How many cups of coffee do you drink in a day? I am addicted to caffeine, as one of the side-effects of hypothyroidism is tiredness. To combat sluggishness and fatigue, I drink three cups of coffee a day. I have my first cuppa in the morning, with my brekkie and vitamins. My next one is after lunch, while my third and final cup is during my afternoon snack. The gaps between my coffees ensure that I have the right amounts of caffeine to last me through the day.
I can appreciate a broad spectrum of coffee. I can go as basic as cheap 3-in-1 coffee mixes, to Mcdo premium roast, to third wave, single origin brews. I will accept a hot cuppa as long as it does the job of waking me up and sustaining my stories. I enjoy curling up with a book while sipping my coffee, or if I am in a rush, I usually drink it while listening to an upbeat pop song. When I am in a cafe, I like taking my time. I usually write my blog drafts while I’m at it, as I savour the coffee that goes through my system. If I am with someone, I take it slow, as I enjoy listening to stories with my cuppa. The settings may vary, but what I value the most with each cup of coffee is the connection I make, either with myself (through reading, listening to music, or writing) or with my companion. And since coffee energizes me, I am inspired to share my work, one cup at a time.
Just like my passion for handmade items (like my BagsByRubbertree handbag in the photo), I have developed an appreciation for living meaningfully. I appreciate the boost I get from coffee, and no, I don’t think it is right to generalize coffeehouse culture as a millennial indulgence. For me, it is a means to a better life in general. After all, I cannot function if I am tired and exhausted. What makes this lifestyle practical though is the fact that I am not picky with the coffee I drink. If I have time to spare, then I will read and order a Gibraltar (also pictured) at one of my usual cafes. If I am in a hurry, Mcdo or even instant coffee does the trick. But of course, a handcrafted cup of coffee will always be my favourite.
I also think that coffee is more than a drink for me. It is a catalyst for opportunities as it gives me life. I started most of my projects with coffee, and I have conversed with people I value over a cuppa (or two). And if hypothyroidism makes me tired, then coffee allows me to keep going without worrying about the slowdown or the sluggishness. Those are factors I can control, just like the choices I make with a cup in hand.