Did You Give Up?

In our upcoming episode of "Healed for the Holidays: A Mental Health Rewind," I sit down with Ashton "StonedVapor" Davy, a producer and frequent collaborator on the show. This episode, originally an impromptu discussion in the early days of the podcast, unfolds after reflecting on the state of current events, particularly another mass shooting. It kicks off with a pivotal question: "What's happening in the world today?" This sparks a conversation about the vital importance of therapy and having someone to talk to.

Ashton and I share our personal experiences with therapy, emphasizing how being open to it creates a safe space to discuss matters we often keep locked away. The episode delves into the negative mindsets bred in inner-cities and underserved areas, living in survival mode, and the psychological effects of a belief that things can't and won't change. We explore the connection between high crime rates, self-hate, and a sense of having nothing to lose.

One of the episode's crucial questions arises: "Why do you feel as if your life is not valuable?" We ponder whether it's a lack of maturity, emotional development, or a combination of factors. This leads to discussions on taking accountability for our lives, creating change in our personal circumstances, and the responsibility for our own healing.

The episode reaches its pinnacle by posing the fundamental question: "What do you want, and are you getting it from the life you're currently living?" It prompts deep soul-searching and self-reflection, essential for overcoming the stagnation life can sometimes bring. We explore the challenges of moving differently, setting boundaries, and changing environments to lead a more fulfilling life.

The underlying theme questions whether, along the way, we've given up on creating the life we envision. Are we settling for a life that leaves us miserable? The episode challenges listeners to examine their beliefs and question why they may not believe they can live out the vision buried deep within.

As the host of "Thinker vs Speaker" and a firm believer in the power of self-reflection, I chose this episode for our December series because it brings the idea of self-reflection to the forefront. Having spent many years looking outward for answers to the challenges in my life, I only found solutions when I turned inward. Asking myself tough questions and addressing the root causes allowed me to identify and overcome the obstacles holding me back.

While I'm a work in progress, I've personally experienced the transformative benefits of a change in perspective. I understand the feeling of being stagnant, trapped by surroundings and circumstances. However, this episode is a reminder that it doesn't have to be that way forever. It poses questions that initiate the initial gears of self-reflection, making it a crucial addition to our "Healed for the Holidays" series.