it started as a silly idea and it grew into something bigger
celebrating 50K with stories I've never shared before - from life abroad, my twenties, and the messy joy of sharing online
Opening Note
Somehow, in between film stills, tea moments, book recommendations, and those quiet life musings I never thought anyone would relate to—this little corner of the internet grew. From a few followers that started with my close friends and family to today, my little corner of the internet has reached 50,000 of you. That number is surreal. Not because it’s big (though it is), but because it represents real people who, in some way, have felt seen in something I’ve shared.
To celebrate, I thought it was only right to turn the camera around and answer some of your questions. Whether you sent them through Instagram or Substack, thank you for your curiosity, kindness, and thoughtfulness. Many of you asked about things I’ve never shared before—navigating your twenties, living abroad, finding your voice online, or simply what I’ve been reading when life feels like a spiral (relatable, right?).
This isn't just a Q&A. It's a chance to get to know the girl behind the screen—flawed, curious, often overthinking, always learning.
Whether you’ve been here since 3K or found me last week, thank you for being part of this strange and beautiful digital diary. Let’s keep growing together, slowly and meaningfully.
Thank you again for following along on my journey. Whether it’s on my newsletter or my Instagram, I hope my content continues to help or inspire you in any way.
Read on for stories I’ve never told before—and maybe a few unexpected answers too.
Personal
What’s the hardest part of your twenties that no one prepared you for?
Realising that it’s okay to not have it all figured out — and that most people don’t.
No one tells you how normal it is to change your mind, to make mistakes, or to feel lost when it comes to your career or life direction. You’re allowed to take your time, to explore different paths, and to start over — again and again. It doesn’t mean you’re behind. Even when it feels like everyone else has it together, I promise you, you're not falling behind.
If you’re curious, here’s a rough timeline of my early twenties to mid-twenties. Hopefully, it brings you a bit of comfort and maybe inspiration on where you want to plan your life. I’ve gone from dropping out of university, being unemployed, to moving abroad for a job and travelling in between.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to stop comparing myself to others, especially online. Most of what we see is a highlight reel — a polished sliver of someone’s life, not the full picture.
It’s taken me a while to understand that a lot of people are simply good at looking like they know what they’re doing. But underneath it all, we’re all figuring it out as we go. And that’s more than okay.
Do you have any regrets in life?
If I had to name one, it would be not putting myself out there more during my university years. As someone who’s naturally introverted, it takes a lot of energy and courage for me to step outside my comfort zone. Looking back, I wish I’d made more of an effort to get involved — whether that was joining social clubs, playing in social sports, or simply connecting more with peers.
At the time, I’d usually just head to campus for my lectures and leave straight after. I didn’t realise how valuable those moments outside the classroom could be — not just for building friendships, but also for creating a sense of community and even opening up future career opportunities. As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to appreciate just how hard it can be to meet new people and build connections once you’ve left that structured environment.
Is there anything you’re afraid you won’t accomplish?
I've always dreamed of living abroad in Europe. Growing up in Australia, I romanticised the idea of experiencing life in a completely different part of the world — not just as a tourist, but really living and working there.
While I’ve had the chance to live in Korea since 2022, that desire to experience Europe has never quite gone away. It’s something I still hope to do at least once in my life. Ideally, I’d love to work in marketing or social media, but with how tough the job market is right now — paired with the logistics of moving — it can feel a little overwhelming. I’m also in my mid-twenties, and I’m at a life stage where I’m kinda craving more stability financially and personally. I’m in the midst of progressing my career and also have concerns regarding supporting my family back home in Australia.
Some friends of mine have made it work by going over as au pairs or teaching English, so if I get curious (or desperate), maybe I’ll give that a shot too. After all, I took a leap teaching English in Korea — and that turned out better than I expected.
What’s something you wish people knew about you?
Just because I’m quiet or introverted doesn’t mean I’m not engaged or thoughtful. I tend to observe more than I speak, and I process things internally before sharing. I might not always be the loudest voice in the room, but I care deeply, and there’s usually a lot going on beneath the surface. I’m also quite extroverted with friends that I trust and am comfortable around. My closest friends have often joked that I “adopted” them into my friend circle, which I found funny.
Careers & Content Creation
How did you start content creation?
I started content creation in 2022, around the same time I moved to South Korea for work. Leaving behind my life in Australia, I began documenting my journey—travel moments, daily life abroad, and everything in between—on Instagram. At first, it was just occasional posts: a mix of photos and videos about the places I explored, my experiences teaching English, and the honest realities of living as a foreigner in Korea.
I didn’t have any formal training—I taught myself everything from photography to copywriting to video editing. Back then, I had no idea content could be monetised or that creators could earn through sponsorships or collaborations. I was simply sharing my life because I genuinely loved it. That’s still the core of what I do today, though I’ve learned so much since then.
After about six months, my Instagram started to grow, eventually reaching 10K, and I began posting more consistently. A year or two in, I branched out to other platforms and started focusing on long-form content. That’s also when I began receiving paid collaborations and event invites.
If there’s one thing I hope people take away, it’s that this wasn’t an overnight success. It took years of showing up, learning, and staying consistent. Content creation has been, and still is, a second job—but it’s one I care deeply about.
What made you choose your username?
I love this question—it actually took me a long time to decide on the right name because I knew how much weight a username could carry, especially when building a personal brand. I didn’t want something that would box me into a single chapter of my life, like “the girl who lived in Korea.” I wanted a name that reflected a fuller picture—someone simply navigating life, sharing the messy and beautiful in-between, from travel and photography to books and quiet reflections.
I’ve touched on this in past newsletters, but the time leading up to my move to Korea was deeply transformative. I had just lost a close family member—my grandmother—to COVID, which impacted me profoundly. At the time, I was in grad school working toward my master’s, yet I found myself longing for the gap year I never gave myself. Her passing reminded me just how fleeting life is, and it gave me the push I needed to take a leap, leaving university and moving abroad.
That’s how Kelly Today came to be. It’s a reminder to live in the moment, to embrace where you are now, and to pursue the things your heart quietly nudges you toward. I’ve always believed in living a life you won’t regret—and this username is my personal reminder to do that and maybe inspire others.
Any advice or tips for aspiring creators?
I could probably write an entire guidebook on this, but here are a few things I wish someone had told me when I was starting out:
1. Stop overthinking and just begin.
One of the biggest hurdles is waiting to feel "ready." But the truth is, you learn by doing, not by waiting for the perfect idea, the perfect lighting, or the perfect setup. In this space, consistency and authenticity matter far more than having everything figured out from day one.
2. Be patient with the process.
Finding your voice, your rhythm, and your community takes time. What most people don’t see are the quiet seasons - months (or even years) of experimenting, learning, and posting when it felt like no one was paying attention. For perspective, it took me over three years to reach 50,000 followers. Slow growth is still growth.
3. Be curious. Teach yourself everything you can.
There are so many free tools and tutorials out there to help you improve, from editing and photography to storytelling and understanding algorithms. Observe what you admire in others, then make it your own. And while trends can be fun, building a community rooted in your unique voice will always go further.
4. Lead with genuine passion.
Create because you love it. Whether five people see your work or fifty thousand, what truly matters is sharing something that feels meaningful to you. That sincerity comes through—and it’s what people connect with most.
5. Let yourself evolve.
Your content can grow with you. I started by sharing travel and life abroad in Korea, but over time, I’ve shifted toward more lifestyle and reflective content. I realised it wasn’t sustainable for me to only post about travel, because I don’t travel full-time, and it started to feel creatively exhausting. Instead, I focused on what still inspired me and felt aligned.
At the end of the day, your platform is yours. Build something that reflects you—your growth, your passions, your voice. And most importantly, enjoy the journey as it unfolds.
In case you missed out, here are my favourite resources that I cannot live without:
The shopping wishlist tracker that’s saving me money and time
My go-to Fujifilm photo preset for all my photos
My ultimate media tracker template for films and TV shows
Personal Growth & Wellbeing
How do you deal with comparison online?
It’s definitely something I still navigate, but I’ve gotten better at recognising when I’m falling into that spiral. Whenever I catch myself comparing my life to someone else’s highlight reel, I remind myself that what we see online is rarely the full picture - it’s curated, filtered, and often designed to be aspirational.
I also try to curate my own feed with intention. I follow people who inspire me without making me feel “less than,” and I mute or unfollow accounts that trigger unhealthy self-talk. Taking breaks from social media also helps. Just stepping away and reconnecting with life and real people reminds me of what truly matters.
Most importantly, I try to ground myself in what’s true for me - my pace, my path, my values — even if it doesn’t look like everyone else’s.
What’s a personal motto or life motto that you live by?
“Start before you’re ready.”
It’s a reminder I come back to often — that waiting until everything feels perfect usually means you’ll never begin. As someone who struggles with perfectionism, I’ve learned that clarity comes through action, not just overthinking. You don’t need to have it all figured out to take the first step. Whether it’s a creative project, a career change, or a big life move, starting messy is still starting — and that’s what matters most.
Travel & Experiences
What country changed you the most and why?
Is it cliché to say Switzerland? It’s one of those dream destinations I’ve had on my bucket list since I was a kid — a place I never quite thought I’d actually get to visit, but in 2024, I made it happen. It’s hard to put into words what it feels like to be there, beyond the stunning photos you see online. I only spent about a week there offline from social media, and it was one of the most surreal experiences.
There’s something about the pace of life in Switzerland — the calmness, the deep connection to nature, and the simple, thoughtful way of living — that truly changed me. I was amazed by how much the culture values balance: between work and rest, modern and traditional, community and solitude.
Being there helped me appreciate the beauty of slowing down and fully being present. I found joy in quiet moments — morning walks by the lake, grocery trips that felt like small rituals, weekends in the mountains without any hurry.
Switzerland taught me that success doesn’t always mean noise or speed. Sometimes, success is just peace — and that’s more than enough.
What’s the best surprise you’ve ever received?
I’m someone who really values thoughtful, personal gestures - especially the small, meaningful ones that show someone’s been paying attention. It’s hard to pinpoint just one surprise because, for me, it’s been a collection of little moments from a close friend that felt incredibly special. The best way I can describe it is the feeling of having a platonic soulmate.
Like the time he remembered my favourite drink without me ever having to mention it twice. Or when he’d send me something randomly, saying, “This reminded me of you.”
One moment that stands out was when he was travelling in Japan. While shopping, he messaged me straight away asking if I wanted a deck of Studio Ghibli cards — simply because he knew how much I loved them.
And months earlier, we’d had a conversation about how much I adored handwritten letters and how rare they’ve become. When he moved back to America, he surprised me with a handwritten note to read after we said goodbye.
Those quiet, intentional acts — that kind of thoughtfulness — have meant more to me than any big gesture ever could.
Media & Recommendations
What’s a film that always brings you back to yourself?
Studio Ghibli films have always held a special kind of magic for me. I grew up watching them as a child, and to this day, I find myself returning to them again and again. There’s something so gentle, grounding, and quietly powerful about their stories. They remind me to slow down, to feel deeply, and to savour the simple joys in life. If I had to choose a favourite, it would be a close call between Howl’s Moving Castle and Spirited Away.
As for a non-animated film, The Sound of Music will always have a special place in my heart. It was a movie I watched every year with my grandma before she passed away. There’s a certain comfort in rewatching something that holds shared memories. In some small way, I get to experience those moments with her all over again. And beyond the nostalgia, it’s just a beautiful film with timeless music, heartfelt storytelling, and breathtaking cinematography.
I’ve written an entire list of movies every woman in her twenties should watch here.
I want to read more. Where should I start?
Honestly, one of my favourite questions, and you have come to the right person! I used to be an avid reader in high school, but like many people, that habit slipped away during university. It was only last year that I properly got back into reading and now it is something I do every single day.
I have actually written a full guide on reigniting your love for reading but here are a few quick tips to get you started:
Start with what genuinely excites you. Do not feel pressured to read what everyone else is reading. Think about the genres, tropes, or stories that naturally interest you. For me, fantasy novels were the perfect escape because I loved getting lost in other worlds. If you are unsure, reflect on a film or TV show you enjoyed and look up book recommendations in that vein.
Set a realistic and enjoyable goal. Reading does not need to be a huge time commitment to be meaningful. Try starting with 10 minutes a day or aim to read during a consistent window of time like on your commute or before bed. Personally, I read for about 20 minutes before sleeping and that small habit has helped me stay on track to read over 60 books this year.
Create a cozy, dedicated reading spot. Whether it is a quiet nook in your home, a corner of your favourite café, or just your bed with soft lighting, setting the scene can make reading feel like a comforting ritual rather than a chore.
Try different formats. If physical books feel overwhelming, try eBooks or audiobooks. Audiobooks are especially great for multitasking. You can listen while walking, cooking, or commuting. Sometimes the format shift alone can make a big difference.
Track your progress if it helps motivate you. Whether it is using Goodreads, a reading journal, or even just a checklist in your Notes app, seeing your progress can be satisfying and motivating.
Do not be afraid to DNF (Did Not Finish). Life is too short for books you are not enjoying. If something is not holding your interest, it is okay to put it down and try something else. Reading should feel joyful and not like homework.
Most importantly, take the pressure off. Reading is personal and there is no one right way to do it. Start small, follow your curiosity, and let the rest unfold naturally.
Books that got you into reading?
Fantasy novels were definitely my gateway into the world of reading. There’s something about richly imagined worlds, magical elements, and unforgettable characters that instantly captured my imagination and made me want to keep turning pages. These stories offered an escape and a sense of wonder that felt truly special.
Lately, I’ve been really drawn to titles like Throne of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalco, which blends dark fantasy with intricate storytelling, and A Fate Inked in Blood, a gripping tale full of mystery and magic that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Both have become some of my favourite reads and perfectly showcase why I love the fantasy genre so much.
If you’re new to reading or looking for recommendations, I’d definitely suggest starting with fantasy books that speak to your interests—whether that’s epic adventures, magical mysteries, or character-driven stories. They have a way of pulling you in and making you fall in love with reading all over again.
If you’re looking for book recommendations, you can find various book lists on my Fable account. They’re organised by different genres and book tropes!
What is one app or resource you wish you had known about earlier?
If I had to choose just one resource I wish I’d discovered earlier, it would hands down be Notion. I genuinely don’t know how I managed without it before—it’s completely changed the way I organise my life. I use it for everything: managing my daily tasks, tracking books I’ve read and want to read, planning trips down to the hour, budgeting and keeping tabs on my expenses, and even mapping out long-term goals or creative ideas.
It’s such a flexible and powerful tool, whether you're a student, content creator, or just someone who likes keeping things in order. I’ve even put together a few templates that I personally use, and you can download them if you’re curious or want a head start!
This Notion template has helped me cut back on spending and curb impulse buys — it's a wishlist and shopping tracker I swear by.
The ultimate Notion template for tracking your reading progress, book ratings, and TBR list all in one place.
My go-to Notion template for planning every detail of a trip — from itineraries to packing lists — all in one streamlined dashboard.
The Little Things
What’s one of the best purchases you’ve made in your twenties?
If I could only pick one, it would have to be my Kobo Clara e-reader. It’s lightweight, easy on the eyes, and has completely changed the way I read, especially when I’m travelling or trying to wind down before bed. I honestly can’t imagine going back to carrying around multiple books at once.
I’ve written an entire post about things I don’t regret buying in my twenties here.
What’s your favourite perfume scent?
When it comes to perfume, I tend to switch things up depending on the season. Right now, I’ve been loving Yves Saint Laurent Libre—it’s elegant, slightly bold, and strikes the perfect balance between fresh and warm. It opens with notes of lavender and orange blossom, giving it a crisp, almost airy feel, but settles into deeper tones of vanilla and amber that feel comforting and sophisticated.
It’s definitely one of the most complimented scents I’ve worn—people often tell me it smells very warm and feminine. It’s the kind of fragrance that lingers just enough without being overpowering, and it always makes me feel put together, even on my most chaotic days.
What’s your MBTI?
As for my MBTI, I’m an INFJ, which honestly makes a lot of sense. I’m someone who feels things deeply and intuitively, often picking up on emotions or dynamics that aren’t being said out loud. I thrive on meaningful conversations, whether it’s discussing life goals, personal growth, or the tiny moments that shape us.
I also need plenty of alone time to recharge—not because I don’t enjoy being around people, but because solitude helps me process the world and reconnect with myself. I tend to lead with empathy, but I’m also quietly driven and always thinking a few steps ahead. It’s a personality type that can feel like a contradiction at times—soft but strong, introspective but idealistic—and I think that’s what makes it so interesting to live with.
How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
If I had to describe myself in three words? I’d say witty, observant, and intuitive.
Concluding note
Answering these questions felt like writing letters to my past self—and to every one of you who’s ever felt behind, uncertain, or quietly hopeful about what’s next. There’s something comforting about knowing we’re all figuring it out in our own ways, just at slightly different paces.
I’ve grown a lot through this platform, but more than anything, I’ve softened. I’ve learned that it’s okay to be slow, to change your mind, to chase what lights you up even when no one understands it yet. If anything I’ve shared has ever made you feel a little more seen, less alone, or gently inspired, that’s everything to me.
Here’s to the next chapter, to asking more questions, and to showing up—imperfectly, honestly, and with heart.
Until next time,
Before you go: You can find me on Instagram, Fable, and TikTok to keep up with my updates, oversharing and recommendations in real-time.
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resources I can’t live without