Two months ago, I shared that I was pausing my monthly practice of leading cuddle events. That decision still feels clear and grounded. I even donated my floor cushions to the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Monica. I like the idea of them circulating in the world and doing some good, rather than continuing to sit – somewhat absurdly – in my bathtub.
I made another decision, too. Rather than continuing to teach group classes for professional cuddlers, I’ve started referring people to Cuddlist. After eleven years immersed in this work, I’m becoming more discerning about where I can contribute most meaningfully—and thank goodness, Cuddlist’s training is excellent. (More about them at the end.)
Big Questions
These two professional choices have uncluttered both my thinking and my website. More importantly, they’ve opened up bigger questions: What should I do with my talent, creativity, precious energy, and time?
Living in the United States, I follow the work of Heather Cox Richardson. Through her deep understanding of our country’s past and present, I’ve come to feel that we are living inside a historical moment. So I find myself asking: What’s my move?
Then there’s climate change. I first learned about it in college, when it felt both terrifying and too vast to fully grasp. Now it is here. The L.A. fires made that reality feel immediate. It’s a horror unfolding in slow motion, and it makes me think of my nieces and nephews.
What did my Aunt Jean choose to do in 2026, when so much was unraveling in the United States and on the planet?
I want my niblings to be proud of me. I want to be proud of myself.
My Future Self
There’s more to consider, of course. What do I need now – and what will I need down the line? Some of my friends are retiring after long careers, and that reality has prompted its own reflection.
I’m paying closer attention to sustainability: where my energy goes, what kind of work feels most worthwhile now, and how to build greater long-term stability. I’ve been asking myself how to focus my efforts in a way that is both meaningful and financially sustainable.
What Comes Next
So, with a desire to contribute, a commitment to service, and a practical eye toward sustainability, I’m exploring what’s next professionally. Since 2000, my background has been in corporate training. I love helping people grow and creating safe places for learning. As I consider what comes next, I’m especially interested in work that is ethical, humane, growth-oriented, and grounded in real care for people.
A few weeks ago, I was a finalist for an instructor role at a nonprofit. Although they chose another candidate, the interview experience itself felt encouraging.
The treasure hunt continues as I look for my next professional home. Cuddle Sanctuary is evolving, not ending. I’m stepping away from the rhythm of monthly event production while remaining available for cuddle sessions, virtual resources, select mentorship, and aligned special collaborations.
A final business note: if you’re seeking group training as a cuddle therapist, you can receive 10% off tuition at Cuddlist with the coupon code CUDDLESANCTUARY. I’m now a proud affiliate, so if you enroll using the code, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.