HOW ARE YOU DOING?

How are you doing? No, really, how are you doing?

Most people will have two completely different answers to the questions highlighted above. Now I won't lie part of that has to do with social convention - somewhere along the line, it gets communicated that when people ask us how we are, they are not looking for us to unload our innermost feelings… unless they are positive, that is.

That being said, there is another side to this story. The majority of us don't know how we are doing… When we the last time you really checked in on yourself? What is going on in there? Our response to this questions has become so automated that, more often than not, it is what we are also telling ourselves. Either that or we are so uncomfortable with that's really going on - admitting that, even to ourselves, would be a rebellious act.

Now more than ever, it is vital that we check in on those around us, metaphorically, of course, but also that we check in with ourselves. Be honest about how we are doing with others but also with ourselves. It’s only when we know how we are doing that we can begin to make changes and improve our situation. How you do that is specific to who you are and what is going on for you. This first step, however, is universal.

Remember: It is impossible to fill anyone else’s cup if yours is already empty. Take care of yourself first - it benefits everyone.