I used to go to therapy til it stopped working, but in the beginning, it was essential so I could understand my eating disorder, OCD, anxiety, depression, and suicidal cycles.

I learned I have a LOT of rage and need a way to get that out so I don't internalize it (self-harm) like I used to.

I'm a kickboxer and blacksmith, and both of these allow me to process emotions in a healthy, constructive way.

I also base jump every year on my birthday to confront my biggest fears lol.

More practically, I learned how to work with my brain. I have ADHD and I have a vata-type cognitive style (if we're applying Ayurveda to psychology).

To avoid burnout, I adjust the way I work and don't apologize for my differences.

While most people say to pick one thing and stick with it, that doesn't work for me. I juggle lots of things and rotate based on my interests.

(For ADHDers, the acronym INCUP is really useful for a near-infinite level of motivation.)

I call it "following my dopamine." I notice when I do too many things I have zero interest in (or things I have outright contempt for), I start hating life. We all have stuff to do we don't like doing, but I find ways to do these in between things I love.

I also finally accepted that balance in the traditional way of thinking simply doesn't exist for me. I have seasons when I push really hard and seasons when I do much less. It's macroscopic balance, not daily balance.

Ultimately, I say "screw it" to conformity because I'm not a freelancer to "fit in" and do the socially acceptable thing.