Most of my life, I’ve not been comfortable in my skin. I’m confident in my abilities. I’m confident in my intelligence. I’m confident in my craft professionally.

If you take me out of my comfort zone, however, I shake in my boots. Yesterday, I had lunch with someone I’ve known for a while. During out lunch, I realized I was comfortable. With him. And with myself.

For me, this was an enlightening aha moment. All of a sudden, the years of hell I’ve survived seem worth it. I can say, finally, I survived and I’m stronger for it.

I find myself looking hopefully forward. This is quite refreshing.