As someone who has struggled with depression since I was twelve years old, the changes I am seeing and feeling are huge.

Ten years ago, I changed my diet and radically improved my mental health as a result. Turns out inflammation can manifest as depression, and I was probably the poster child for that. Eating foods that are not processed and that are low inflammatory foods made a huge improvement in how I felt day to day.

Still, I struggled with my mental state. I never consciously chose to be happy instead of down and depressed; especially not when the depression was the easier, more natural path (that’s sad…) to take.

Now, in the face of events and situations that would have had me very down, I am choosing not to participate in going to the dark side. I could certainly go there, but I am claiming my power to choose my mental attitude. Have I been perfect in this? No, but I have pulled myself back to the light every time.

The result is I am accomplishing more and doing more in my two businesses with less effort. I am enjoying myself more in both, and one of them was driving me crazy!

I am back to writing and creating consistently which feels amazing and empowering. I am better able to focus on the task at hand as well.

Checking things off my list, and I still have a ways to go. I need stronger commitment to OATS for structure during my weeks. My awareness has shifted, and I’m enjoying my new reality.

An added benefit is that my husband has been more positive in the face of personal challenges because I’m that person now too. It’s contagious! Huge stuff going on!