Hey there. At some point, you have to take action and move forward, even when you're still processing what you've been through and how you feel. It’s not easy, but staying stuck isn’t a solution either. This is something I’ve come to understand through my own experiences and from conversations I’ve had with others, particularly men, about mental and emotional health.
A recurring theme in these discussions is how many of us “especially from my generation and earlier” weren’t taught how to acknowledge, process, and move forward with our emotions. The common approach was to “just push it down” and move on. For a while, that strategy might seem to work, but eventually, it catches up with you. That unprocessed weight manifests in ways that can no longer be ignored.
On the flip side, I’ve noticed another pattern: using a so-called “healing journey” as an excuse to stay in the same place. This often involves looking like you’re doing the work, unpacking emotions, and processing past experiences. But in reality, it can become a way to justify simmering in self-pity, playing the victim, and avoiding progress.
Now, I’m not here to judge or tell anyone which camp they fall into, whether they’re genuinely sorting through their stuff or just playing the part. But I do believe that, deep down, each of us knows where we are on that spectrum. Honesty with ourselves is a crucial step. Without it, real progress is impossible.
Mental and emotional health is incredibly important because it allows us to know ourselves on a deeper level. It’s not just about identifying what we’ve been through, but understanding how it has shaped us and how we can navigate life with that knowledge. It’s a tool, an instrument that can guide us through life’s complexities.
But like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how it’s used. If we approach mental health with the intention of truly understanding ourselves and making the necessary changes, it becomes a powerful force for growth. If, however, we use it as a shield to avoid responsibility or action, it keeps us stagnant.
The real work is in balancing acknowledgment and action. It’s okay to sit with your feelings and process them, but it’s equally important to take steps forward, even if they’re small. This balance is what leads to meaningful growth and lasting change.
So, where are you right now? Are you taking action or staying stuck? Are you using your mental health journey as a tool for growth or a reason to stand still? The answers to these questions are deeply personal, but they’re worth exploring.
If you’re ready to take action and start building momentum in your life, I’d like to invite you to join The YLF Experience. This program provides guidance and structure to help you take meaningful steps toward your goals, while also creating space to understand yourself better.