When we’re working on our recovery, it can be hard to acknowledge, or even notice, our progress. As you’re reading this, I want you to take a moment to think about your journey and where you are in this moment.
Sometimes it’s hard to give ourselves credit for how far we’ve come. We don’t often think back to where we started or how much we have truly accomplished. ‘Where I am now was once the goal,’ is a quote I found the other day. How beautiful is that? Think back to a year ago. Maybe you were in the depths of your battle, and now, while perhaps you still have your challenges, you’re not where you were. Right now, as you are, you’re in a different place.
Last year, I started learning pole dance. As someone with a disability and many chronic health challenges, this has been something I’ve truly enjoyed but also never thought I’d be able to do. Now, I’m still not great, but my instructor says she’s already noticed improvements – and, friends, I have muscles! However, this had to be pointed out to me. I didn’t notice because change, meaningful change, is gradual, which can often mean we might not notice it. This is the same for my mental health journey. I still have my struggles, but looking back, I’m proud of how much I’ve worked to be where I am now.
Working towards recovery and working towards our future goals is so important. However, it’s equally important to take a moment to look back and appreciate how far we’ve come. Celebrate yourself and be proud of achieving your recovery milestones and goals up to this moment.
Where you are now was once the goal. Don’t forget to acknowledge your journey and the bravery and strength that has gotten you through so much.
-Claudia
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