Earlier this week- Monday morning, to be exact- I came to a pivotal realization. I’ve been struggling with how others treat me, and I’ve allowed myself to be consumed emotionally by situations that are completely out of my control.

I woke up Monday morning at 3:45 a.m. and was unable to fall back to sleep due to crippling stress and what ultimately turned into a 2 hour panic attack. Over something that I cannot control.

Here’s the realization I came to: There will always be situations in life that I cannot control, and there will be times where I’ll be wronged and there’s nothing I can do about that. But I can ALWAYS control how I let those things affect me.

This week, I’ve focused on putting my happiness first. On enjoying the little things in each day. And I already feel lifted somewhat from the darkness that was clouding my happiness.

You are the master of your destiny. You are in control of your happiness. And that, is truly empowering.