I came across a post recently that stopped me in my tracks, about how easily we misread people. It reminded me of just how quick we are to form lasting impressions… without truly knowing what someone might be living through. There are traits I recognise in myself, traits that, from the outside, could be confusing, contradictory, or even off-putting: Do any resonate with you?

Growing up, like many boys of my age, I was desperate to belong, and easily got caught up with the popular guys at school. My teenage years were a real struggle.... 

In a society that incessantly pressures us to fit into tidy boxes of conformity, daring to celebrate our unique quirks becomes a revolutionary act. Our eccentricities and imperfections are not defects; they are the colourful threads interwoven to create the rich tapestry of our lives. Imagine your personality as an extraordinary masterpiece painted in bold, authentic hues that defy uniformity. By honouring every aspect of who you are, even those parts once dismissed as flaws, you spark a resilient spirit that not only liberates you but also lights the way for others to live authentically. Each unapologetic step toward self-acceptance adds an irreplaceable brushstroke to a canvas uniquely yours, transforming everyday existence into a work of art.

Welcome, everyone. Today, I want to explore two powerful forces that shape our mental health and ask, “ are they mutually exclusive? ” I believe the answer is a resounding “ no. ”

Recently, I had the opportunity to give a short talk during a “time to Talk” session at work. It was a wonderful experience, and I wanted to share that conversation here with you.

Despite progress, societal acceptance remains a steep uphill journey—In today's fast-paced world, where individualism and conformity often clash, understanding and accepting the differences in others' mental health, wellbeing, life choices, or neurodiversity can be a difficult and challenging for some people.

Before I start, I want you to know, these are just my thoughts and observations, and not to be taken as a great study. I would love to hear your thoughts and views on this.

PART II Part I can be found here Dry January - The Transformative Benefits of Reducing Alcohol - My Journey Following up on my previous blog about the transformative benefits of reducing alcohol, I want to delve into an often-overlooked aspect of this journey: the stigma associated with having an alcohol or drug problem, and also the stigma attached to being teetotal or opting for low alcohol intake. These societal pressures can make recovery and sobriety challenging, but it's time we address them head-on. I have faced this struggle myself, enduring everything from 'friendly' jibes to outright judgement from people who seem to think there must be something wrong with me for admitting that alcohol had control over my life. It can be disheartening when people don’t know how to respond when you say, "I don’t drink anymore!" Some might react with awkward silence, while others feel compelled to crack a joke or belittle you, possibly out of their own insecurities or fears.

PART I Part II can be found here Breaking the Stigma: Navigating Alcohol and Drug Recovery, and Embracing Teetotalism  Happy New Year all! So, the Christmas and New Year celebrations are over for another year, and many of you are looking at New Year’s resolutions. One of them might be Dry January!