In this past week, I dealt with the pain and upside of surgery, and wrestled with an existential question.
Aftermath of therapy
This week is all about the experience and fallout of an intense therapy session—extreme agitation, the pleasure of a strong support system, and the clarity that came through journaling.
An experienced beginner
This week brings some thoughts on a surprise struggle, a parenting win, and pragmatic sketching.
Mac and cheese and syrup
My update from this week includes a nonsensical meal, an uplifting 1:1, and an evening of sports.
Recharging in Allentown
In my regular weekly update, I share about disappointing others, traveling with my brother, and sketching my surroundings.
Show up & see
After a difficult week, I share about taking days off, presenting to executives, and thoughts on suffering.
Trying out therapy
My first experience with talk therapy was uncomfortable, awkward, and unfulfilling. I have since had fantastic experiences, but the beginning was anything but.
Rebecoming a novice
In my second weekly update, I share about missing medication, blacksmithing, and role-playing as a thuggish henchman.
Spinning in neutral
In the hopes of publishing more regularly, I am trying out a new format. I want to share some thoughts on decisions, milestones, and exercise.
Working remotely
Many of us have been thrust into coping with a global crisis by working from home, if we are lucky. For some, this is a welcome reprieve from the stresses of office life; for all, there are additional challenges. This leads to the question: should we support or pursue remote work when we have a choice?
Servant leadership
One of the most impactful roles in the workplace is the direct manager. This person has a huge effect on our mental and emotional well-being at work. However, this is not the only person who can be a leader. All of us can rise us to be leaders, regardless of positional authority. It is important to consider what kind of leader we are and want to be.
Back pain and panic attacks
Mental health and physical health can be intimately connected, as I found out when I had my first personal exposure to a mental health crisis.
Suggestion of counseling
As someone who grew up largely ignorant of mental health, and the situations and resources connected with it, I was completely taken aback when someone suggested that I consider counseling.
Background and upbringing
One of the first things that I discovered when beginning therapy was to appreciate the impact that my previous life experiences have on my current situation. As I have talked with others, it seems clear that my experience is not unique. We all pass through moments that shape us into who we are today, and in order to understand ourselves, it is helpful to look back on our own history.
My story
I believe that when we are vulnerable and expose our fragility, that act creates a safe space for others to do the same. To that end, the first series that I write will be to share my own experience discovering the world of mental health. As I have been more open about my journey, especially at work, I have found countless others who have had similar experiences but have kept them private. They are often glad for the chance to discuss their struggles in a safe environment. Here’s to increased awareness and decreased stigma!
Getting started
I am excited to get this site up and running. This is a project I have been considering for a while, and finally decided to just start. I read a couple articles and listened to some podcasts this week that discussed asking yourself what you are being called to do right now. As that kept running through my mind, I realized that I have an answer now more than at any time in my life.