Ever stare into the mirror and wonder, “Who am I, really?” It’s a question that can plague many of us at some point, especially during times of transition or personal growth. Maybe you’ve lost a job, experienced a breakup, or simply feel stuck in an endless … These situations can leave you feeling lost, confused, anxious, scared, overwhelmed and emotional, unsure of where you’re headed or who you are at your core.
This is how I have been feeling for a while. I have felt myself losing my confidence, anxiety was a constant companion, whispering doubts in my ear saying things like ; you are not enough, you are not worthy, you are not doing anything right, you are the problem. These transitions can leave you feeling like you’re wearing a metaphorical mask wondering who’s underneath.
Anxiety and the Spiral Downward:
Soon, the lack of confidence morphed into full-blown anxiety. Simple decisions felt overwhelming, and the future seemed like a blurry mess. I felt constantly on edge, my stomach a knot of nervous energy. I felt overwhelmed and emotional. The negative self-talk grew louder, whispering doubts and insecurities in my ear. It became a vicious cycle: feeling anxious, withdrawing, feeling even more lost and confused.
What im doing now is trying to focus on uncovering the things that make me, me. What are my values? What activities light me up? What quirks make me unique. Remember, authenticity is attractive.
Do I Change or Be Myself?
Maybe the question isn’t whether to change or be yourself, but rather embracing who I arm right now while allowing myself to evolve. It’s about shedding the mask and letting my authentic self shine through.
The answer, I discovered, wasn’t about changing who I am, but rather about rediscovering the person hidden beneath the layers of expectations and anxieties. It meant taking off the metaphorical mask and confronting the person staring back at me in the mirror. Things I need to remind myself of are, I am a good person, I am caring, thoughtful, affectionate, empathic, generous, supportive, loving and funny (I think). I have flaws and Im not perfect. I do and say things I wish I could take back and I wish sometimes I could turn back the clock. Something my therapist says to me is to just look at my kids, they are a reflection of who I am and values I have instilled in them.
Embrace the Journey: Self-Discovery is a Marathon, Not a Sprint
The road to self-discovery is rarely a straight line. There will be bumps, detours, and unexpected twists along the way. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t have all the answers right away. The key is to embrace the journey itself.
Here are some ways to keep yourself motivated:
- Be patient: Don’t expect overnight results. Growth takes time and consistent effort.
- Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small. This keeps you moving forward.
- Learn from setbacks: Don’t let setbacks derail you. See them as learning opportunities to refine your approach.
- Find a support system: Surround yourself with positive people who believe in you.
- Be kind to yourself: Treat yourself with the same compassion and kindness you’d offer a friend.
- Creative exploration: I started being more proactive with this blog, a something I was neglecting. It allows me to process me emotions, thoughts and feelings while also allowing me to connect with a part of myself I’d forgotten.
- Nature connection: Spending time outdoors, going for walks, or simply sitting in silence under a tree helped to ground me and reconnect with the present moment.
- Mindfulness practices: Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help manage anxiety and cultivate a sense of inner peace.
- Explore Your Interests: Have you always wanted to try something new? Don’t be afraid to experiment and explore new hobbies that spark your curiosity.
- Reconnect with Loved Ones: Sometimes, the people closest to us can offer valuable insights into who we are. Surround yourself with positive, supportive individuals who can help you see your strengths and weaknesses.
Growing as a Person
So, you’re ready to peel back the layers ? Unveiling yourself is like peeling back layers of an onion. There’s always more to discover. You’ll evolve, change, and learn as you navigate life’s experiences. There will be bumps in the road, moments of doubt, and times where you feel lost again. Celebrate your growth, and most importantly, be kind to yourself. You are worthy of love, happiness, and a life that reflects your true self.
Remember, you are not alone in this. Many people grapple with feeling lost and confused. Embrace the questions, the challenges, and the growth that comes with uncovering your authentic self.
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