In moments of extremely high stress, I find that meditation helps me stay centered and accept things I cannot change. I realized through this med school process how little I truly love myself and how all of my insecurities have been coming out all at once since I applied to medical school. There have been a lot of hurdles I have had to overcome: 1. Failing the MCAT and needing accommodations 2. Retaking chemistry classes (some even 3 times) 3. Taking an extra year in college to finish my degree 4. Working, Shadowing, Studying for school and mcat all at the same time 5. Applying once and not getting in. Writing that down helps me realize how strong, resilient, determined and dedicated I am to continue to pursue my dreams. In the negative news or the hardships, we discover truths about ourselves and we should use them as constant affirmations. Just because there are limits and closed doors, doesn’t mean we aren’t valuable. It’s nice when others affirm our efforts, but it’s not important. It’s more important that you affirm your efforts and use that to continue your journey. Last night, I doubted myself, my abilities and my worth. Today, I chucked it up to the universe and said this is not my problem anymore. I did my absolute very best. The old me would have frantically registered for the mcat, paid another 3k for an eval, begged for accommodations and stressed and had high anxiety the entire time to get it done in a month. The practicing self-love me said ‘screw it’ I took it, other schools accepted it, I still have a chance, I am meant to be where I need to be. Accepting things as they are and not fighting them will free you, which is self love in practice. How do you get over bad news or disheartening news? Let’s all share because I know I’m not the only one! #selfcare @chloebrotheridge @carrierad #selfcaresummer #selflove #anxiety #anxietysolution #badass #badassery #stress #mentalhealth #medschool #mentalhealthawareness #selfhelp (at New York, New York)
