 2024
DIY Christmas Crafts: Baked Orange Garland
The scent of these baked oranges are up there with freshly cut grass, baked bread and chai latte, for me. A Christmas craft that’s ridiculously easy to do and one I do year after year…
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DIY Projects + Crafts ➤ 19th November 2024
Birthday Pottery Class: I made a Clay Ceiling Pendant
As I get older, the things I want to do to celebrate my birthday are getting more like a refined children’s birthday party and I not only love this for myself but for those who…
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DIY Projects + Crafts ➤ 9th October 2024
10 CHRISTMASSY colour palettes for you
Creating colour palettes brings me so much unbridled joy. Here are 10 Christmassy colour palettes for you to feast your eyes on and use in your festive projects.
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DIY Projects + Crafts ➤ 19th April 2024
This Crochet Pattern Makes The Cosiest Blanket
Our daughter is in her minimalistic preppy era and wanted a blanket for her bed which fit the brief. I found just the thing and then made it!
Read MoreEverything Else
Encouragement, self-helpfulness + random musings
Everything Else ➤ 14th June 2024
I Have Fallen in Love With My Eufy Robot Vacuum Cleaner
I decided to buy an Eufy Robot Vacuum Cleaner. My only regret is that I didn’t take the plunge sooner. You see, I’m in love. Completely and utterly bowled over.
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Everything Else ➤ 14th June 2024
The Highlights: The Creative Act by Rick Rubin
The Creative Act: A Way of Being is a book that’s packed to the rafters with philosophical, thought-provoking and inspiring reflections, written in a non-linear and personable way. You feel as though you’re sitting in a studio with Rick as he’s sharing these personal, anecdotal and, oftentimes, profound, insights.
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Everything Else ➤ 28th May 2024
How To Access All The Old blurtitout.org depression-related articles
From time to time, I’m asked if it’s possible to access all of the old articles we wrote on www.blurtitout.org. Thankfully, there is a way. It’s a little clunky so I’ll walk you through it.
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Everything Else ➤ 16th May 2024
Ways To Stay Motivated Until You Cross The finish Line
I have to pull out every trick in the book to stay motivated and get myself over the finish line with projects. Here’s how I handle it when my motivation inevitably wanes.
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