Alex B.

Photography by Emma Joseph

If you’re reading this, remember to take one day at a time.

In a world full of nonstop commotion, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters. In high school, I fell into the trap of depending on academic and social validation. I let my entire worth revolve around getting straight A’s and being the most social, but none of that provided me with a true sense of meaning. After allowing those superficial things to run my life into the ground, I found myself struggling with anxiety and depression. I was lost and needed to regain a new sense of self.

As I began putting in the work to manage my mental health, I found solace in grounding myself in my three core values: kindness towards myself and others, maintaining balance, and perseverance. These values are unique to my needs, and I found that they ensured I stayed on the right track.

When times get tough, I like to reestablish myself in my values. Kindness towards myself and others reminds me to check in with myself and the people around me. While I am still a competitive person, it is important that I don’t let academic and social pressure guide my decisions. Maintaining balance goes hand in hand with kindness towards myself, especially in the busy college environment. For me, maintaining balance in my life helps me to stay consistent in all aspects of my life without burning myself out. Finding the balance that properly fuels my mental and physical health is challenging, and that’s where perseverance plays a pivotal role. Unfortunately, my struggle with anxiety is not something that can be easily cured, so it’s important to keep trying new techniques and working through difficulties.

“One day at a time” is what my dad says to me when he knows I’m struggling. These core values help me take it “one day at a time” and make managing anxiety just a little bit easier.

So if you’re reading this, know that it’s okay to take things “one day at a time.” It gets better, emotions are temporary, and maintaining your unique core values helps you to come out as a better person.

                        Sincerely,

Alex B., Wake Forest University

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