Navigating Self-Comparison: Insights for People with Disabilities

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Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re well. I also hope you had a good and safe Thanksgiving.

Despite assuming we wouldn’t have much of a Thanksgiving this year, we were pleasantly surprised by the outcome. Our housing provided us with some Thanksgiving dinner, complete with my all-time favorite pumpkin pie. They even gave us a turkey, so we ended up having two! We ate one on Thanksgiving and look forward to enjoying the other on Christmas.

I am still trying to publish my blogs every Thursday. So far, it has been working out. If I don’t finish writing blogs on Saturdays, I finish them on Sundays. Then, my editor has Monday to Wednesday to edit my blogs. They sometimes get edited on Thursday morning. I am getting to the point where publishing my blogs regularly is easier if nothing else comes up. What is hard is knowing what nights the kids around our apartment will be quiet so I can make YouTube videos. Anyway, let’s get into today’s blog.

Understanding the Impact of Self-Comparison on Mental Health

I’ve noticed that people with disabilities are more likely to compare themselves to others. Self-comparison can be detrimental to mental health, especially for those with disabilities. Comparing yourself to others means overlooking your own accomplishments and strengths, leading to low self-esteem and depression. People with disabilities tend to feel like they need to compare themselves to nondisabled people because they think that nondisabled people have more to offer. But it is not true. 

Awareness that all people, including nondisabled people, have flaws is the first step to self-acceptance and personal growth. 

The Role of Social Media in Shaping Perceptions of Disability

Social media loves to create its own definition of disability. For example, if you have a physical disability and difficulty walking long distances, society calls that a disability. But if you have a mental disability or invisible disability, society won’t call that a disability because you are “able-bodied.” 

Cultivating Self-Compassion: Tools for Positive Self-Reflection

Cultivating self-compassion involves self-reflection. Developing a healthy mindset can include journaling and being positive. It can encourage you to have self-acceptance.

You can learn how to treat yourself with the kindness you deserve by practicing self-compassion; this is especially important for those with disabilities. It’s not just a practice, but a powerful tool for building a more supportive and positive mindset. It’s about empowering yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend and, in doing so, recognizing your own worth.

Finding Community and Support: Connecting with others

Finding a support system is vital for those navigating the challenge of self-comparison. Connecting to those with similar experiences can provide validation and encouragement.

Finding where you belong can help you combat isolation and comparison, whether through online forums, local support groups, or social media communities. It is very important to remember that everyone has their own journey, and every journey is unique. 

Embracing Individuality: Celebrating Your Unique Strengths

Embracing individuality is a powerful antidote to self-comparison. Each and every person has their own strengths and experiences that shape their identity.

Focusing on personal achievements and celebrating what makes you unique, such as your talents, skills, or personal qualities, gives you a sense of pride and confidence that diminishes the urge to compare yourself to others. 

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Navigating Grief During the Holidays: Coping Strategies for Thanksgiving and Christmas

Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well. I am back with another blog. I’m almost getting the hang of writing them and posting them regularly, but it is still challenging to manage my time because procrastination is kicking my butt, to be honest. Thank you again for all of your patience!  

It’s that time of year again  — Thanksgiving and Christmas are around the corner. Today is Thanksgiving, and Christmas is 3 ½ weeks away. So, I want to talk about grieving during the holidays in today’s blog.

Understanding the Impact of Grief During the Holidays

The holiday season can be particularly challenging for those experiencing grief. The absence of loved ones during the holidays can cause immense sadness every year when holidays roll around. That’s why I want everyone to know that grieving during the holiday season is not only perfectly normal but also a shared experience that many of us go through.

Many people feel pressure to continue experiencing joy and happiness despite the holiday season. Those pressures can lead to isolation. It’s essential not to ignore your feelings while allowing yourself to grieve. You need to understand that you are not alone.

Creating New Traditions to Honor Loved Ones

I remember going to my Uncle R.J.’s house every Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. We would spend the holidays with our family and their friends. My cousin was born on Christmas Eve, so we spent the holidays with them every year. After that, we would drive down south to Ka’u and spend Christmas and New Years with my Aunty Colleen and Uncle Randy.

But when I left my grandma Nan’s house after graduating high school, the family traditions with me stopped. Then, when the family’s anchor, Nan, passed away, the family traditions stopped completely.

But you have to remember that you can start new traditions in memory of a loved one who passed. This can include lighting a candle in their memory, sharing stories of them with friends or other loved ones, or even preparing their favorite dish. All these rituals can help keep their memory alive so you can remember their impact on your life. 

Practical Coping Strategies for Holiday Gatherings

When attending gatherings during the holidays, having a plan for managing your emotions can be helpful. Consider setting boundaries, such as taking breaks when things get overwhelming. It is essential to communicate with family so they know how to help you with the grieving process. You also have to consider your feelings and give yourself time to process them. Taking deep breaths can help you cope, and stepping outside for fresh air can do wonders during those moments that feel unmanageable. 

Finding Support: Connecting with Others Who Understand

Getting support from other grieving individuals can be beneficial. You should also consider talking to your friend, a loved one, or even a counselor so they can help you deal with your feelings. You can even attend support groups that help you grieve.

Sharing your feelings with those who truly understand can give you comfort. These connections can help reduce feelings of isolation and remind you that it’s okay to grieve and seek help during tough times.

Embracing Self-Care During the Festive Season

Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity, especially when dealing with grief. If these emotions arise, you should do something helpful to ease the sadness. For example, you can try prioritizing activities you enjoy or doing something relaxing, from reading and walking to practicing mindfulness and meditation. Giving yourself time to recharge can be beneficial since it helps you cope with your emotions.

It’s okay to say no to events that may feel overwhelming. Taking care of your mental health and well-being should be your top priority before everything else.

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What does Premature Mean? Advocating for Change to Maternal and Infant Health

Hello, Jhana’s Supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well. I am back with another blog article, hoping to publish more regularly. I haven’t decided how often I will do my YouTube videos for Jhana’s Writing Journey, so I will post them randomly for now. Please stay tuned for updates! Now, let's get into today’s blog.

I want to talk about being premature, what it means, and how it affects me. 

Understanding Premature Birth: Advocating for Change in Maternal and Infant Health

A full-term pregnancy typically lasts about 40 weeks. Being born premature means you are born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Premature birth is categorized into three groups:

• Extreme preterm (less than 28 weeks)

• Very preterm (28 to 32 weeks)

• Moderate to late preterm (32 to 37 weeks)

According to the CDC, about 1 in 10 infants in the United States is born prematurely, with 380,000 premature births annually. These babies often spent quite some time in the NICU.

Understanding the effects of prematurity on the individual is crucial for raising awareness. It’s part of advocating for people who are born premature. Those born prematurely will experience complications, including respiratory issues, developmental delays, and long-term disabilities.

The Impact of Premature Birth on Infant Health and Development

The impact of premature birth on an infant’s health can be long-lasting. Premature infants often face challenges such as undeveloped organs, difficulties in feeding, and increased susceptibility to infections. This can lead to more hospital stays and medical problems.

The consequences of premature birth can be limited to childhood but also carry through to adulthood. Studies show that preterm children may experience cognitive and behavioral issues, affecting their educational achievements and social interactions. Understanding this allows people to highlight the urgent need for prevention and support strategies.

Maternal Factors Contributing to Premature Birth: A Call for Awareness

Many factors can contribute to the risk of premature birth, including the mother’s age, health conditions, and lifestyle choices. Women younger than 17 or older than 35, as well as those with chronic health issues, such as diabetes or hypertension, are at a higher risk. Additionally, mothers struggling with substance abuse issues or those without enough prenatal care are also more likely to give birth prematurely. 

Raising awareness is crucial because these are serious problems, and spreading awareness will help people understand what families with premature children go through. Moreover, educating other women about the importance of prenatal care and healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of prematurity and promote healthy pregnancies, improving newborn outcomes. 

Advocacy and Policy Changes Needed for Maternal and Infant Health

To address the issue of premature birth, it’s crucial to advocate for those who were born prematurely. We need policies that address social determinants of health, such as economic stability, education, and access to proper healthcare. By advocating for these changes, we can create a more supportive environment for mothers and infants and ultimately reduce the rates of premature birth.

Resources and Support for Families Facing Premature Birth

Families facing premature birth require additional support to navigate the upcoming challenges. Resources such as support groups, educational materials, and access to healthcare professionals specializing in neonatal care can be invaluable in these situations. 

Hospitals and healthcare providers can play a crucial role by offering families comprehensive care plans and emotional support during this stressful time. Such resources can help affected families cope and thrive in the face of premature birth.

The significance of Premature Awareness Month

November is Premature Awareness Month, and November 17th is World Prematurity Day. It’s a perfect time to highlight the challenges faced by families affected by preterm birth. 

Personal Stories: The Impact of Premature Birth

The best way to truly understand premature birth is to hear personal experiences from families that dealt with it. While these stories can be heart-wrenching, they’re also incredibly inspiring.

So, now I want to share my story with you.

My Story

I was born at 35 weeks gestation; this means I was born two months too early. I weighed just 2 pounds and 3 ounces. As a result of my premature birth, I was born with Spina Bifida, Encephalocele, and Hydrocephalus. 

After birth, I was put in the NICU for months. Since I was premature and with disabilities, I had problems growing up. These included difficulty with walking and learning. I also couldn’t attend PE classes. 

Despite the challenges I faced due to my premature birth, I am now 33 years old and thriving. My journey taught me the importance of advocacy, and I couldn’t be happier to be alive. Even though I was born a preemie, I will continue to push through all obstacles. I encourage you to do the same. Together, we can make a difference.

 

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Real-Life Examples of Disability Discrimination

Hello, Jhana’s Supporters! It’s your disability advocate, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well. I’m sorry for the lack of a blog article last week. I promise I will still try to publish regularly. I’m also trying to manage my time better, which is challenging with school and procrastination. Procrastination is actually the reason why I sometimes don’t publish on time. 

That said, I am still involved with my brand. I’ve redesigned my website and put up a new short story called “The Assault of Jamie Dawson.” You can read it on my website.

Today, I want to discuss disability discrimination, define it, and explain its legal framework. So, let's dive into today’s blog article.

Understanding Disability Discrimination: Definitions and Legal Framework

While all discrimination is an issue, those with disabilities experience it more frequently. It’s sad but true. Disability discrimination happens when people with disabilities are treated less than others because of their disability.

On July 26, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into law. That document prohibits discrimination in employment, public service, public accommodations, and telecommunications. Even though this law is in place to protect people with disabilities, discrimination still happens. Sure, these protections are there. However, there are many real-life instances exposing systemic biases and failures to accommodate individuals with disabilities. That’s why it’s vital to understand disability discrimination, recognize when it happens, and address these injustices.

Discrimination can be direct or indirect. Direct discrimination means treating people with disabilities unfairly and differently than “normal” people. It can go as far as refusing employment based on disability. Indirect discrimination means making the workplace inaccessible for people with disability. It affects not only the workplace but also things like handicapped parking places. Even though the discrimination law is in place, discrimination is still everywhere. So, we have to fight to change it.

Workplace Challenges: Discrimination in Hiring and Employment Practices

Although this has never happened to me, discrimination in the workplace is prevalent for people with disabilities. Some examples of disability discrimination in the workplace include failure to provide reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, inaccessible work environments, or discriminatory hiring practices where qualified candidates with disabilities are overlooked. If you’re visually impaired, you might be denied a job simply because the hiring staff thinks you can’t use a computer without needing assistance.

Other challenges in the workplace include a lack of promotion opportunities and unequal pay for employees with disabilities. It’s also been reported that employees have faced harassment or retaliation after requesting necessary accommodations. 

Educational Barriers: Accessibility Issues in Schools and Universities

Sadly, students with disabilities also face barriers. These range from inaccessibility to insufficient support services, among others. Students using wheelchairs might study in inaccessible buildings or lack the necessary equipment.

People with learning disabilities might not receive appropriate accommodations as well. This has happened to me. I went to Ashford University (now called the University of Arizona Global Campus). They expected me to read the instructions and a ridiculous amount of material, which was a struggle for me. I have a learning disability, and the professors weren’t helping me. As a result, I was getting bad grades. Then, I dropped out after my uncle passed away. After a while, my new friend introduced me to Full Sail University. Now, I am in college to get my BFA in Creative Writing. It’s going great; I only had one instructor who used my disability against me. I also felt like I did not learn in that class, so I’m glad that one is over. 

It’s also worth noting that some educators and administrators don’t have the proper training to help people with learning disabilities. They don’t know how to help or address their concerns, which could lead to discrimination. For example, a professor might explain an assignment in a complicated way, causing some students to misunderstand what to do. In another example, the professor might refuse to provide lecture notes in advance. Instructors and teachers sometimes disregard the needs of other students, causing them to struggle. These educational barriers prevent them from achieving academic success and impact social inclusion and self-esteem. 

Public Accessibility and Social Exclusion: Navigating Daily

Disability discrimination exists in other areas of life, not just employment and education. There’s also inaccessible public transportation, buildings without ramps, and a lack of sign language interpreters. I even noticed that handicapped parking is not accessible for people with disabilities, which is insane (at least that’s how it is in Hawaii). These are examples that demonstrate how societal infrastructure often fails to cater to people with disabilities. 

Social exclusion also occurs in more subtle forms, such as the negative portrayal of individuals with disabilities in media or the lack of disability representation in political and leadership roles. 

Knowing how to take proper precautions to handle this issue is very important. These can include talking to the school, employers who will listen, and the governor of your area. It is also crucial to recognize the importance of inclusion and take proactive steps toward accommodating individuals with disabilities. It’s not just a legal imperative but a moral one. After all, no one’s disability should define them. 

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Healing Together: Strategies for Couples Dealing with Depression

Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well. To be completely honest, posting constantly does not seem to work. Also, publishing my pieces at 10 AM doesn’t seem to work either. Since my editor is in a different time zone (she is 11 hours ahead of me), it is sometimes hard to coordinate our schedules. As a result, it might be better to post my blogs at night, but I’m not sure yet. I am new to making schedules and sticking to them. As I’ve mentioned, I’m used to writing and posting randomly, so doing it more regularly will take some adjusting. I will try to post on Thursdays, but it might not always be at the same time.

In other news, I’ve revised my website for better access. I’ve also made some changes simply because I didn’t like how it looked and functioned. I also redid my YouTube videos after I was advised to put a touch of color on the wall visible in the background of my YouTube videos. So, my fiancé bought me a tapestry and lights to hang around it. Now, it looks nice, as you can see in the picture below. 

Without further ado, let’s get into today’s blog post, in which I will talk about dealing with depression and supporting your significant other. 

Understanding Depression and Its Impact on Relationships

Dealing with depression is hard for anyone. But dealing with depression when you are in a relationship can be even more challenging. You have to figure out how to support your significant other through their depression and other difficulties. One of the things people go through is isolation and misunderstandings. It’s essential to recognize that depression is not one-sided; it can affect both partners in a relationship. That’s why understanding the symptoms of depression is crucial.

Depression can lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings. It can cause conflict in a relationship, making it necessary to approach the situation with compassion and patience. It’s vital to understand that depression is a psychological and mental condition, not a personal choice. 

Open Communication: The Key to Connection

Open communication is essential in every relationship, particularly in a romantic one. Practicing open communication is even more crucial when dealing with depression. Couples dealing with depression should create a safe space for each other where they can express their feelings without fear of judgment. Talking about your feelings and what you’re going through is healing. Going over the struggles, as well as the small victories that come with managing depression, can be highly beneficial.

There are several ways to develop healthy, open communication. For example, try setting aside regular times to talk with your significant other to ensure both partners feel heard and understood. Make sure to listen to one another to strengthen your relationship. 

When my fiancé and I first started dating, I was afraid to talk to him about my feelings. Now, we’ve developed solid communication skills, and things have improved. 

Building a Supportive Environment for Healing

It is imperative to be in a supportive environment to heal from depression. That’s why it’s helpful to surround yourself with friends and family members who have your best interest at heart. Additionally, creating a routine can promote healing and mental well-being. For example, you can try exercising, journaling, or something completely different that works for you. Couples should work together to identify stressors in their lives and find ways to minimize them.

You should also express your appreciation for each other and celebrate one another’s achievements. If you think positively, there is less chance that you will think negatively. That way, you can decrease your risk of feeling depressed. 

Engaging in Activities Together to Boost Mood

Participating in enjoyable activities can help couples reconnect and improve their mood. You can start small, but make sure to choose things you both like and enjoy doing. For instance, try taking a walk, cooking together, or engaging in a hobby. These activities provide a welcoming distraction and foster closeness.

It’s better to find activities both partners will enjoy since you will be more engaged in what you’re doing. Personally, Robert and I don’t do any walking as a couple or anything like that. For us, talking about our depression works best.

Seeking Professional Help as a Couple

Some people think getting professional help as a couple is pointless, but I disagree. It can actually be beneficial. I know it’s true from personal experience because Rob and I each have a personal counselor, and then we have a couple’s counselor together. That way, we can work on our individual issues and then on problems as a couple.

Having a therapist can help couples improve communication and help them understand one another. A healthy discussion can positively impact the couple and help partners understand each other more. 

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Navigating Depression in College

Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well since I’m back with another blog post! 

As I’ve mentioned, I will try to write my blogs on Saturdays around 10:30 AM and post them every Thursday at 10 AM. I also have a quick announcement: I am working on my new YouTube channel and just finished revising my website. Now, I am writing short stories about disability and inclusion.

I haven’t figured out how often I will post my YouTube videos — right now, it will happen sporadically. Finding time to do things is hard when school takes up so much of my time.

I have six more months until graduation, and I am very excited. I might make my YouTube videos every weekend, but I don't know yet. I will let you know my plans when I figure things out. Now, let's get into today’s blog article. 

I usually talk about physical and invisible disabilities. Because of that, I have never really talked about depression. So today, I want to talk about dealing with depression in college. It’s vital to discover helpful strategies for dealing with depression so that you can have a better college experience. 

Understanding Depression in the College Context

College can be a challenging time for many students. Academic pressure, among other factors, can significantly contribute to depression. It can trigger depression symptoms and make coping with them much harder. College students are learning who they are and who they want to be, which can be both overwhelming and exciting. 

Recognizing the signs and stressors that students face is essential in acknowledging the importance of mental health care during this period. People who deal with depression can experience challenges that other people aren’t aware of. For example, they could be under a lot of pressure to succeed or deal with homesickness, financial burdens, and the challenge of balancing work and social life. All of these things can cause depression in college students.

Identifying Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Students

Depression can occur in many different ways. That’s why identifying its signs and symptoms is the most important step to asking for help. The signs could include sadness or hopelessness and a loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy. Most students will exhibit a decrease in academic performance as well. When someone is depressed, their performance at school suffers. There’s also the risk they might drop out of school because they feel like their depression won’t get any better.

I went to a college in California called Ashford University (now the University of Arizona Global Campus). When I was there, I wasn't doing so well. The work was super hard, and I had more reading than I was used to. I was trying to get my BA in Child Development. I didn’t care enough to do my FAFSA, so they withdrew me because my attendance suffered.

Then, a year and a half later, I decided to go back to school and change my degree to English. Unfortunately, it only lasted a couple of months because that was when my uncle passed away. After that, I took academic leave in hopes of returning a month later, but I was still depressed. So, I dropped out again because I was unhappy. 

Long story short, I found out about Full Sail University during my journey with depression, so I applied and got in. I won’t lie; I still get depressed. But I have a better handle on it. I am in the BFA in the Creative Writing program and graduate next year. Despite my depression, I am now a member of the honors society (NSCS), thanks to my GPA above 3.0. I know how to handle my depression and am determined to get my degree. So, I am pushing through it. 

Where You Can Find Help

Since I am an online college student, I don’t have the proper help from school. I have a counselor I see twice a month. I also used to talk to someone from hospice. Some instructors are very understanding and trained to help people with depression have a smooth college experience. But not all of them are.

That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs by yourself. Some people think asking for help is a sign of weakness. But the truth is asking for help is a sign of strength. So, don’t be afraid to ask for help. I used to be scared to ask for help, but I’ve learned that everyone needs support sometimes. 

Self-Help Strategies for Managing Depression in College

Aside from professional help, you can use self-help strategies. When dealing with depression, you could write down your feelings or take a walk. You should also learn how to make it a regular thing to prevent future depressive episodes. You can also cook your favorite meal or dessert and do deep breathing exercises that can reduce stress. 

Having supportive friends and family members who understand what you are going through is also extremely beneficial. 

How You Can Support a Friend Dealing with Depression

If you have a friend who is struggling with depression, it is up to you to help them. When helping them, make sure you do so without judgment. Be there for them and encourage them to get professional help. 

Respecting their privacy is crucial; if they don’t want to talk about it, don’t rush them. I know when I am depressed, I don’t ask for help until I am ready. So, be understanding of others.

And one last thing: There is nothing wrong with being depressed. It’s the way you handle it that makes the difference. 

 

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Strategies for Managing Jealousy: When Living with Disability

Hello, Jhana’s supporters! It’s your disability advocate and writer, Jhana. I hope you’re all doing well. I’m sorry for not posting an article last week. I’m still trying my hardest to work on my blog posts once a week. I plan on writing on Saturdays to have my articles ready for my editor during the week. Then, I can publish them on Thursdays. 

I had a challenging class last month but passed with a D+. Now, I’ve started a new class that will hopefully be much better.

I also want to let you all know that I am revising my “Jhana’s Writing Journey” website. I will add new things and revise other stuff to make it better and more accessible. So, please stay tuned. Now, let’s get into today’s blog!

I’ve talked about so many things, from disability inclusion to why you should always stay true to who you are regardless of your disability. I’ve also talked about being in a relationship with a disability, but I have never discussed jealousy in a relationship when you have a disability.

Understanding the Roots of Jealousy in the Context of Disability

In my experience, jealousy usually happens when the partner with a disability is jealous of the partner without one. Jealousy occurs when you lack confidence and compassion. Jealousy can stem from various things, but it’s often a result of the differences between what the partner without a disability can do compared to the partner with one. Still, it’s important to remember that jealousy is a natural human emotion. It can happen whether a person has a disability or not, but the way you handle it is up to you. 

It’s a common misconception that only people with disabilities experience jealousy in relationships. But it is essential to understand that everyone deals with jealousy, no matter their health status. It doesn’t matter if you have a disability or not — you should find a way to deal with these feelings. Personally, I found that having a more mature and constructive response to jealousy is helpful. For example, when someone made a comment about Rob cheating on me, I retorted back, “Are you cheating on me with my evil twin Jessica?” In this case, making a joke about the situation might boost your confidence.

Building Self-Compassion and Acceptance

Self-compassion means treating yourself with kindness and understanding, even through difficult times. It may be hard not to compare yourself to others when you have a disability. Individuals with disabilities may struggle with stigma or personal limitations. That’s why practicing self-compassion helps with accepting their disability in a relationship. 

Acceptance allows you to see through a situation without judgment, easing the burden of jealousy. Finding uniqueness in your journey takes time, but it can significantly strengthen your sense of peace and commitment. 

Creating a Supportive Community: Surrounding Yourself with Positivity

A support system helps you feel confident with your disability, improving your romantic relationship. So, make sure to surround yourself with positive people who provide encouragement. That’s another excellent way to reduce jealousy. Additionally, understanding friends and family members help boost your confidence. Since they understand your challenges, they can provide you with a nurturing environment. And that’s incredibly important.

It might also be a good idea to try support groups, both online and in person. These can help you build confidence and learn ways to manage your jealousy. After all, talking to someone who knows how you feel is a great way to cope with feelings and emotions. Sharing your experiences with others can help ease your jealousy and equip you with helpful coping techniques.

Practicing Gratitude: Shifting Focus from Lack to Abundance

Remember when I said I made a joke about Rob cheating on me? Well, joking like that helps me cope with jealousy — and it may help you, too.

Another thing you can do is focus on what you have and not what you don’t have. It’s vital to try and shift your perspective from jealousy to acceptance and appreciation. To help with this, you can keep a gratitude journal or reflect on positive aspects of life. That can significantly boost your mental well-being. 

This practice can change your mindset and help you focus more on personal achievements and joy, whether big or small. 

Utilizing Mindfulness Techniques to Manage Emotional Responses

You may want to consider meditation and deep breathing. Personally, I don’t do that anymore, but these techniques can be very beneficial. Now, I use my feelings as I write books and articles. I put all my personal feelings into my characters and the storylines. To be honest, it sometimes helps, and it sometimes doesn’t. But it doesn’t mean I will stop writing about my feelings and emotions. It’s important to let your feelings out in a healthy way, so I will continue to do so. 

Lastly, having an optimistic mindset makes you learn and grow as a person. It also helps you build a stronger, healthier relationship and makes processing jealousy easier. Plus, it may help you have a better outlook on life. 

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