Starting Over

[butterflygrl10]

So...made it through session 1 & 2, then had a bit of a break. Okay, like a month-long break. Lots has happened in that time. One of the things that happened is that my computer died. Just got my new one two days ago, still restoring my backup files from the old one. That means I did not get to check in here in a while. In much bigger news, I ended up quitting my job! Now, I know that may seem like an avoidance behavior, but a lot of thought and discussions with my counselor and trusted friends and family members occurred before making my decision. After a careful analysis of the situation, I realized that my job was a primary source of most of the anxiety I seemed to be having. Notice I didn't say work caused my anxiety, I have n problem with working hard, and in fact, enjoy it. It was specifically that job. I reviewed costs of setting up my own health insurance vs COBRA costs, evaluated how much $ I had saved up vs. how much I would need to get by each month, made some plans as to what I wanted to do with the time that would open up, and realized, I could go for about 6 months or more without a job. It still took me several weeks of consideration, but I finally decided to go for it. So, I've been unemployed for about a month now. I am more relaxed and confident than I have been in forever! I have decided to pursue my teaching certification, and will be starting that mid-July. I am taking a creative writing course to see if I can try my hand at being an author, even if just as a hob by/creative outlet. I have plans to visit my friends in my former home state next month. And, I have decided I am a little bored without SOME kind of work, so I am applying for some part-time jobs, just to have a little extra $ coming in, give me something to keep my time occupied, and have a social outlet where I can meet and interact with people. For the first time in a long time, I do not feel paralyzed, or stuck. Ithink it was a combination of medication and counseling that gave me the clarity to realize this was even an option for me. I do definitely still feel the need to continue with the program, as well as my counseling, and at least for now, the medication. However, once I find a job, I will give myself a copule of weeks to see how I feel - if no anxiety, and depression continues to subside as well, will probably check in with my doctor to discuss reducing my medications. So, anyway, since I haven't been progressing through the program, I have decided to review session 2 again and work on putting it into action a bit more, then move onto to session 3. Excited about the future, and excited about continuing with this program!

[Jackie Chambers]

Sounds Great !!!! Good luck ! I'm new,and in the middle of sesson 2, kind of leary; but doing good. Relaxation tape helps alot.