From Burnout to Calm: Why I Left HR to Build a Softer Life
Anxiety has been part of my life for as long as I can remember.
Even as a child, I felt things deeply - often overwhelmed, always trying to do everything right. I learned early on how to keep it hidden, to keep showing up no matter how anxious I felt inside.
As I got older and stepped into a career in Human Resources, that pattern followed me. I was the helper, the fixer, the one who others turned to when things fell apart. And while I loved supporting people, the pressure of always needing to hold it together started to take its toll.
Work made my anxiety worse. The constant urgency, emotional labor, and impossible expectations wore me down slowly. I became burnt out and exhausted in a way that rest alone couldn’t fix. And yet, I still tried to push through.
Eventually, my body gave out. At the peak of my stress, I ended up in hospital with pneumonia. My immune system had crashed - and I truly believe it was linked to the anxiety, the burnout, and how long I had ignored my own needs. It was a wake-up call I couldn’t ignore.
I finally asked for help - from my GP, and from myself. I needed to do something radically different. I needed a softer life.
At the same time, my youngest son was struggling too. His anxiety was intense, and we were beginning the long process of exploring whether ADHD was part of his story. Seeing him overwhelmed broke my heart - especially when I recognised the same feelings in myself.
I knew something had to shift.
So I made a decision that terrified me: I walked away from the career I had spent years building. It felt risky. But I also knew I couldn’t keep sacrificing my health and peace - not for a job, not for anyone.
That’s how Kindle and Crayon began.
I started designing affirmation coloring pages as a gentle way to soothe my nervous system. At first, it was just for me and my son - a quiet, creative way to slow down and reconnect. But slowly, it grew into something more. I began making calming wall art, reminders that healing doesn’t need to be perfect. I added custom pet portraits too - because animals bring so much comfort, and let’s be honest, I’m a total dog person.
You can explore the pages that started it all here
Kindle and Crayon became more than a project - it became part of my healing. A place where softness, creativity, and self-compassion could live. Alongside the support of my GP and the people I trust, it’s helped me rebuild a life that feels manageable and meaningful.
Now, I get to share these creations with people navigating stress, anxiety, neurodivergence, or simply the heaviness of modern life. Whether you’re a teacher supporting students, a parent searching for calm, or someone just trying to get through the day - I see you.
I’m still on the journey. My son is too. But this slower, more intentional life has brought clarity, comfort, and real joy into our home.
If one of my pages, prints, or portraits can help someone else feel seen, grounded, or encouraged - then it’s all been worth it.
Thank you for being here. I hope you find something that speaks to you - or someone you love.
And if you’re looking for gentle tools to support anxiety, mindfulness, or creativity, I warmly invite you to explore the Kindle and Crayon Shop. Everything is created with softness and care, drawn from lived experience.
With warmth,
Alex 💛
