Have you ever found yourself in the dark fumbling around to find the light switch? Well, that is me on a daily basis looking for my off switch. It’s difficult for me to take a break.
This is especially true when I become passionate about something. Two months ago I launched Orthorexia Bites to make a change. My passion for this cause erupted overnight.
This blog was intended to be a place to educate others about orthorexia, but I quickly realized there was a greater need. We live in a world full of stereotypes and stigmas, especially in regards to eating disorders in general and mental health in men. I’ve made it my mission to initiate much-needed conversations and help others reclaim their lives by reminding them that their feelings are valid and that they are not alone.
I’ve poured my heart and soul into this blog all while self-publishing my upcoming book Starving for Survival. This on top of my day job and household responsibilities. I love to be busy but last week I found myself on the verge of burnout.
I’m constantly brainstorming ways to confront the stereotypes and stigmas while trying to connect with a larger audience. I wake up every day on a mission to network, connect, and grow the blog. Often times facing rejection, lack of interest, or no response at all. This is not an easy topic for many people to talk about and it certainly isn’t sexy, so growth is a daily grind.
I always want to achieve bigger and better, and I want to do it right now! The pressure I place on myself caught up to me last week. Then, I received a much-needed reminder before I allowed my anxiety and drive for perfection to take control.
I’m still early in my recovery. This blog and the community of folks I’ve met are part of my therapy. Just last week I connected with another guy going through a very similar battle to my own. The connection was instant and a reminder that I am not the only person going through this battle.
I remain a man on a mission, but I’m also a man in recovery, a man with a day job I enjoy, a man with other hobbies and interests, and a man with a husband I want to be present for.
If you’re like me, someone who is in the midst of your own battle but also fighting to help others, then please remember that we can’t change the world overnight. While we want to reach hundreds and thousands of people each day, all it takes is one connection to change someone’s life and make their battle a little easier. In some cases, that someone is you. Please don’t put too much pressure on yourself to the point where it gets in the way of your own recovery.
I’ve discovered self-love and compassion during my recovery. This doesn’t just mean forgiving myself for the past, it also means learning to take a break. I will press on and fight every day to tackle those stereotypes and help others, but I will also remember to take the time to fight for myself.