Embracing Boundaries and Personal Growth: My Journey of Self-Discovery

This past weekend was a real eye-opener for me. For a long time, I would always ask, "Why me?" whenever life threw challenges my way. I often found myself complaining and feeling misunderstood about the cards I was dealt. But now, I couldn't be more grateful for those very experiences.

I've had my share of traumas, some of which were a result of my own actions. But let me tell you, it feels incredibly empowering to finally defend my boundaries. Setting boundaries has been a struggle for me, likely due to growing up in a family where boundaries were virtually non-existent. However, I've come to realize that people may not always understand my boundaries, and some might even view it as burning bridges. That’s their perspective, and it’s okay.

Being open to having our perspectives challenged is essential. It forces us to take an inventory of our lives and make adjustments when necessary. For me, letting go of my past has involved putting up strict boundaries regarding who I want to keep in my present and future.

For far too long, I felt like I was falling behind in terms of my career and my relationships with family and friends. But it turns out that even though I felt behind, I was actually keeping pace or, in some cases, even ahead. I’ve now come to understand that not everyone will understand my journey. But those who choose to see me for who I am today will be the ones sitting at my table.

I am profoundly grateful for each phase of my life. The challenges, the growth, and the insights have all been invaluable. As I look forward to the future, I do so with a sense of excitement and anticipation.

If you're struggling with boundaries or feeling like you're not where you should be in life, I hope my story inspires you. It’s okay to take your time, to set boundaries, and to let go of those who don't support your journey. Embrace each phase of your life and look forward to the future with optimism.

Embracing Life's Beauty Amidst Change

This past weekend was a beautiful reminder of how wonderful life can be, even in the midst of change. I had the pleasure of spending time with a long-time friend, and it reignited the joy of connecting with others. It was a heartwarming experience that reminded me of the simple yet profound happiness that comes from sharing moments with people we care about.

We started our weekend adventure by heading to the movies to watch Inside Out 2. While the film had more anxiety-inducing moments than I anticipated, the experience was enriched by the lively theater atmosphere. People were clapping, and my friend's children were bustling around, fetching snacks and taking bathroom breaks. It was chaotic but in a way that felt alive and vibrant.

After the movie, we transitioned to some much-needed adult time around a cozy fire table. There’s something magical about the warmth of a fire, the crackling of wood, and the company of a good friend. It was a time to relax, reflect, and simply enjoy the moment. Sitting there, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for being able to come out of my shell and embrace life more fully.

The past year has been challenging, filled with ups and downs, but this weekend was a glimpse into the beauty that life holds. It reminded me that even amidst change and uncertainty, there are moments of joy and connection waiting to be cherished. I realized how grateful I am for everything that has happened—every experience, every challenge—because they have all led me to where I am today.

As much as I might complain sometimes, I am deeply thankful for my job, my family, and the future that lies ahead. Each of these aspects of my life has played a crucial role in shaping who I am. This weekend was a celebration of that gratitude, a moment to pause and appreciate the journey.

So, here’s to embracing life, with all its beauty and challenges. Here’s to cherishing the moments with friends and family, to finding joy in the chaos, and to being grateful for the path we are on. Life is a magnificent adventure, and every experience adds to its richness.

Take a moment to appreciate where you are and the people around you. Life is beautiful, and it's moments like these that remind us of its true essence.

Navigating Life's Storms: Finding Your Way Through Uncertainty

Lately, I've felt like I'm in the eye of a storm, struggling to find peace. There's a persistent external energy that I can't seem to shake off. I don't know if it's the lingering emotions for the man I thought would be my husband and having to completely let go, or the financial crisis stemming from my dad's health issues. Whatever it is, I feel lost and ungrounded, like I'm not where I'm supposed to be.

I want to excel and accomplish everything I dream of, but I don't even know where to begin. So many shifts and changes have happened recently that I don't even know how to feel. It's as if I'm grieving parts of myself that I can no longer carry with me. The defense mechanisms I've built up over the years are finally melting away, and I'm no longer afraid to just be myself, regardless of the consequences.

I wish I were more financially secure so I could take a sabbatical, but I no longer work in China. Now, I feel like a slave to the 9-to-5 grind. I miss the days of working multiple jobs, only clocking in 25 hours a week, and earning more than I do now. There are so many aspects of myself that I miss—when I felt whole. I want to get back to feeling that way.

Living in the United States is challenging. I really don't understand why so many people want to come here. I mean, I get it if you're living in worse conditions, but it truly doesn't get better here. Work-life balance is almost non-existent, and it's hard to make friends or find a job that allows you to be a human being. I'm so frustrated; I just don't know anymore.

Finding Grounding Amidst Chaos

If you resonate with any of this, here are some steps that might help you begin to feel more grounded and regain a sense of control:

Acknowledge Your Feelings: Recognize that it's okay to feel lost, frustrated, and uncertain. These emotions are natural responses to significant life changes and pressures.


Identify the Sources of Stress: Break down the different stressors in your life. Is it primarily the breakup, financial issues, or general dissatisfaction with your job? Identifying the sources can help you prioritize and tackle them one at a time.


Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about what you're going through. Sometimes, just expressing your feelings can provide relief and give you new perspectives.


Set Small, Achievable Goals: When everything feels overwhelming, focus on small, manageable tasks. This could be organizing a part of your living space, setting up a budget, or planning a weekend activity you enjoy.


Practice Self-Care: Make time for activities that nurture your well-being, such as exercise, meditation, reading, or hobbies that bring you joy and relaxation.


Reevaluate Your Career: Reflect on what you enjoyed about your previous work situation. Are there aspects of those jobs that you can incorporate into your current or future work? Consider exploring job opportunities that offer better work-life balance or align more closely with your passions.


Financial Planning: If financial stress is a major concern, speak with a financial advisor. They can help you create a plan to manage your finances better and work towards greater security.


Explore New Opportunities: If you're feeling unfulfilled in your current job, consider exploring new opportunities, whether within your current field or something entirely different. Online courses, networking, and volunteering can be great ways to discover new paths.


Stay Open to Change: Remember that it's okay for your goals and desires to evolve. What mattered to you in the past might not hold the same importance now, and that's perfectly fine. Stay open to new possibilities and be kind to yourself as you navigate these changes.


Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques: Practices like mindfulness meditation, yoga, or simply spending time in nature can help you feel more grounded and present.


Reframe Your Perspective: Try to shift your mindset from feeling trapped to seeing this time as an opportunity for growth. Each challenge you face can teach you something valuable about yourself and what you truly want.


Take it One Day at a Time: Focus on the present moment rather than becoming overwhelmed by the big picture. Taking it one step at a time can make the journey feel less daunting.

Remember, you're not alone in feeling this way. Seeking help is a sign of strength. You have the resilience to get through this difficult period and come out stronger on the other side. Embrace the journey, and trust that you'll find your way through the storm.

Embracing Change: My Journey from Teaching to Clinical Research and Back Again

Sometimes, life takes us on a journey we never could have predicted. For thirteen years, I taught English as a Second Language (ESL) around the world. I thought my teaching career was behind me when I decided to pursue my passion for science. Five years into my clinical research career, however, I find myself at a crossroads once again.

In 2020, I obtained a PARA license in Illinois, which, combined with my Bachelor's degree, qualifies me to be a full-time substitute teacher. As summer approaches, I'm uncertain if I'll secure a teaching role before it ends, but one thing is clear: my days in clinical research are numbered. I am caught in an internal struggle, debating whether to leave this profession and start my own business or return to teaching.

My disillusionment with healthcare has been growing. I've witnessed firsthand the inequalities and the relentless pursuit of the bottom line that can overshadow the true purpose of healthcare. As an employee, these experiences have been disheartening. It's taken me a long time to come to terms with letting go of my dream of being a scientist. Despite this, I am proud of what I have achieved and the experiences I've had along the way.

The idea of change is daunting but also exhilarating. Reflecting on my journey, I realize how important it is to follow one's own path, even when it leads to unexpected places. My hope is that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to find the motivation to pursue their passions, no matter where they may lead.

I am excited about the possibility of returning to teaching and helping shape young minds. At the same time, the thought of starting my own business brings a sense of adventure and new beginnings. Life is a journey filled with twists and turns, and while the destination may be uncertain, the experiences and growth along the way are what truly matter.

In closing, I encourage anyone facing a similar crossroads to listen to your heart. Embrace change and trust that each step you take is part of your unique journey. Remember, it's never too late to follow your dreams and find fulfillment in new and unexpected ways.