Jesslyn

What has your mental health journey taught you about self-awareness?

I’ve learned that you cannot pour from an empty cup. Self-awareness means knowing yourself so well that when the first red flag appears, you don’t ignore it—you address it before your mental health forces you to. It’s paying attention to the signals within you so you can avoid the hurricane forming around you. It’s recognizing when to disconnect, pull back, and recharge. It’s understanding yourself and your needs so clearly that the giant doesn’t gain the upper hand—you do. Self-awareness is knowing when to slow down, adjust, pray, reach out, or simply rest. And most importantly, on your journey, self-awareness has become the place where you meet the transforming strength that comes from knowing God.

How do you celebrate moments of stability or peace?

I have learned over many years to value my time, space, and peace. I reward myself for getting through yet another storm, knowing I am stronger because of what I’ve overcome. I often celebrate by enjoying a good book or by writing, because both are part of my healing process. I set the boundaries I need learning to say “no” and refuse to let my plate get too full. And when I look back and see how far I’ve come, I realize that is more than enough reason to keep going.

How do you encourage yourself to keep going on hard days?

When difficult days come, I pour myself into Scripture. Even on the days I feel like I can’t endure anymore, I remind myself that my record for getting back up is still 100%. This too will pass, and peace will come again. It’s a beautiful thing when you realize that your peace doesn’t come from the standards or expectations of others. Not everyone you meet deserves a seat at the table of your journey. There is freedom in letting go of circumstances—and even people—that keep you from becoming the best version of who God called you to be. You get to decide who has access to your heart, your mind, and your peace. No one can disturb it unless you allow them.

How do you stay connected to your values or sense of purpose?

I stay connected to the One who upholds me with His righteous right hand. When the noise of life gets too loud and my emotions begin to shift, I remind myself of the purpose and the mission God placed on my heart—to help other women through the wisdom I’ve gained on my journey. I stay rooted by remembering who I am and whose I am, and by trusting that any kind of growth takes time. It’s okay if not everyone understands your purpose; what matters is having the courage to walk away when others no longer respect the calling God has placed over your life.

Jesslyn

What has your mental health journey taught you about self-awareness?

How do you celebrate moments of stability or peace?

How do you encourage yourself to keep going on hard days?

How do you stay connected to your values or sense of purpose?

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