As I reflect on my personal growth, I’d like to share in the hopes that others in emotional distress may read this and remember they're not alone.
Those of us born in the 90s have already seen some of the biggest technological advances of any generation. This, in turn, has changed how we all interact socially.
From Walkmans to iPhones, technology and connectivity have exploded. The way our minds respond to social cues, notifications, and subtext has been warped in the wake of predatory algorithms that want your time, attention, and money.
This has naturally coincided with a universal rise in mental health issues. Depression and anxiety are at all-time highs - and in my opinion, social media must carry a portion of the blame.
Add in that we all grow up so differently.
Different cultures, different families, different wealth, different confidence, different trauma.
Most people on the internet aren’t privy to what makes you who you are - and that can be a blessing and a curse.
In every effort to dream big and be the person you want to be, you also invite mainly anonymous heads to inspect, dissect and interpret your intentions.
I don’t think many of us truly understand what that can feel like until we’re in the throws of it.
I believe most set out with the best intentions, and when the going gets tough, the easiest place to go is inside.
In our enterprise, to create a fair, transparent and open future, I fear we currently place too much blame on mistakes.
Many are putting themselves out there for inspection, attempting to build the future honorably - and are quickly vilified when perfection isn’t achieved.
Of course, there is a difference between malice and blunder.
But we often don’t get to hear the entire story before the court of public opinion has made up their minds.
Caught in the drama, so steadfast in their beliefs that they are unwilling to hear anything that may challenge their thought process. Or, god forbid, make them admit that they were wrong.
So what have I learned?
1. Time heals
As cliché as this may sound, it cannot be more true. Whatever you’re going through can be and will get better in time. The further you get from the point, the more you heal.
2. Rash decisions are rarely right
I’m extremely thankful to still be here, and it saddens me that I almost took potential happiness, growth, and love away from not only myself but those who care for me.
3. The growing never stops
For me, I am at my most susceptible when I stagnate. Rest is important, but so is having short and long-term goals for life and health.
This helps frame what you want to achieve while giving you multiple reasons to get out of bed.
4. Help is always there. You need only ask
Friends, family, hotlines, DMS. There is a wealth of support at the ready.
The hardest part is getting the courage to just ask.
5. It’s okay to fail
Failing is human nature. It’s truly the only way we learn. While others may seem savage in their opinions of you, every interaction is an opportunity to grow.
I am far from well still. It’s a journey. One I am very thankful to still be on. Mental health isn’t something to be “fixed” - but rather a muscle we must continually exercise.
Thank you to those who have been so imperative to my recovery. I will never forget your kindness and will forever endeavor to pay it forward.
Some will call this virtue signaling, those who will mock in private discord channels -
However, some may have just needed to hear that it gets better. This is for you. You are not alone.
I still have so much to learn and miles to go before I sleep.
And knowing that is all I need to know.
*This article was adapted from a Twitter thread by Toby Lasso*
Comentarios