Ria

About Ria

http://sipsandscars.com

Posts by Ria Roy:

April 14 2025

Confessions of a Serial Rewriter: My Editing Process Explained

Ria Ria's Strategies 0

How I rewrote my blog 17 times and still hit publish.

🪩 When writing stopped feeling like an escape and started feeling like pressure, I had to re-learn how to edit my work—without editing out my soul.

🧣 The Fire Exit

Writing has always been my escape route. My cozy little fire exit from the noise of the world. The blank page never judged, never interrupted. It was just me, my thoughts, and the sound of my fingers typing fast enough to outrun self-doubt.

Lately, I’ve scrapped more blog posts than I’ve published—not because they were bad, but because they didn’t sound like me anymore.

Somewhere along the way, that “escape from reality” hobby of mine turned into a source of pressure. And if you’re wondering how—or why—let me explain. If you’ve made it this far, thank you. If you didn’t, well… maybe I am doing something wrong. Because everywhere I looked, everyone seemed to be telling me the same thing:

I was blogging wrong.

💸 When Writing Becomes Pressure

If I wanted to be “successful,” I had to write about how and where to make money. If I wasn’t talking about monetizing my content in 2025,
I was wasting my time.

Suddenly, the blog I built as a space for happy little things felt like it needed to become an ATM.

🕳️ The Blog That Became a Burden

The pressure of writing for an audience I wasn’t even thinking of finally caught up with me.

Sips and Scars, my cozy little place on the internet, began to feel like a hole I was trapped in. Nobody wanted to read about my obsession with Dramione fanfics. Or my Sunday-night journal prompts.
Or my rambling but heartfelt thoughts on writing, healing, and trying again.

A place I once imagined as the kind of soft, quiet café you stumble into and never want to leave… invited nobody in.

People clicked away before they even made it through the homepage. I would lie in bed wondering why no one wanted to connect anymore.
Why didn’t people care? Was storytelling dead? Was vulnerability passé?

Maybe they were right.
Maybe blogs feel like touching grass only to me.

🐌 Avoidance, Self-Doubt, and the Silent Edits

So I did what any burnt-out blog girlie would do. I avoided my website like it was my biggest fear. I rewrote posts again and again, trying to find the perfect blend of real and relevant. I thought about taking SEO courses. I debated posting listicles.

I stared at the blinking cursor with all the enthusiasm of a soggy sandwich.

I didn’t want to cave in. I didn’t want to reduce something that once felt sacred into a monetization funnel.

Because to me, writing is a craft before it is a commodity.
It always has been.

And don’t get me wrong—I get it. The internet is a business. People have bills. We want to get paid. But I felt this quiet panic creeping in
every time I read another “How to monetize your blog” post.
As if all the joy I had in writing needed to be swapped for strategy, stats, and search engine sorcery.

Suddenly, the blog that used to feel like a warm hug started to feel like a pitch deck.

🔁 When the Brand is You

One night, I stared at the blinking cursor for two hours. Just vibes, self-loathing, and the occasional panic snack. and that’s when I realized: I was building a personal brand.

I know what you might be thinking— “This girl has definitely lost the plot.”

But hear me out. When that fear took over me, what I failed to understand was this:

Sips and Scars is literally me. It is my personality, my character, and me as a brand. It is a portfolio of me, myself, and I.

Instead of choosing between writing data or dreams, I realized:

I’m allowed to be both a writer and a strategist.

I don’t have to choose.

I can write stories that feel like warm socks on a rainy day
and stories that teach someone how to build their brand.
I can write about heartbreak and engagement rates.
I can rewrite for clarity without losing my voice.

📝 So, What’s My Editing Process Really Like?

1. Write badly on purpose. I don’t wait for perfection. I let the first draft be honest, messy, human.

2. Read it like I’m the reader. Would I feel something here? Would I want to stay?

3. Rewrite until it feels like me again. Not what the algorithm wants. Not what the rules say. Just what sounds true.

4. Then—yes—add strategy. Once the story is solid, I think about structure, headlines, keywords, or ways to share it on different platforms.

5. Final read-through: If I don’t smile, pause, or sigh at least once, it’s not done yet.

🧠 Why Editing Became Survival

Editing has become my way of survival in this chaotic blogging world. It’s the only tool I have to carve out a space for myself, to reclaim my voice, and to remind myself that I’m allowed to write what feels true. Through every edit, I’m slowly rediscovering why I started this journey in the first place: to be real, to connect, and to share stories that matter—no matter what the algorithms say.

📌 Let’s Talk

Have you ever felt like your creativity was getting swallowed by strategy?
Have you ever stopped writing something just because it didn’t feel “marketable”?

In case you’re feeling this too…Let’s talk.
Leave a comment, or DM me on Instagram— I’m always down for cozy creative chats 💌

Sip, read, repeat—delivered fresh every week 🍵

March 3 2025

The Astrology Brand That Thrives on Threads (Here’s Why)

Ria Ria's Strategies 0

Meet Moon & Mercury

Your personal cosmic informant. Your unfiltered, brutally honest, “I told you so” bestie in the stars. The one who calls you out, hypes you up, and reminds you that Mercury retrograde is not an excuse for texting your ex (but go off, I guess).

At Moon & Mercury, astrology isn’t just about the planets—it’s about the plot. The drama. The divine chaos. Every post is written like a message from the universe itself—sometimes comforting, sometimes spicy, always freakishly accurate.

And the best part? It all lives on Threads, where astrology hot takes and daily horoscopes thrive in their natural habitat. No fancy visuals, no endless editing—just words, vibes, and engagement. Here’s how I built a niche brand on Threads, one dramatic horoscope at a time.

**How Moon & Mercury Found Its Voice in the Astrology Space**

If you told me a year ago that I’d be writing dramatic daily horoscopes for fun—and exclusively on Threads—I would have laughed. And yet, here we are. Moon & Mercury exists, and it’s thriving. Not because I had some grand master plan but because I leaned into something I loved, gave it a personality, and made it work for Threads.

Why Threads? And Why It Works for Niche Brands

Threads is like Twitter’s cooler, more laid-back cousin. No pressure to create viral videos, no need for hyper-polished visuals—just words, vibes, and engagement. And for a text-heavy niche like astrology, it’s a goldmine.

People on Threads want personality. They want witty one-liners, spicy takes, and content that makes them stop scrolling. The challenge wasn’t what to post, but how to make it stand out in a sea of random thoughts and unhinged humor.

Finding the Niche Within the Niche

Astrology content is everywhere, but I didn’t want just another page posting “Your week will be full of surprises” predictions. Moon & Mercury had to feel like your brutally honest best friend who texts you at 2 AM with astrological tea.

So, I crafted a style that fit Threads perfectly:

Short, punchy, and dramatic – No fluff, just straight-up astrology takes that make people feel something.
Engaging and interactive – Asking questions, using polls, and making people want to reply.
Daily horoscopes that read like personal messages – Not generic forecasts, but posts that make you go, “Omg, why is this so accurate?”

Branding Through Tone and Consistency

The biggest lesson? A clear voice is everything. Since Threads moves fast, you need an instantly recognizable style. From day one, Moon & Mercury had a signature formula:

Conversational tone with attitude – Think best friend meets sassy oracle.
Zodiac emojis as character markers – Makes horoscopes more fun and easier to skim.
Drama, but make it insightful – Every post has to either call someone out (lovingly) or make them laugh.

Content That Clicks on Threads

Creating astrology content isn’t just about knowing the stars—it’s about knowing people. What makes someone pause mid-scroll? What makes them reply? That’s the real strategy.

Here’s what works:

Highly relatable, shareable posts – If people feel seen, they’ll comment, repost, and DM it to their besties.
Hook-first writing – The first line has to grab attention, or the post is dead on arrival.
Casual engagement tactics – “Tag your Gemini friend,” “Which sign is the most chaotic?”—low-effort responses mean high engagement.
Trendjacking + astrology – Merging cosmic drama with pop culture moments keeps things fresh and timely.

The Takeaway: Why Threads is Perfect for Niche Brands

Moon & Mercury works because it doesn’t just post astrology—it feels like astrology. It’s intuitive, a little chaotic, and eerily accurate. And Threads is the perfect home for that kind of content.

For anyone trying to build a niche brand on Threads, here’s the formula:

Find your niche inside the niche
Make your voice instantly recognizable
Write for engagement, not just visibility
Keep it consistent, casual, and interactive

And if you can do all that while making people laugh? Even better.

Your cosmic bestie is waiting. Don’t ghost the stars. 👀✨ Follow Moon & Mercury on Threads @moonndmercury before the next astrological crisis hits.

Written in the stars (and on Threads), Ria ✨

Sip, read, repeat—delivered fresh every week 🍵

February 22 2025

Drifting Through Pisces Season: A Love Letter to Dreamers

Ria The Cozy Corner Chronicles 0

There’s something about this time of year—the way the air feels softer, like it’s wrapped in an old love song, the kind that lingers in your chest long after the music stops. Maybe it’s the rain, or the way the sky fades into a watercolor blur at sunset. Or maybe, it’s just Pisces season doing what it does best: making us feel everything all at once.

If you’ve been catching yourself staring out the window a little too long, replaying old memories, or getting lost in daydreams of a life that exists only in the corners of your mind—congratulations. You’re right on schedule.

The Energy of Pisces Season

Pisces is the poet of the zodiac, the dreamer, the soft-hearted wanderer who sees the world through a hazy, sentimental lens. It’s the season of nostalgia, intuition, and letting emotions flow like the tide—gentle, relentless, impossible to ignore.

This time of year, you might feel more introspective, more drawn to quiet moments of reflection. Maybe you suddenly crave handwritten letters, moonlit walks, or music that makes you ache in the best way. Pisces energy whispers that it’s okay to feel deeply, to lean into the longing, to let yourself be soft in a world that always asks for sharp edges.

A Pisces-Approved Survival Kit

Since we’re already floating in the deep end, we might as well make it cozy. Here are a few ways to embrace the magic of this season:

🌙 Journal like a poet. Forget structured lists—let your thoughts spill onto the page in half-formed sentences and run-on emotions. Try prompts like “What is something I miss that no longer exists?” or “If my soul had a color, what would it be?”

💿 Make a ‘lost in a daydream’ playlist. The kind that makes you feel like the main character in an indie film. Think dreamy instrumentals, soft acoustic songs, maybe some hauntingly beautiful lyrics that hit too close to home.

🛁 Romanticize rest. Light a candle, run a bath, drink tea out of a cup with a tiny chip in it (because imperfections are poetic). Wrap yourself in the kind of warmth that feels like a long exhale.

📖 Get lost in a story. Whether it’s a book that breaks your heart in the best way or a comfort movie you’ve watched a hundred times, give yourself permission to escape for a little while.

Finding Solace in Stillness

Pisces season reminds us that not every moment has to be productive, not every feeling needs to be explained. Some things are meant to be felt, held for a little while, and then released like a breath you didn’t realize you were holding.

So if you’re feeling a little untethered, a little too soft for this sharp world—know that it’s okay. Let yourself drift. The world will still be here when you return.

Letting the tide take me where it wants. See you on the shore.

Sip, read, repeat—delivered fresh every week 🍵

February 19 2025

25 Writing Prompts for When Your Heart is Heavy and Your Hands Hesitate

Ria Marked and Memoired 0

Some things are too messy to say out loud. Some things you can only whisper to a blank page at 2 AM, hoping it listens better than the people who left. That’s where writing comes in—taking all that ache, all that confusion, and turning it into something real, something outside of you. If you don’t know where to start, here are 25 prompts to pry open the floodgates.

Write a letter to the person who hurt you the most. Say everything you never got to say. Do you send it or set it on fire?
What was the moment you realized a relationship—romantic, platonic, or familial—was over? Describe the exact second.
Rewrite a painful memory from your past, but this time, give yourself the ending you deserved.
Write about the song that reminds you of them. Where were you when you first heard it? Where were you when you stopped listening?
Describe a place you used to go with someone who’s no longer in your life. Is it still standing? Do you ever go back?
Write about the first time you learned love could be painful.
If your heartbreak was a color, what would it be? What about a scent? A texture?
Write about the version of yourself that stayed. What is she like? Is she happy?
Make a list of all the things you lost when they left. Now make a list of all the things you gained.
Write a letter to yourself from five years ago. What does she need to hear?
Describe the last time you felt truly at home. Was it a place, a person, a moment?
Write about an apology you never got but desperately needed.
If your healing journey was a road trip, what would the stops along the way be?
Write about the first time you felt beautiful after a heartbreak.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about love?
Write about a dream you had that you can’t seem to shake.
If you could talk to your past self right before she made a terrible mistake, what would you say? Would she listen?
Describe the feeling of missing someone who never really existed the way you thought they did.
Write about the things you still carry. Are they heavy? Are they worth it?
Write a conversation between your past self and your present self. Do they recognize each other?
What’s something you still don’t have closure on? What would closure even look like?
Describe the moment you knew you were going to be okay. If you haven’t had that moment yet, imagine it.
Write a eulogy for the version of you that loved them.
What does forgiveness mean to you? Does everyone deserve it?
Write a letter to your future self. Tell her what you hope she’s left behind and what you hope she’s found.

Writing isn’t just about telling a story—it’s about reclaiming it. It’s about looking your pain in the eye and saying, I own you, not the other way around. So go ahead, crack open your heart, and let the words spill out. You might surprise yourself.

May your words set you free.

Sip, read, repeat—delivered fresh every week 🍵

February 19 2025

The Art of Messy Journaling: Why Imperfection Tells the Best Stories

Ria The Cozy Corner Chronicles 0

Let’s be real. If my journal could talk, it would probably sigh dramatically and say, “Oh, you again?” Because every time I open it, I’m either pouring out an existential crisis, ranting about something that happened three years ago, or leaving behind an accidental coffee stain that could probably be analyzed like a Rorschach test.

And you know what? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Journaling isn’t about flawless pages, perfect penmanship, or color-coordinated spreads (unless that’s your thing, in which case, I deeply respect your discipline). It’s about you—the real, unfiltered, coffee-spilling, ink-smudging, emotionally complex you.

So if you’ve ever hesitated to start because you think your journal should look like an aesthetic Pinterest post, let’s rip that idea to shreds. Literally—grab a page, crumple it up, and throw it in the air like confetti. Because messy journaling? That’s where the magic happens.

Messy Journaling is the Best Kind of Journaling—Here’s Why

1. It Captures Life As It Is—Not As It “Should” Be

Life isn’t neat. It doesn’t come in a perfectly bound planner with pre-dotted pages and matching highlighters. It’s a beautiful mess of emotions, memories, and late-night thoughts scribbled in half-legible handwriting.

The smudged ink? That was the night you wrote through your tears. The crumpled page? The moment you almost gave up but didn’t. The random napkin taped into your journal? Proof that inspiration hits anywhere, even at a coffee shop when you forgot your notebook.

Messy journaling isn’t about chaos—it’s about truth.

2. Perfection is Overrated (and Honestly, Kind of Boring)

Let’s be honest: trying to make every page of your journal look “perfect” is exhausting. And sometimes, that need for perfection stops you from writing at all.

But when you stop caring about how it looks and focus on how it feels, everything changes. Suddenly, you’re not journaling for aesthetics—you’re journaling for you.

So go ahead, write in different colors. Scribble over old entries. Spill your tea (literally and metaphorically). Let your journal be an evolving masterpiece, not a pressure-filled project.

3. Your Journal is a Judgment-Free Zone (Unlike Your Overthinking Brain)

You ever write something down and then immediately judge yourself for it? Yeah, same. But here’s the thing—your journal is the one place where you can be unapologetically yourself.

There’s no audience. No like button. No need for your words to be profound or poetic. Just you, your thoughts, and a page that’s willing to hold them all without question.

How to Embrace the Chaos in Your Journal

🖋️ Write First, Edit Never – Your journal is not an essay. It doesn’t need a rough draft, final draft, or MLA citations. Just write. No second-guessing. No erasing.

☕ Let the Coffee Stains Stay – Or the tea stains. Or the ink smudges. These little marks tell stories of their own. (Like that time you knocked over your drink mid-existential crisis. Iconic.)

📖 Use Whatever’s Around You – A concert ticket, a torn magazine page, a quote scribbled on a sticky note—glue them in. Your journal should feel alive, not just written.

🔥 Rant, Ramble, Reflect – Some pages will be deep, some will be chaotic, and some will just be grocery lists written at 2 AM. That’s the beauty of it.

The Beauty of the Unfinished, the Imperfect, the Real

The best journals aren’t pristine—they’re lived in. They hold stories in ink smudges, emotions in messy handwriting, and memories in crumpled pages.

So if you’ve been waiting for the “perfect” time to start journaling, stop waiting. Just open the page and write. Let it be messy, let it be raw, let it be you.

And if you spill coffee on it? Even better.

Your Turn!

💬 Tell me—what’s the messiest yet most meaningful page in your journal? Let’s celebrate the beauty of imperfection in the comments!

📌 Save this post if you needed a reminder that your journal doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be yours.

From my scribbles to yours, Ria.

Sip, read, repeat—delivered fresh every week 🍵

February 18 2025

Healing Isn’t Linear: 5 Things I Wish I Knew Sooner

Ria Marked and Memoired 0

Let’s talk about healing. It’s one of those things we often think will be neat, tidy, and straightforward. You start, you heal, and then—bam! You’re healed. Right? Spoiler alert: It doesn’t work like that.

In fact, healing is one of the messiest, most unpredictable journeys you’ll ever embark on. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably been frustrated, disappointed, or even heartbroken by how slowly things seem to move. But let me let you in on a little secret: healing isn’t linear. It’s more like a zigzagging road trip with unexpected detours and scenic views along the way.

So, here are five things I really, truly wish I knew sooner. These are the lessons that would’ve made the whole process way less overwhelming—and hopefully, they’ll help you navigate your own healing journey with a bit more grace.

1. Setbacks Are Part of the Deal

When I first started trying to heal, I thought I’d reach a point where I’d just be better. No hiccups, no bumps. But I quickly learned that setbacks are part of the process. One minute you’re feeling good, the next, it feels like you’re stuck in the same place. That’s normal. In fact, it’s often a sign that you’re doing something right. Healing is messy, and progress isn’t always visible.

Tip: The next time you feel like you’re backtracking, give yourself permission to feel it. Setbacks don’t mean you’re failing—they mean you’re moving. Slowly, maybe, but you’re still moving.

2. You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out

Here’s the thing: I thought that healing meant I’d eventually have all the answers. I’d be enlightened. I’d be… perfect. (Insert laugh here.) Spoiler alert: Not a thing. Healing is messy, and it doesn’t follow any set path. You don’t need to have it all figured out. In fact, trying to have everything mapped out just adds more pressure to an already intense journey. You’re not supposed to have all the answers. You’re supposed to live the questions.

Tip: Take it day by day. Set small intentions, not giant goals. Today, try journaling your thoughts for 10 minutes. Tomorrow, maybe you just breathe deeply for a few minutes. It’s all progress.

3. Patience Is Your Best Friend (Even When You’re Sick of It)

You know what they don’t tell you about healing? It takes way longer than you want it to. Seriously. Whether you’re healing from heartbreak, trauma, or just life, you’re going to feel like you’re stuck in the waiting room forever. The truth? Healing takes time. It’s all about baby steps, little victories, and allowing things to unfold when they’re ready.

Tip: Instead of focusing on the end goal, celebrate the smallest wins. Maybe you cried it out but didn’t spiral. Maybe you were gentle with yourself instead of being harsh. Progress can be tiny, but it still counts.

4. You’re Allowed to Have Bad Days

Healing isn’t about feeling better all the time. In fact, some days you might feel worse—and that’s okay. It doesn’t mean you’re back to square one. Some days you’ll feel tired, irritable, or just plain overwhelmed. And that’s normal. You don’t have to be happy every single day to be healing. It’s okay to sit with discomfort and not try to fix it right away.

Tip: Allow yourself to feel the tough stuff. On days when everything feels heavy, give yourself permission to be a little sad, a little angry, or a little tired. Healing isn’t about being “better”—it’s about embracing the full range of your emotions.

5. Self-Care Isn’t Just Bubble Baths

I used to think self-care was all about face masks and indulgent baths. And hey, that’s part of it. But real self-care is so much deeper. It’s about setting boundaries, learning to say no, and prioritizing your mental and emotional health. It’s the quiet, everyday acts of kindness that you show yourself when things are tough. If there’s one thing I wish I knew earlier, it’s this: self-care isn’t a luxury. It’s essential.

Tip: Start making self-care a daily priority. It can be as simple as drinking enough water, getting some fresh air, or cutting out negative people. Small changes create big impact.

Healing Is About Progress, Not Perfection

So, here’s the real takeaway: healing is never going to be perfect. It’s going to have its ups and downs, twists and turns, and moments where you question if you’re making any progress at all. But I promise you, you are. Progress is stillprogress—even if it’s not visible right away. Healing is messy, but it’s also incredibly beautiful.

So take a deep breath, cut yourself some slack, and remember that healing is a journey—one you’re allowed to take at your own pace. You’ve got this. And most importantly? You’re not alone.

Healing with you, Ria.

What’s something you wish you knew about healing earlier? Drop a comment and let’s talk about it. Also, if this post spoke to you, make sure to subscribe to Sips and Scars for more heartfelt stories and healing insights.

Sip, read, repeat—delivered fresh every week 🍵

February 17 2025

The Uninvited Tattoo Artist Who Works for Free (And Still Somehow Overcharges)

Ria Marked and Memoired 0

Art is subjective, but an itchy red masterpiece on your skin? That’s objectively a mosquito’s finest work.

Ah, mosquitoes. The unsung geniuses of the art world. The Picassos of pain, the Da Vincis of disruption, the Van Goghs of—well, making sure you lose an ear to incessant buzzing. These tiny tormentors have been perfecting their craft for centuries, yet they receive nothing but slaps and curses in return. Tragic, really.

A Master of Performance Art

Mosquitoes are the original immersive artists. While other creatives stick to lifeless canvases, mosquitoes interact with their audience. They don’t just make their presence known—they demand a response. Their medium? The haunting hum in your ear at precisely 2:37 a.m., the rhythmic percussion of your own hand smacking your skin in futility, and the slow, dawning horror of an itch that will outlast your will to live.

They don’t just create art. They are the art.

Abstract Expressionism at Its Itchiest

A mosquito’s true masterpiece isn’t the bite—it’s the welt. Every red, inflamed bump is an organic brushstroke, a unique, fleeting composition on the canvas of your skin. You? You’re just the gallery. Each piece varies in size, texture, and intensity, a testament to their skill and dedication. Ever wake up looking like a modern art exhibit? Congratulations, you’ve been curated.

Jackson Pollock could never.

A Commitment to the Bit(e)

Lesser artists give up when faced with adversity, but mosquitoes? Mosquitoes persevere. Slap them mid-bite, and they’ll die for their art—literally. But their sacrifice isn’t in vain. Their work lives on, a posthumous masterpiece throbbing on your ankle. Some might call this dedication insufferable. Others might call it performance art in its rawest form.

Tomato, tomahto.

Global Impact – The Art That Unites Us

Some art is exclusive, meant for those who “understand” it. Mosquitoes? They make sure everyone participates. It doesn’t matter where you live or how much repellent you douse yourself in. These tiny artists transcend borders, social classes, and levels of personal hygiene. They’re equal opportunity menaces.

And really, isn’t that the dream? To create something that touches everyone? (Preferably not with disease, but hey, all great artists have their controversies.)

Final Thoughts: Give Credit Where It’s Due

Perhaps it’s time to rethink our stance on mosquitoes. Instead of resenting them, maybe we should acknowledge their artistry, their persistence, their sheer audacity. Maybe, just maybe, the real problem isn’t them—it’s us.

…Nah.

Where’s the mosquito bat?

Sip, read, repeat—delivered fresh every week 🍵

February 13 2025

When Love Is There but the Math Ain’t Mathing

Ria The Cozy Corner Chronicles 0

Alright, I’ve got my big sister glasses on—hope you’re taking notes

Love and compatibility — two words that seem to go hand in hand, like peanut butter and jelly, or, more accurately, like coffee and creamer. But what if love is more like a shot of espresso, bold and overpowering, while compatibility is oat milk—smooth, necessary, and the only thing keeping that espresso from punching you in the face at 8 a.m.?

I used to believe love was enough. That feeling—that heart-thumping, mind-spinning, butterflies-in-the-stomach chaos—was supposed to be the glue that held two people together. But then I learned that love, on its own, can be as flimsy as a dollar store phone charger. It burns bright, it sparks, it even charges your phone for a while—but it’s not built to last.

The Myth of Love as the End-All-Be-All

We grow up consuming love stories where two people defy all odds just to be together. Romeo and Juliet? Please. They weren’t even compatible long enough to figure out each other’s last names before things went south. Love, in those stories, is the main character, while compatibility is the boring sidekick no one pays attention to—until it’s too late.

The truth is, love without compatibility is like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without an instruction manual. It’s all passion and excitement at first, but eventually, you’re left with frustration, missing screws, and the sinking realization that you should have checked if you had the right tools before you started.

So, What Is Compatibility?

Compatibility isn’t just about liking the same TV shows or agreeing on whether pineapple belongs on pizza (it does, by the way). It’s about:

Emotional Compatibility – Do you communicate in the same language? Not just “I love you” and “Good morning,” but the hard stuff—how you argue, express hurt, and navigate silence.
Lifestyle Compatibility – Are your routines, ambitions, and life goals at least in the same timezone? Love can bridge gaps, but if one of you dreams of backpacking across the world while the other wants a white-picket-fence life, you’re going to hit turbulence.
Value Compatibility – This one’s big. Do you share core values about things like family, career, faith, or even how you define success and happiness? Love doesn’t erase fundamental differences—it just hides them for a while.

Love Versus Compatibility: Who Wins?

Let’s say you meet someone who makes your heart race. The chemistry is off the charts, you finish each other’s sentences, and your playlist is weirdly identical. But then reality kicks in: Your communication styles clash. You argue in ways that leave you drained rather than understood. One of you needs constant reassurance, while the other needs space.

What happens then?

Sometimes, love tricks us into thinking we can override incompatibility with sheer willpower. But love isn’t a magic wand that makes differences disappear. Over time, those differences start to feel heavier, like carrying a backpack that gets just a little bit heavier every day—until one day, you can’t carry it at all.

Can Love and Compatibility Coexist?

Absolutely. In fact, the best relationships have both. Love is the fire, but compatibility is the foundation. Without that foundation, the fire either burns out or burns the whole house down.

This doesn’t mean you need a checklist where your partner ticks every compatibility box. But it does mean you should pay attention to the things that make love work long-term. The little things. The daily things. The “who’s going to kill the spider in the bathroom?” things. Because love might make you swoon, but compatibility makes you stay.

So, is love compatible? Not always. But when it is? That’s the kind of love that doesn’t just survive—it thrives.

Alright, your turn—do you think love and compatibility go hand in hand, or is love just out here freeloading? Spill your thoughts in the comments.

Big Sister Wisdom, handle with care – Ria

Sip, read, repeat—delivered fresh every week 🍵

February 9 2025

Let’s Play: Unconventional Content Strategies That Actually Work

Ria Ria's Strategies 0

Because your content should feel like a high-score chase, not a 9-to-5 grind.

Alright, team – I’m about to drop some wisdom on you, and I promise this won’t be your average, snooze-worthy “how to grow your social media” post. I’m talking about embracing the power of playtime—and no, I’m not suggesting we all break out the board games during a Zoom meeting (though I do have a wicked Monopoly strategy if you’re up for it).

Play Like You’ve Got Nothing to Lose (Because You Don’t) 🎮

Here’s the thing: most of us take content creation way too seriously. But the best creators are the ones who experiment, try new things, and actually have fun with it. Are we trying to save the world with a single Instagram post? No. So, relax and add some personality. You don’t have to sound like an exhausted robot from 9 to 5. Bring the energy.

I’m not saying you should do a TikTok dance (unless that’s your thing, in which case, let’s collab). But I am saying – why not test something a little unexpected? A snarky meme, a behind-the-scenes blooper, a quirky poll about whether pineapple belongs on pizza (spoiler: it doesn’t). Whatever makes you feel like you’re not giving a TED Talk for the next 60 minutes.

The Game’s Not Over ‘Til You Say It Is 🎯

In every game, there’s a “game over” screen. But let me drop a reality bomb: content creation is never game over. If something flops, you’re not dead in the water. You’re just collecting data. (I know, I know, it’s so techy to call failure “data,” but hey, it sounds way better than “crushing disappointment.”)

Take it from me—I’ve posted things I thought were pure gold only to have them flop harder than my attempt at gluten-free pizza. But I’ve also had moments where I hit “publish,” checked back an hour later, and thought, “Wait, did I just go viral?” Spoiler alert: I did not. But I learned what my audience actually cared about, which is the real win here.

Talk to Your Audience Like They’re Your Best Friend 👯

You know how you text your bestie 37 memes in one sitting and talk about absolutely nothing for an hour? Why not treat your audience the same way? If your followers feel like they’re hanging out with a friend, you’re halfway to building a loyal community.

Start conversations. Ask questions that make people want to actually respond. (I mean, are we really all still pretending that “What’s your favorite color?” is going to spark a meaningful conversation?) Instead, ask something like, “Is pineapple on pizza a crime or a masterpiece?” That’ll get them talking. And when they’re talking, they’re engaging, and that’s when the magic happens.

Celebrate the Small Wins, Because They’re All You’ve Got 🏆

You hit a new follower milestone? Celebrate. A single comment made your day? Go ahead, celebrate that too. (Trust me, I’m the Queen of celebrating the little wins. Last week, I posted something and got one comment that said, “This is really good,” and I literally saved the screenshot as a souvenir.)

In the content creation game, if you wait for the big wins, you’ll be waiting forever. Acknowledging the little victories gives you momentum, and the more you celebrate, the more the algorithm—and your mindset—keeps growing.

Play the Long Game, Not the Quick Fix 🕹️

Look, if you’re looking for instant fame, you might as well go apply for a reality TV show. Content strategy is a marathon, not a sprint. The truth is, you’re probably not going to get 10k followers overnight (unless you’re an influencer and you’re reading this thinking, “Well, duh.” But hey, even influencers have to start somewhere, right?).

Take it from my journey: building a brand takes time, a lot of mistakes, and yes, even grinding it out through the really boring parts. But hey, if you keep playing and learning as you go, you’ll find your rhythm—and that’s when you win.

Game Over (But Not Really). So, here’s the deal: content strategy is a game, and you’re the one who gets to decide if you win or lose. The best part? You can always hit ‘continue’ and level up!”

So here’s the bottom line: Content strategy doesn’t have to be all stiff, professional jargon. Get playful with it, experiment, fail, learn, and celebrate. If you’re enjoying the process, your audience will feel that—and that is when you’ll really start making an impact.

Game on. 🎮🚀

Sip, read, repeat—delivered fresh every week 🍵

February 7 2025

In Through Curtained Windows And Open Balconies

Ria Marked and Memoired 0

Through every open curtain, a quiet reminder that we are never truly alone ✨

Ever since I can remember, I’ve had this little habit—whenever I’m walking past an apartment or house with its windows glowing at night, I look inside. Not in a creepy way, but in a curious way. If the door is left ajar for ventilation (AKA an open invitation for mosquitoes), or if a balcony is spilling warm light into the night, my eyes wander.

There had to be lights on. First, because this hobby, which started when I was a tiny kid, was strictly reserved for after-dinner walks with my family. And second, because my height was inconvenient—tall for a kindergartener, but still too short to see much in the dark. (Also, I was busy stuffing stones into my mouth and pockets, which… let’s not talk about.)

My mother would nudge me away, claiming I was staring rudely, while also prying open my mouth to confiscate my latest rock collection. Guess which habit stuck. If you said both, congratulations—you might have pica too. (Kidding. Kind of.) But mostly, it’s looking into homes that stayed with me.

There’s something strangely beautiful about these fleeting glimpses into people’s lives—their only unconscious invitation to the outside world. A swaying curtain. A netted window. Clothes drying on a balcony (yes, actual air-dried clothes—shockingly, dryers aren’t mandatory). A door cracked open just enough to keep an eye on the dog.

I know what you’re thinking. Your doors are locked. Your curtains are drawn. You’re suddenly questioning every window in your house. Relax. I swear I’m not a creep.

It’s just… comforting. For a few seconds, I get to step into another world—uninvited, yes, but harmlessly.

A bedroom light glowing at 5 AM—my mom’s theory? Someone’s studying, and I should have done that too. A front door left open just long enough to grab the rangoli box left outside after watering the yard. The chaotic sounds of a kitchen—mothers frantically searching for that one missing lid while also yelling at their kids to grab their school lunch. (The irony of multitasking is undefeated.) A grinder whirring, leaving me wondering what they’re cooking for lunch—only to realize I haven’t even had breakfast yet.

Freshly hung laundry in the late afternoons, making me wonder how many loads they still have left. A slow-moving curtain in a dim room confirms someone is deep in the best afternoon nap of their life.

But my favorite windows? The ones at night. When everyone is home.
When the day has settled.

Families at dinner tables, catching up on their day. Kids finishing up homework. Moms cleaning the kitchen after their own 9-to-5 grind. (Honestly, a full-time job that deserves actual pay and benefits.)
One by one, the lights go out—some early, some late—as cozy people tuck themselves into bed… while I wander around my apartment complex, collecting these quiet, unspoken stories.

And sometimes, I wonder—does anyone ever look into my home? I hope they do. I hope, even for a second, it gives them the same quiet comfort it gives me.

Maybe they wonder why the bedroom light is on at 2 AM. Or why the kitchen drawers slam at 3 AM (I promise I try to close them softly; my family has given up). Or why the living room light flickers on at 5 AM—just before I step out, ready to get lost in the glow of other people’s windows again.

Maybe it’s curiosity. (I am a Scorpio, after all.) Or, in this vast and endless world, it just makes me feel less alone.

Maybe, just maybe, we’re all looking for the same thing—proof that life is still happening, one glowing window at a time.

Under the same moon, Ria.

Ever found comfort in a stranger’s window glow? (Or at least confirm I’m not the only one doing this.) Drop your stories below—I promise no one will judge. 💛

Sip, read, repeat—delivered fresh every week 🍵