One of the hardest parts of taking care of my mental health has been learning how to appreciate where I’m at — not where I wish I was.

I’ve made real progress. I know that. But it’s still been a struggle not to feel behind, or disappointed that things aren’t moving faster. That kind of pressure builds quietly, and it takes the joy out of the present.

Lately, I’ve been trying to shift the way I see it. Slower doesn’t mean stuck. Healing isn’t linear. And there’s so much value in pausing to recognize that I’m living parts of the life I used to hope for — even if it doesn’t all look the way I imagined.

It’s a daily practice. Letting go of timelines. Choosing to be proud. Letting joy in, here and now.

If you’re working on this too, I see you. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. 💛