My Brain feels like the enemy
Life is a journey of constant evolution—mentally, physically, and emotionally. As we navigate through new experiences, our minds become filled with thoughts, sometimes more than we know how to manage. We find ourselves breaking old cycles we once relied on, accepting what has left us, and learning to stand firmly on our own two feet. But as we grow and change, so do the challenges we face within our own minds.
I often catch myself thinking, "How is this blob in my head controlling every aspect of my life?" It’s a strange realization that this small, intricate organ dictates how we feel, think, and react to the world around us. From long days and nights filled with anxiety, to the moments when I struggle to find the motivation to pursue my passions, I feel like I'm constantly walking a tightrope. On one side is the chaos of manic episodes, and on the other, the heavy darkness of depression. In these moments, my brain feels like my enemy—a force that I’m battling against rather than working with.
But here's the real question: How do we make friends with our brains?
At what point do we take back our power and stop letting our brains run the show that is our life? This is something I'm still discovering, learning more each day about what helps my brain thrive and what makes it shut down. It’s a delicate balance between understanding the mind’s complexities and not letting it control every aspect of our existence.
We, as humans, endure a lot. We are the holders of every single interaction, moment, and memory of our existence. These experiences shape us, but they also weigh heavily on our minds. The brain stores everything—the good, the bad, and the in-between—and sometimes, it feels like it’s all too much. The memories, emotions, and thoughts can become overwhelming, leaving us feeling lost in the very space that should be our sanctuary.
So how do we navigate this? How do we create a harmonious relationship with our minds?
First, it starts with acceptance. Accepting that our brains are complex and that they won’t always work the way we want them to. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay. The key is to recognize that our minds are doing the best they can with the information and experiences they have. Instead of fighting against our thoughts, we can start by acknowledging them—observing them without judgment.
Next, it’s about understanding our triggers. What makes our brains thrive? What causes them to spiral? For me, I’ve found that certain activities, like writing, help calm my mind and provide a sense of clarity. On the other hand, overstimulation—whether from social media, stress, or lack of sleep—can push me closer to that tightrope I’m trying to avoid. By identifying these triggers, we can begin to create an environment that supports our mental well-being.
And then, there’s the importance of self-compassion. We’re often our own harshest critics, especially when it comes to our mental health. But we need to remember that our brains are just trying to protect us, even when it feels like they’re doing the opposite. Treating ourselves with kindness, allowing ourselves to feel what we need to feel without shame, is crucial in building a positive relationship with our minds.
Finally, we need to take action. It’s not enough to just understand our minds; we have to actively work towards better mental health. This might mean seeking therapy, practicing mindfulness, setting boundaries, or even just taking a break when we need it. It’s about taking small, intentional steps every day to nurture our mental well-being.
As I continue on this journey of self-discovery, I’m learning that making friends with my brain is not about control—it’s about partnership. It’s about working together with my mind, understanding its needs and limitations, and finding a balance that allows me to live fully. The more I explore this relationship with my mind, the more I realize that it's about finding peace with the very thing that shapes our reality.
We may not always have control over our thoughts, but we can choose how we respond to them. In doing so, we start to reclaim our lives, one day at a time. We’re all a work in progress, and that’s okay. The journey might be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to grow, evolve, and ultimately, make peace with ourselves.