Writing Pillars

Hi, I’m Alicia — but friends call me Leesh.

I’m 24, based in Santa Monica, and on a mission to make sure my 9–5 isn’t the most interesting thing about me.

Off Leeshed started as a mindset before it was a blog — a decision to stop waiting for “more time” and to build a life that feels full now. That usually means saying yes to the outdoors (skiing, hiking, camping), signing up for things that slightly scare me (like training for a marathon), and booking trips that make the weekdays worth it.

I’m happiest outside, moving my body, chasing views, or trying something new for the first time. When I’m not on a trail or logging long miles, I’m dabbling in art, diving into new music, and constantly picking up hobbies just to see what sticks.

This space is for anyone who works hard, loves adventure, and refuses to let routine define them.

Life’s better a little off-leesh.

Off the clock, on the map.

Whether it’s a ski trip in the mountains, a weekend camping under the stars, or wandering through a new city somewhere across the world, I’m driven by curiosity. I’m on a mission to see every U.S. national park, explore cities beyond the tourist checklists, and experience places through their culture — the music, the food, the neighborhoods, and the stories.

This space is where I document it all: the trips that reset me, the places that surprise me, and the experiences that make life feel bigger than routine.

Off the clock. On the map. Always learning.

Forever in progress.

I’ve never been good at standing still.

I’m happiest when I’m learning something new or moving toward something that challenges me. Whether it’s skiing, hiking, or training for a marathon, I’m always in motion — physically and mentally. But it doesn’t stop there. I’m constantly adding to the list: rock climbing, boxing, art classes, learning guitar, picking up new languages, trying whatever sparks my curiosity next.

Sometimes that means juggling more than I probably should. Balancing work, training, creativity, and the urge to try everything can feel chaotic. But this blog is where I figure it out — how to stay curious without burning out, how to commit without losing joy, and how to improve the quality of my life instead of just increasing my screen time.

Forever in progress. Always becoming.

Side Quest Sound Tracks

Music has always been part of how I move through life. There’s a playlist for everything — long drives, early morning runs, slow Sundays, chaotic weeks, new cities, old memories. My taste doesn’t stay in one lane for long. I’ll go from indie to hip-hop to house to folk depending on the mood, and I’m always open to discovering something new.

Side Quest Sound Tracks is where I share the playlists that carry my seasons — the ones I actually have on repeat. The songs that make miles feel shorter, trips feel cinematic, and ordinary days feel a little more intentional.

I’m constantly exploring new genres, new artists, and any opportunity to see live music. There’s something about hearing a song in a room full of people that makes it stick differently.

These are the soundtracks to the in-between moments — and if they resonate with you too, even better.

Growing in Real-Time.

Mindset is where I slow down.

This is where I share the reflections, habits, and quiet resets that help me stay grounded while navigating a full, fast-moving life. Between work, training, travel, and side quests, it’s easy to stay in motion without checking in. This space is my pause button.

Here, I write about the lessons I’m learning in real time — the small mindset shifts, the routines that keep me balanced, the practices that protect my mental well-being, and the boundaries that make growth sustainable. It’s not about having it all figured out. It’s about paying attention.

Because staying ambitious means nothing if you’re not staying well.

Gear, Grub, Good-Finds.

Leesh Reccs is where I share the things that have actually earned a spot in my life.

From trail-tested gear and marathon essentials to go-to meals, favorite coffee spots, and small upgrades that make everyday routines better — if it’s here, it’s because I’ve used it, loved it, and would recommend it without hesitation.

I’m big on quality over hype. The right shoes can change a training cycle. The right snack can save a long drive. The right gear can turn a good trip into a great one.

This is my running list of what’s worth it — so you don’t have to overthink it.

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