Throughout my life, I’ve set numerous personal goals, but the most challenging one has always been rooted in the desire for self-acceptance and fulfillment. I wanted to be someone my parents could be proud of while also learning to love myself. This journey has encompassed my longing to be independent, confident, fit, and beautiful, much like the people I often found myself comparing to. Most importantly, I yearned for happiness and freedom—freedom from the anxiety and depression that have shadowed my life for the past 12 years.
In my mind, the path to achieving these goals felt clear. I envisioned a life where I could escape the constant cycle of self-criticism and comparison, liberating myself from the toxic influences that surrounded me. I didn’t want to be confined to the traditional expectations of society—working a 9 to 5 job, getting married, and having children. Instead, I craved the opportunity to explore, to enjoy everything life has to offer, and to immerse myself in the world around me.
However, as I’ve navigated through the past few years, I’ve come to realize that these dreams often felt unrealistic, particularly for someone like me. The societal pressures and the weight of my mental health struggles have made these aspirations seem increasingly distant. I’ve lost hope along the way, feeling worthless at times, as though I am hollow inside. Every day feels like a battle, and the thought of losing this fight looms over me like a dark cloud.
Yet, amidst this struggle, I hold onto a sliver of hope for my future and the future of others. I remind myself that it’s okay to face obstacles, that it’s okay to not fit into society’s mold. Life is not solely about meeting expectations or fulfilling roles. It’s about the journey, the learning, and the growth that come with it.
Even in my darkest moments, I strive to embrace the beauty of each day. I’m learning that my worth is not defined by my accomplishments or the approval of others, but by my resilience in the face of adversity. It’s about finding joy in the little things and celebrating every small victory, no matter how insignificant it may seem.
So, to anyone who feels lost or overwhelmed, I want to share this: your dreams and goals are valid, even if they seem out of reach. It’s never too late to rewrite your story or redefine your goals. Remember that your journey is uniquely yours, filled with its own challenges and triumphs.
As I continue on this path of self-discovery and healing, I hope for a day when I can say I am proud of who I am—not in comparison to anyone else but simply as my own person. Let’s strive to support one another, to lift each other up, and to believe in the possibility of our dreams. Together, we can navigate the complexities of life and find our way to happiness and fulfillment.
The Thought Box 
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