During middle and high school, there were a lot of problems in my life. My parents’ divorce and subsequent family tensions, untreated anxiety, academic pressure and low self-esteem–many things weren’t ideal.

But one thing that I look back on and appreciate is how I made room to breathe in my life, despite all the external influences that told me not to.

In middle school, instead of being involved in 1000 clubs and activities, I spent most of my free time playing with my sister, on the phone with my best friend N, or writing in my journal.… Read More »