Alone?? Perspective Check!

Are we truly ever alone, or do we just convince ourselves that we are? Maybe it's the work done by the little devil on our left shoulder or our insignificant self-conscious self within piping in her two cents when we have deflated a bit and it is easiest. Either way, the question stands. Do we create barriers, blockading ourselves from the world because we perceive it as being easier then just putting forth the energy of a simple smile or friendly hello to engage in conversation? It's hard. It sucks. It makes us all roll our eyes. But why? Why is it acceptable to give up on ourselves- our goals- our dreams- our true desires- when we are drained of energy, are sick or when our days have just turned to complete and utter chaos?

Truth is, like anything else, we plant these feelings in ourselves. We choose to let that little devil appear and whisper sweet bullshit in our ears- better yet, we eat it up. Wanting to believe that it is impossible to always 'stay' or 'act' happy, that no one can truly be that overjoyed with life. Why not try? Why not put down that bowl of ice cream or easy-mac on a bad day and say "is this actually helping me- long term?" Best of all, I bet you justified it, huh? "Well today is really rough, and...well....I just need it." Bullshit. I've been there. I've said it but that self talk is as good as your little devil. Love yourself to tell yourself you're better. Say it out loud. Three times. "I am better. I am better. I am better." You may be thinking this is utter crap. You may be thinking what does an eighteen year old know about life. Maybe something, maybe nothing. Depends who you ask. What I am certain I do know is that sometimes we all just need a little insight. Whether your battle is minimal or monumental, it is still a battle. It still takes strength, perseverance and focus. And it is in these battles that we often find ourselves lost and in need of a little kick perspective check. So, if it's diet/exercise, a relationship, academics, an illness, etc. then my advice is to do what needs to be done--and with a smile; a smile always makes you feel better and your heart ache less.
Keep it simple. Keep it light. Keep it real.
...and always remember, you're not alone.

- Kate