I’ve talked a lot in the past about how our mental health journey isn’t linear and how it’s normal to expect backslides along the way. I know that my OCD, anxiety and depression are likely to flare up in the future. And I’ve gotten to a place where I don’t judge myself when it happens. The same can’t be said for my tendency to feel like a failure and compare myself to other people in my field. I catch myself judging these harmful thought patterns and often feel ashamed that I haven’t somehow “risen above” this type of thinking.
You know what’s funny? You’re one of the people I consider successful and who I compare myself with sometimes. Of course, as I like your work and been following for years, it’s more of an inspiration, but still is “oh we’re about the same age and she’s written books and has a successful podcast. How can I do that too?”
It’s just so silly because there are some many variables, each person has a path and I’ve been seriously wondering if we’re not exactly where we’re supposed to be.
Been trying to change my perception about myself and success but without beating myself up when I feel like a jealous loser.
Love your work! Read “overthinking about you” and I found it brilliant, fun, relatable and so hopeful! You’re writing is so filled with sense of humor and honesty. Keep up the good work because you’re certainly a success! 😉
This is so lovely to read!! Perception is so powerful and I'm trying to do the same type of shift! Thank you so much for all the support, it means more than you know! xoxo A
I think we might be related based on twin-like similarities in our mental status when my perception of failure kicks in. The go-to then is the family's motto: everything is fine fine fine and though this is stupid and trite somehow the stupid mantra kicks in. You are more than fine, your work moving and so compassionate. You are more than fine. ;)
I think this plays into the OCD. Of course you don't want to be obsessed with something, but you are. Maybe you find comfort in measuring success. Maybe you need that because success is an abstract concept and your brain is always looking for reassurance. For example "oh I'm nervous I'll die so I flip this light switch 3 times" it's not logical but your brain needs that. So while it's easy to feel rationally embarrassed of your feelings. The feelings aren't rational. Maybe start measuring success by just concrete things day to day. My mom died last year at age 55. You don't want to look around at 55 and not be happy with your life but I'd offer in a non scary way that you're not guaranteed a 55. So I'd live each day with a small goal in mind and seek out contentment that in that day I did what I wanted to or I'd vow to do better the next day etc. Contentment will only bring peace. Hang in there!
You know what’s funny? You’re one of the people I consider successful and who I compare myself with sometimes. Of course, as I like your work and been following for years, it’s more of an inspiration, but still is “oh we’re about the same age and she’s written books and has a successful podcast. How can I do that too?”
It’s just so silly because there are some many variables, each person has a path and I’ve been seriously wondering if we’re not exactly where we’re supposed to be.
Been trying to change my perception about myself and success but without beating myself up when I feel like a jealous loser.
Love your work! Read “overthinking about you” and I found it brilliant, fun, relatable and so hopeful! You’re writing is so filled with sense of humor and honesty. Keep up the good work because you’re certainly a success! 😉
❤️❤️❤️
This is so lovely to read!! Perception is so powerful and I'm trying to do the same type of shift! Thank you so much for all the support, it means more than you know! xoxo A
I think we might be related based on twin-like similarities in our mental status when my perception of failure kicks in. The go-to then is the family's motto: everything is fine fine fine and though this is stupid and trite somehow the stupid mantra kicks in. You are more than fine, your work moving and so compassionate. You are more than fine. ;)
Aw I love that!! Thank you!! <3 A
I think this plays into the OCD. Of course you don't want to be obsessed with something, but you are. Maybe you find comfort in measuring success. Maybe you need that because success is an abstract concept and your brain is always looking for reassurance. For example "oh I'm nervous I'll die so I flip this light switch 3 times" it's not logical but your brain needs that. So while it's easy to feel rationally embarrassed of your feelings. The feelings aren't rational. Maybe start measuring success by just concrete things day to day. My mom died last year at age 55. You don't want to look around at 55 and not be happy with your life but I'd offer in a non scary way that you're not guaranteed a 55. So I'd live each day with a small goal in mind and seek out contentment that in that day I did what I wanted to or I'd vow to do better the next day etc. Contentment will only bring peace. Hang in there!
thank you so much for this! It's a great reality check. Sending lots of love <3