The Things That Matter Most To Me

I believe the most important parts of a person are often the quiet ones. For me, three values guide how I try to live: honesty, empathy, and kindness.

Honesty matters because it creates stability. In a world where opinions form quickly and conversations can become heated, being truthful — even when it’s uncomfortable — builds trust over time. I try to live openly and consistently. Accountability and clarity bring peace of mind.

Empathy is just as important. We all carry experiences that aren’t visible from the outside. Taking the time to understand someone else’s perspective — or at least trying to — makes conversations healthier and communities stronger. I’ve learned that listening often matters more than speaking. Whether in person or online, empathy creates room for growth rather than conflict.

Kindness ties everything together. It doesn’t have to be dramatic or performative. Often it’s small: offering support, giving someone the benefit of the doubt, or simply choosing not to escalate negativity. Kindness is a quiet strength.

Outside of those values, my interests are fairly simple.

I spend a lot of time outdoors. Living in Hull means there are opportunities to step away from screens and noise and just be present. Walking, fresh air, and time in open spaces help clear my mind. Nature has a way of resetting perspective.

Reading is another constant in my life. Books offer a way to explore ideas, understand different lives, and challenge your own assumptions. I’m drawn to both fiction and non-fiction — stories that allow you to step into someone else’s world and writing that encourages reflection.

Video games are something I’ve enjoyed for years. For me, they’re not just entertainment — they’re interactive storytelling. They can be creative, strategic, and sometimes even meditative. Games, like books, create shared experiences and communities.

Perhaps most important to me is supporting mental health. I care deeply about the well being of others. Conversations about mental health shouldn’t be taboo or hidden away. Encouraging openness, reducing stigma, and offering support where possible are things I value. Even small gestures — checking in with someone, offering reassurance, or simply listening — can make a difference.

This blog is simply a space to share a little more about who I am and what matters to me. Belle Carroll is based in Hull, and this is one small corner of the internet where I can write about the things that shape my perspective and daily life.

Life is ongoing. Growth is ongoing. And the things that matter most — honesty, empathy, and kindness — don’t change with circumstances. They’re daily practices.

You might also enjoy reading about a childhood memory connected to The Magic Faraway Tree.

Thank you for reading.