This motivational series begins with a single question and a simple answer. One of the keys to life is a good question, even if there aren’t answers yet:
What challenge or obstacle have you overcome that can motivate someone else?
I have overcome depression and anxiety. Some years ago my anxiety was very high, but since I mask very well I didn’t realize it until I had three panic attacks and a ministroke within six months. I knew something had to change.
The first set of changes were internal. I decided to pursue God at all cost. He taught me to love and value myself like never before. I changed my self talk from negative to positive. I slowed down to pay attention to my emotions. These small changes began to show up externally. I began investing in my health, staying consistent with my exercise and mealtimes, and going to bed earlier. I speak up when things bother me before I get upset. Now I can interact with difficult people without blowing up or shutting down, and I am learning to love and value them as much as I’m learning to love myself. Change has ripple effects.
As a result, my counselors have said I am no longer depressed or anxious. I’m tackling other challenges of life with determination and resilience. And most of all, as I overcome, people around me are being motivated to overcome their challenges as well, and now we’re overcoming together. The small invisible internal changes are not only external but also flowing out to others.
Anxiety and depression weren’t the end of my story. Don’t let them be the end of yours.
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