It is really difficult to try to avoid making mistakes while you are depressed. My mom used to say, "You can never do anything right," and I hear that voice all the time, so I continually self-talk and criticize myself because I hear it. It's almost impossible to stop her words from echoing in my head since they have gotten so embedded.

It's a daily struggle to try to push past her remarks, and every small mistake I make feels like a confirmation of them. However, I am aware that I am more than my errors, and I am making an effort to end the detrimental and self-doubting loop.I remind myself that neither my background nor the perceptions of others define who I am.

I'm working on treating myself with more kindness and understanding, the same grace and compassion that I so easily extend to others. It's a gradual process, but every little step ahead makes me feel lighter and more in charge of my own emotions and thoughts. I'm committed to conquering this inner conflict and discovering inner tranquility.