It’s so easy to be hard on yourself, it’s the most destructive form of behaviour. You are doing your best and that’s all that really matters. It’s so easy to look at everyone and think you’re the only one not doing well. We all have good days and bad days we just don’t tend to show the bad days. When you see all your friends going out and having fun what you might not realise is the night before they cried themselves to sleep. We all put up a front and show a highlight reel of our lives but the truth is no one is doing as good as they say. Just focus on your life. A flower doesn’t bloom overnight. If you are at rock bottom then the only way is up. Take your time and do what’s best for you.
I have been plotting and planning away for a while now and sometimes it feels like you are getting nowhere while you watch all your friends have fun and getting on with their lives. It’s so disheartening and you question why can’t I have that. Truth is we all progress at different times. You might not be there yet but keep going and when you’re getting somewhere your friends might be at a low. No one’s journey is easy. Just think how good it will be when you get there.
Anyone can get depression. You never know what’s going on in someone’s life, be a little kinder than necessary. I remember sitting in a counselling session and the lady saying to me “I’m sorry but I don’t know how to help you.” At that moment I realised that people don’t know enough about mental health. From the outside, nothing should be wrong but oh boy how my head turns against me some days. She couldn’t get that. She thought I had to of had a really messed up life to feel the way I do. Wrong! I had an amazing childhood with my parents. That’s why it’s important not to judge. We are all going through something. I love sitting on the bus and looking around at everyone and wondering who’s dancing in a daydream and who’s got the weight of the world on their shoulders.
Self-love is something I’m extremely passionate about. Loving yourself is the key to everything. It’s not just thinking you look good in the mirror but recognising when you need to move on and let go. It’s moving out of your comfort zone and throwing yourself in the deep end and learning to swim. You will find your way. It will benefit you in the long run and make you happy in time. Right now it’s the scariest thing but love yourself enough to push yourself towards your goal.
Truth is no one knows what they are doing. Just follow what you love and keep going. People are going to judge your path and make comment on it but tune them out. They are just as unsure as you. Listen to yourself and make yourself proud no matter how big or small the achievement, clap for yourself. Whatever it is you are capable of it and I am rooting for you! Keep your chin up and be brave.
Lots of love and happiness
Alice xo
Alice Woodward 