Smiling woman with long hair wearing a black and white striped top.
Hayley Matches
A couple dressed in black outfits stand in a natural setting with gravel underfoot. They are posing with a large black dog. The background features green vegetation and rocky terrain.

Hi, I’m Hayley—an entrepreneur based on the West Coast of BC, where I live with my partner, Jonas, and our dog, Lou. I’m deeply passionate about wellness, mental health, and alcohol-free living, which all intertwine in my personal and professional life.

Since January 2019, I’ve been living alcohol-free—a decision that has completely transformed my life in ways I never imagined. I quit drinking at 28, after years of grappling with the age-old question: 'Who am I?' I had hidden behind a party-girl persona, but deep down, I was struggling with my mental health and who I wanted to be in this world.

Eventually, I realized something had to change.

Society normalizes drinking so much that we rarely pause to ask: "Is this actually serving me?"


For me, the answer was no. And choosing to stop drinking wasn’t just about quitting alcohol—it was about breaking free from years of self-doubt, anxiety, and a life that wasn’t aligned with my true values.

This decision marked the beginning of a massive transformation—one that involved reclaiming my mental clarity, rediscovering my passions, and reconnecting with the world in a way I had never experienced before. Life wasn’t about merely getting by anymore; it was about truly living. And while it was hard at first, this transformation has shown me the power of new beginnings. No matter where you start, it’s always possible to change and reinvent yourself.

In addition to living alcohol-free, I’m also navigating life with Charcot-Marie-Tooth, a progressive motor and sensory neuropathy that I was diagnosed with at 15. Living with this condition has come with its own challenges, but it’s also strengthened my belief in the power of resilience and personal growth.

Now, I’m passionate about helping others find their own path to healing, well-being, and authenticity. I work with personal coaching clients, collaborate with a children and youth mental health foundation, and provide admin consulting to small businesses. My mission is simple: to empower others to make life-changing decisions and find fulfillment, joy, and peace.

I created This Unwasted Life as a lifestyle blog for the modern-day woman—one who is craves purpose, adventure and wellness in every area of life.

I hope you find inspiration here!

Much love,

Hayley

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