From Dizziness to New Beginnings

I asked two people what the image above made them think of. The first said, “Dizziness,” and the second, “New Beginnings.” How we perceive and experience life and the world around us greatly varies from person to person. Our personalities, upbringing, past trauma, overall outlook on life, and so much more determine how we react to situations that come our way.

I want to be open with you. I want to be vulnerable. Real. There’s not enough “realness” in the world anymore.

How do I explain where I’ve been for the past several months? Everyone knows consistency is the key to writing, so why stop? The answer comes with more questions:

How do I write about standing strong when my own life feels like it’s spinning out of control?

How can I encourage you to take your goals and dreams one step at a time when my thoughts are swirling mercilessly, and I can’t focus on a single task that’s right in front of me?

How can I tell you to face your fears when I’m frozen in mine?

How can I lift your spirit and lighten your load when all I feel is unbearable heaviness?

Perhaps you’ve heard the saying, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” The truth is, I was running on fumes, and eventually, my tank hit “E.”

I have a great life. I really do. That being said, the past several months have been the most difficult I’ve faced in years for multiple reasons. I’m not going to give you a woe-is-me list of stuff that’s come up, but I will share one thing that’s made all those other situations more complicated:

I struggle with depression and anxiety. Trying to hide that takes more energy than I can afford to muster, so I’m done hiding. Mental health is a major concern for so many, and if you struggle in this area as well, please know you’re not alone. You’re going to be ok!

I’m here now (yay!), but I can’t promise to force the words when I have none. I just can’t. But here is what I can promise you: When I’m able, I promise to be your number one cheerleader. I promise to encourage you to be your best. To grow in grit. To dream big and go for your goals. To stay positive. When I’m able. And when I’m not, I promise to care for myself just as I’d want you to care for yourself.

Thankfully, the spinning has stopped. The swirling has calmed. The fear is dissipating. The heaviness has lifted.

I can breathe. I can hope. I can write. I can encourage. A season of “dizziness” has turned into a “new beginning,” and I’m truly grateful. It’s good to be back with you, dear friend, and I pray you’ve been doing well. Much love…