Has anyone ever been truly able to change their outlook on life? I have undergone some triggering events this year, and I have decided to change my outlook on my life. I want to be more honest, more simple, and more humble. In my logical mind I know that I can make it a habit, but my emotional mind often plays tricks and I just worry I will never change.
Have you?
I think so. It is a life long process. I recommend looking at James clear's website and book. Chapter four is where it starts to delve into strategy and is really interesting. Also check out the Hidden Brain series. Good on you for recognizing and taking this on!
Thank you! I will definitely check out that website and book!
I love how you pointed out exactly the person you want to become, since I find that to be an achievement in itself. I empathize with your intention, since I feel in a similar position. On previous occasions, I have done the following in order to get out of my mind and into the habits:- Starting small (Ex. if I want to do "x", I start with "1/2 x" and increase little by little)
- Journaling/Tracking progress (It can be easy to forget the good and remember the bad or vice versa, and looking back to appreciate it what we have been able to handle can be a great mood booster). Tracking my mood, exercise routine and sleep hygiene, together with journaling about gratitude made my days lighter and more stable. I am currently trying to get back to those old habits. I don't even know why I stopped 😩
- Creating a system (Writing down steps, examples, ways, of what we are truly aiming. For example, you could illustrate some actions that you would consider as you flourishing into a more honest, simple and humble person).
Lastly, I would like to point out that I believe my mind is very emotionally regulated as well so not taking it as personal or serious has allowed me to see life from another perspective. I tend to get very dark, self-destructive thoughts so 'observing' these, instead of judging, or even worse, 'trusting' them, has also played a key role to the fact I am still alive today. Best wishes!
Thanks so much for your input, I value your opinions and advice 
Honesty and trust. A turning point for me came when my wife and I had a fight. She pointed out some of my ways were hurting our marriage. I build up walls and don't let anyone in. Then when people let me down or my expectations aren't met I get upset. When I'm upset, I become stand-offish, negative and I build more walls, (see a pattern here?). Not being honest with her about my needs and feelings was hurting us both. Not being vulnerable with her unintentionally came off as a lack of trust. Painfully I realized I had to change my approach, my outlook. And it all started with honesty and trust. Honestly communicating with others my needs and boundaries. People can't read my mind after all. Honesty with myself about my feelings. Honesty with myself about reasonable expectations. Trusting that others aren't always out to get me. Trusting my wife by being vulnerable. Trusting myself, that I can venture outside my comfort zones now and then and still survive.
I don't know how much of this applies to you, but it's what I used to lay the foundation of a new outlook on life. It's still a struggle. I'm not perfect. But without this groundwork, I couldn't imagine making the changes I have made in the last 2-3 years. Hope some of it was useful and if not, hope you find some answers!
Thank you for sharing that with me, and thank you for your support!
Struggling with different things.
Tonight is a little bit different 
On a different medication now 
Trying something different
How has your depression/ anxiety affected your children?
