Resilience in Action: My Journey of Building WiseGoals Amidst Mental Health Challenges

There was a time in my life when everything I knew, everything I believed, and everything I was, seemed to disintegrate into nothingness. I was working for local government, running a youth parliament... my life over the past decade was a whirlwind of fun activity, moving from one exhilarating experience to the next. This included living in Japan, lots of travel, and many varied jobs. Then, in one defining moment, my world came crashing down.

James Stevenson

It was as if my entire being—my mind, my thoughts, my body—shut down. I was drained of every ounce of energy. The vibrancy and vitality that had once defined me were replaced by an overwhelming sense of darkness. This wasn’t just a bad day or a rough patch; it was the deepest of depressions. I couldn’t speak or hear at times, and even the simplest of tasks, like standing up or walking downstairs, took an eternity. An hour to stand, another to descend.

I couldn’t work. For eight long years, I was paralyzed by an invisible force that kept me locked away from the world. I became unable to wash for months, and was terrified to leave my house and be seen by others in this state. I couldn’t even scrape together enough money to take a bus to see a friend. I reached out for financial support, but my plea was met with rejection. For a while, I even become homeless. 

The hardest part was the feeling of utter powerlessness. I had always been a goal-setter, driven by a relentless passion to achieve. How could I ever speak to others about goals again? Why would I even want to? Wasn't I the best ever example of why not to set goals? I looked at myself as an imposter —my words empty and unwanted. My past enthusiasm seemed blustery and shallow, a stark contrast to the reality I was now living.

This crushing despair was, unbeknownst to me at the time, a crucial part of my journey. It stripped away my narrow view of success and failure and opened me to the vast range of inner realities people face. I had to experience this unimaginable pain to truly understand and be more powerful in helping others. 

It was during this abyss of suffering that everything was actually changing. There wasn’t a single moment of revelation, but a gradual shift. Slowly, I began to grow through the darkness- becoming a person of greater depth and wisdom. The experience of being broken down to my core, of feeling unthinkable pain, was exactly what I needed to break through to a broader more encompassing self. It gave me a deep, empathetic understanding of the struggles people face, making me better equipped to help them set meaningful goals and navigate their own difficult paths.

Looking back, I am blown away by the transformation. The very thing I thought would stop me from achieving my goals turned out to be the catalyst for actually achieving them. Life’s magic lies in its ability to use our deepest struggles to propel us to our greatest triumphs.

I learnt the hard way that sometimes the worst imaginable experience is the gateway to a far better life. I learnt to trust in the process, even when it seems unbearable. The many years of pain and confusion I endured has become my greatest gift, a change in my heart and life.

Thank you for reading. 

New! Comments

Have your say about what you've just read! Leave a comment in the box below

Recent Articles

  1. Plan for 2025 Success: 12 WiseGoals' Essential Goal Setting Worksheets

    Sep 29, 24 06:34 AM

    Selection of WiseGoals Goal Planning Worksheets
    Plan your path to success with WiseGoals' free 2025 goal setting worksheets. Structure your dreams, prioritize actions, and stay motivated

    Read More

  2. Unlock Your Potential with Coaching & Positive Psychology | WiseGoals

    Sep 21, 24 09:27 AM

    WiseGoals empowers leaders, students, and athletes to unlock their potential through evidence-based coaching psychology, focusing on both success and happiness

    Read More

  3. Wellbeing Coaching for Young Adults | Achieve Balance & Success Today

    Sep 16, 24 11:04 AM

    A serene, welcoming image of a forest and a lake that evokes calm and balance
    Looking for expert wellbeing support? Our certified coaches help young adults manage stress, stay motivated, and thrive in university life. Free first session!

    Read More

  4. Wise Goals Health and Wellbeing Coaching Consultation

    Sep 16, 24 10:38 AM

    Emerson - once you make a decision the universe conspires to make it happen quote
    Take control of your wellbeing journey. Our certified coaches offer tailored advice in health, mindset, and wellbeing. Book your consultation for lasting change

    Read More

  5. Healing a Traumatic Childhood: Mental Health Goals for a Bright Future

    Aug 15, 24 08:19 AM

    Emerson - The sky is the daily bread of the eyes quote
    Find out how focusing on self-compassion, optimism, and meaning can counteract the effects of a difficult childhood and lead to lasting mental well-being.

    Read More