There in itself is where I found my motivation to care about my health and my future. Because his future and wellbeing depend on it.
In the past, my struggles with anorexia, bulimia, laxative abuse, depression and anxiety kept me stuck in a life full of false happiness and safety.
But through treatment, my support system and most importantly, my son, I’ve learned that I deserve more out of life.
My son has brought a different kind of purpose and meaning to what life, happiness, pride, confidence and satisfaction looks like. Living our best life through his eyes and how proud I am to be his mama give me strength to get out of bed in the morning.
Everyone struggling with mental illness deserves to find that one motivator that supersedes the importance of the eating disorder voice. The motivator that drowns out the sad, hopeless feelings of depression and the spinning of anxiety.
For me, my baby boy has given me purpose.
I have never had the urge to fight so hard against the demons that controlled me for so many years.
So warriors, what gives you purpose? What motivates you to stay strong on the path of recovery?
If you don’t know, work hard to discover that. And if you do know, keep that in the forefront of your mind. Carry around pictures that represent that purpose and motivation.
As John F. Kennedy once said,
Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction. – John F. Kennedy
