Chapter 1: Understanding the Struggle

This week has been a tough one for me, feeling as if everything is falling apart. However, I’ve started to heed the advice of my supportive friends and have taken some time to step back and reflect.

I never anticipated that mental health could present such challenges for someone like me, a freelance writer. I had always believed that these struggles were exclusive to those in more traditional corporate roles. What’s happening?

Our feelings about our current situation can vary widely. They can shift from month to month, week to week, or even hour to hour. One moment, I might feel on top of the world, like I’m excelling in my freelancing career, and the next, I’m convinced that it’s all about to collapse. I start doubting my worth and relevance in this field.

The feeling of being overrated is my personal kryptonite and a constant source of anxiety. A decade ago, I would let these mood swings dictate my actions. I’d retreat into myself, stop whatever I was working on, and indulge in self-pity, often with a good book in hand.

What should I do? (What am I doing…)

Now, after investing in education and countless hours of watching inspirational content online, I have a better strategy: treadmill workouts, chai (a lovely Indian term for tea), and scrolling through social media. I also find it helpful to journal and clear my mind (I’m using this narrative as my journal entry today… I hope that’s okay). I refer to my capacity planner to stay on top of my tasks and eliminate any distracting thoughts.

I’m sharing this to remind you that it’s perfectly normal to feel down sometimes. You are not alone in this experience.

I can still recall the day in third grade when we were supposed to learn how to tie our shoes. I missed the entire lesson because of a dentist appointment. Fast forward to now, and I still find myself mumbling “Bunny ears, loop it through, pull tight” every time I put on my sneakers. It’s a bit silly, but I never quite learned it the way others did.

So, here I am, three decades later, just tucking in my shoelaces when I’m in a hurry, hoping no one notices.

Nevertheless, here’s the beautiful truth:

Despite all the sophisticated technology at our disposal, we remain fundamentally human! These emotional ups and downs are part of the human experience. Factors such as hormones, surroundings, mood swings, nutrition, trauma, and even cute stickers contribute to our actions and desires.

I want to keep pushing forward. It's as straightforward as that. I’ll acknowledge and manage all the emotions that arise in this journey.

Are you facing challenges this week?

Feel free to open a blank page on Medium and share your thoughts! (Or just leave a comment below.)

As I draw this narrative to a close, I feel a sense of relief. The stress is lifting.

I suppose I've truly turned things around by paying attention to my inner circle.

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Chapter 2: Insights from the Inner Circle

In this episode of Bobby Owsinski's Inner Circle Podcast, Andrew Peters dives deep into the importance of community and mental health for freelancers. Discover how to build a supportive network around you.

Chapter 3: Laughter as Therapy

In Episode 33 of Dre & Smiley's Inner Circle, Michael Cutts shares his journey as a comedian and how humor can be a powerful tool for coping with life's challenges. Learn how laughter can positively impact your mental health.

Hi, I’m Prattay Mazumdar. I am a writer and journalist sharing my experiences. I invite you to join me on this journey and follow along for more stories.