top of page

Branching Out and Being Brave - I started a YouTube Channel about Mental Health

  • Shannan Marano
  • 12 minutes ago
  • 4 min read

Starting something new can feel scary. I know this feeling very well because I recently launched my own YouTube channel focused on mental health and journaling. To me, this step is more than just creating content; it’s a personal journey of bravery and growth. I want to share why I took this leap and how it connects to my work with clients at Lavender Sky Counselling. My hope is to inspire you to be brave, try new things, and follow your dreams, even when they seem out of reach or maybe even a little bit silly.


Eye-level view of a cozy workspace with a bullet journal and laptop open to a YouTube channel page
My workspace where I create mental health and bullet journal videos

Why I Decided to Start a YouTube Channel


For years, I have worked closely with clients on overcoming fear, building courage, and finding their passions. Many of these conversations revolve around mental wellbeing and how small, creative habits can support it. Bullet journaling is one of those habits that I started a little over a year ago. It helps organize my thoughts, track moods, and set goals in a way that feels personal and manageable.


I realized that by sharing my own experiences with mental health and journaling on YouTube, I could reach more people beyond my counselling sessions. This channel is an example of me practicing what I preach: being brave and stepping into something new. If you had asked me even just a year ago if I would ever put myself or my work on the internet like this, I would have laughed! But, as I grow, I learn that this is a way to show that even if you feel uncertain or nervous, you can still take action toward your dreams.


What You Can Expect from the Channel


My channel focuses on practical tools and honest conversations about mental wellbeing. Here’s what I share:


  • Bullet journal setups that help track moods, anxiety levels, and self-care habits.

  • Tips for managing fear and building confidence through small daily actions.

  • Stories from my own journey and lessons learned from working with clients.

  • Encouragement to try new things and embrace creativity as a path to healing.


I want the channel to feel like a supportive space where people can learn and grow at their own pace. Mental wellbeing is not about perfection but progress, and bullet journaling is a flexible tool that adapts to your needs.


How Being Brave Changed My Perspective


Launching this YouTube channel pushed me out of my comfort zone. I had to face fears about being judged or not being “good enough” at video creation. But each video I make helps me build confidence and reminded me why I started this journey, whilst letting go of perfection.


This experience also deepened my understanding of what I encourage clients to do: take small steps toward bravery. Whether it’s speaking up in a meeting, trying a new hobby, or sharing your story, bravery looks different for everyone. It’s about moving forward despite fear.


Close-up view of a bullet journal page with colorful mental wellbeing trackers and motivational quotes
This year I created a Bingo Card for all the small goals I want to work towards this year

How You Can Use Bullet Journaling for Mental Wellbeing


Bullet journaling is more than just pretty pages. It’s a tool that can support your mental wellbeing in practical ways:


  • Mood tracking: Notice patterns and triggers by recording your feelings daily.

  • Goal setting: Break down big dreams into manageable steps.

  • Self-care reminders: Schedule activities that recharge you.

  • Reflection: Use journaling prompts to explore your thoughts and emotions.


If you’re new to journaling, start simple. Use a few pages to track what matters most to you. Over time, you’ll find what works and can adjust your system. The key is consistency, not perfection.


Encouragement to Take Your Own Brave Step


If you’ve ever thought about trying something new but held back because of fear or doubt, I want you to know you’re not alone. Starting this YouTube channel was my way of showing that bravery is a practice. It’s okay to feel unsure. What matters is that you try.


Maybe your brave step looks like:


  • Starting a journal to support your mental wellbeing.

  • Sharing your story with a trusted friend or person in your community.

  • Trying a new creative outlet like painting, writing, or video making.

  • Seeking support from a counsellor or mental health professional.


Whatever it is, remember that every small step counts. You don’t have to do it perfectly or all at once. Bravery grows with each action you take.


High angle view of a person’s desk with a bullet journal, a cup of tea, and a camera set up for recording a YouTube video
My "word of the year" for 2026 is "BRAVE" to remind me to be brave in all things I do.

Join Me on This Journey


I invite you to visit my YouTube channel and see how I combine mental health support with bullet journaling. Whether you’re looking for ideas to improve your mental wellbeing or just want to see someone taking a brave step, I hope you find something helpful.


Your support means a lot. Subscribing and engaging with the channel helps me keep creating content that can inspire others. More importantly, I hope it encourages you to take your own brave step toward a healthier, more creative life.



Remember, bravery is not about being fearless. It’s about moving forward even when fear is there. Let’s be brave together.


If you'd like to work with me on overcoming your fears or facing challenges, you can always boo ka one-on-one session with me at my counselling practice, Lavender Sky, OR book a free consult to see how we can work together to achieve your dreams.


Individual Session
Plan only
50min
Book Now

Free Consult
20min
Book Now

Comments

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.
No ratings yet

Add a rating

Registered with Australian Counselling Association (ACA)

LSC acknowledges the Whadjuk & Noongar nations whose land we we live on, and pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging. Always Was, Always Will Be. 
© 2023 by LSC. Powered and secured by Wix

Australian counsellors Association
bottom of page