Feelings Not Aside

This is a soft and sensitive space. You and all of your feelings are welcome here.

What Is Feelings Not Aside?

I created this substack in 2021 to explore my own feelings and emotions. I’ve always been a more sensitive person, as well as an artist and writer. But I never really knew what that meant in terms of expressing myself. The more I’ve done the work to write about my feelings and express them freely, the more I’ve discovered the many emotions that like to make their home in my mind and body (usually all at once!). As this newsletter has grown into a community of 4,000+ subscribers and sensitive friends, I’ve discovered I’m far from alone in this experience.

What can I expect if I subscribe?

All subscribers can expect weekly micro-essays about creativity, relationships, grief, quiet joys, and big life questions. This is a place for community and acceptance in a world that doesn’t always understand nuanced or complicated feelings. While the writing is the framework of this substack, the comments section is the beating heart, and it’s where other sensitive writers, artists, and readers from all over the world chime in and share their resonance and stories. It’s the very best aspect of this entire project. And it’s why I keep writing.

Paid subscribers also receive Five Feelings, a visual roundup of feelings experienced throughout the week, captured in images and sent on Sundays. This summer, I’ll be launching additional paid content in the form of mood boards, voice notes, and more.

Tears (obviously) and sad song/movie recommendations are free and always shared and encouraged.

What about the name?

The name of this newsletter is a play on the phrase I loathe most in conflict conversations: “Feelings aside…” It squashes and diminishes the other person's feelings, even if they don’t reflect the whole truth. Their feelings are still valid, and they still matter. That’s it. It’s fairly simple. Feelings aside, except not.

Who is behind Feelings Not Aside?

I’m Kayti, a mostly nonfiction writer dabbling in fiction and residing in Pasadena, CA. I have an MA in Nonfiction Writing and I have a terrible habit of buying more books than I can ever read. I’m so glad you’re here! xx