“Happiness belongs to those who are easily contented.” ~Aristotle
Throughout my childhood, teenage years, and during college, my Mom always told me to be a little more “lighthearted.” Basically, this was my mom’s code language. Her way of saying: “Stop worrying so much! Be grateful for what you have accomplished. Learn to be carefree, cheerful, and excited about life!”
I used to get so angry when she gave me this little, but strikingly simple piece of advice. I felt like she was ignoring my feelings. On the contrary, she was trying to help me manage my anxiety.
I still come back to this sentiment because I worry a lot. I worry about how my writing sounds, how people perceive me, and whether or not I’m doing enough community work. My mom is still right; I need to work on being “lighthearted.” Walking around with a backpack full of worry doesn’t make life very fun. [click to continue…]