Escaping Escapism: How to Manage Anxiety Without Substances

Transform Your Life: The Power of Two Simple Lists

Update Finding Yourself After Losing Your Way Sometimes, the most profound insights about ourselves come during our darkest moments. For many, an identity crisis stems from a significant life change—like the end of a relationship or a life-altering decision. In the case of Sara Mitich, it was the cancellation of her wedding, a moment which unraveled everything she thought she knew about herself. One day, she found herself standing in her kitchen, confronted by a startling revelation: she didn’t even know what kind of music she liked. This reflection spiraled before her eyes, exposing the deeper truth that she also didn’t know her own values, opinions, nor identity. The Challenge of People-Pleasing Mitich narrates her struggle with identity shaped by others' expectations—a common experience in our interconnected world. Many adults grapple with the desire to be liked, often changing themselves to fit into a mold created by peers or culture. While the ability to adapt can be seen as a strength, for Mitich, it became her prison. The guise of being likable masked her true self, crafting an existence that felt hollow and unfulfilling. This experience resonates well with adults striving for a mentally balanced lifestyle; the pressure to conform can drown out one’s authentic voice. Our environments often dictate how we perceive ourselves, leading people to lose touch with their desires and needs. Recognizing this can be the first step toward a healthier, authentic life. Creating Lists: The Roadmap to Discovery Amidst the chaos of her emotional turmoil, Mitich turned to journaling—a turning point that could benefit anyone facing confusion or self-doubt. She created two lists: “Who I Am” and “Who I Want to Be.” This exercise not only provided clarity but also facilitated a profound understanding of her struggles and aspirations. Your own lists can serve as a powerful tool for self-discovery. By candidly cataloging your fears, anxieties, and characteristics, and contrasting those with your ideal self, you establish clear benchmarks for personal growth. Mitich's honesty in her first list revealed her anxiety, guilt, and people-pleasing attributes, while the second list illuminated her aspirations for a calmer, more authentic existence filled with self-love. Writing as a Form of Therapy Journaling has long been recognized for its therapeutic benefits. It helps clarify thoughts, reduce stress, and foster personal expression. The act of writing can serve as an emotional outlet, allowing for introspection and insight into one's feelings and experiences. Not only did this help Mitich navigate her pain, but it also provided a structured path toward healing. For those looking to embark on a similar journey of personal reflection, consider the following tips: choose a quiet time each day, free from distractions, and allow yourself to write without judgment. Embrace the messiness of emotions; this honesty is what leads to growth. Embracing Change: Transformation from Within As Mitich continued to evolve, she learned that personal transformation doesn’t mean shedding one's current self entirely. Instead, it’s about peeling back layers of expectation to reveal your authentic identity. This notion resonates deeply with adults on the path to mental wellness—embracing one’s flaws, aspirations, and unique intricacies is vital in the journey toward self-acceptance. Seeking authenticity also leads to healthier relationships, both with ourselves and others. When we learn to express our true selves without fear, we create space for genuine connections where both parties thrive. Take Steps Towards Self-Discovery The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and immensely valuable. For those feeling lost or unbalanced, creating your own lists of who you are and who you want to be may illuminate the path forward. As you embark on this journey, remember: it’s about finding a balance that suits you, not conforming to anyone else's expectations. As a call to action, I encourage you to take a moment this week to write down your own lists. Reflect on where you are, and jot down where you want to go. This simple exercise could transform your perspective and guide you toward living a more fulfilled, authentic life.