Hey Carl,

Sorry to read that you’re having a tough time. I know it’s exhausting trying to be everything to everyone. I had tried to do what you have done and be everything to everyone. I can definitely appreciate and agree with what Aly has given you for advice.

I think it’s great that you are taking time for yourself to move and experience how others’ live. You aren’t doing anything wrong Carl. Can’t be hard on yourself or compare yourself with others, some people are better at hiding what is really going on with them. I think you have found what is stopping you in your tracks, the depression. Depression is not an easy thing to overcome. There are plenty of people out there who are suffering from it, just on different scales and with variations of it. The key question is: what do you want to do about it? Not everyone is ready to ask for help with depression, but are you?

There are no quick-fixes for your situation. It will take time and patience on your part. You will have good days and bad days. Imagine your best friend came to you and asked you for your advice about this, what would you tell him or her? This is what you should tell yourself. Be your own best friend, love yourself and be there for you. You are already on your way Carl, you have already said what you don’t want, now is the time to make those changes for yourself and be who you want to be.

I still find myself struggling sometimes, but I have come to realize that I’m doing the best I can with what I’ve got, and that is all that matters. 🙂

I hope you find some peace and love for yourself.

Lucia