The simple shift that changed everything for me


41st letter from Mihai

Thu 21 Aug, 2025

Colmar, France

Hey Reader,

In the letter I sent two days ago, I shared the story of Aurélie and I going canyoning in the Vosges Mountains.

What I didn’t say is that it was a fairly long drive. Overall, I drove about four hours that day. And even though that may not seem like much for many, for me it’s a good distance. Driving has changed for me.

When Aurélie and I first started dating, a little more than three years ago, we split most things equally. That included driving. Sometimes I drove, sometimes she did. And often we ended up debating who should take the wheel. If I drove both ways, I’d feel it wasn’t fair. If I was tired, I’d feel resentful. It added a layer of tension that drained energy.

In the past year we redefined our roles in a way that feels right for us. One of the things I’ve taken on fully is being the driver. The designated driver, always.

And that shift changed something for me.

Now we don’t have those conversations anymore about who drives. No second-guessing either. I know it’s my responsibility and I can plan my energy for it. Even if I’m tired, I find myself reaching deeper and finding what’s needed. It is mine to do.

Yesterday I noticed it clearly. Taking this role actually gives me energy. I feel good knowing Aurélie and Cléo can relax, and I can focus fully on the road, the conversation, the scenery. I don’t feel that frustration or resentment anymore.


That is also how I see the Rooted 21 Challenge.

When you take responsibility for driving your relationship, without waiting for your partner to step in and without debating whose turn it is, you tap into new energy and resources.

That is what the Challenge is about. 21 days, 21 actions to bring you closer to your partner. Simple, clear, yours to take on. All delivered through email, so you don't have to sign up for another platform.

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The Rooted 21 Challenge starts today. Registration is only available for one week, until August 28.

Since you are part of my email list, you also have a 10 percent discount.

If you have any questions, just reply to this email.

I’d love to have you in the group.

P.S. If you know another dad who is feeling distant or struggling at home and might benefit from Rooted 21, I’d be grateful if you forwarded this email to him.


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