#294. social work, sobriety & surviving

Age: 29

Relationship Status: Long-term relationship  

Occupation: Full-time student   

Income: disability while full-time in school 

Astrological Sign: Taurus 

What is the most important part of your daily routine? 

Lately, it’s been drinking a ton of water with electrolytes and doing more self-care/skincare. 

What is your current happiness most dependent on?

 That’s a tough one. I would like to say nothing, but I think I depend on my relationship a lot.

What do you wish you were less reliant on?

My dad and boyfriend  for emotional support.

When do you question yourself?

Before making big decisions, I tend to always ask for other people's opinions or advice.  

What is something that has positively impacted how you perceive your self-worth?

Going back to college. It has always been a pipe dream for me. But I decided to go for it a couple of years ago. Also, getting and staying sober. I just celebrated 5 years of sobriety, and I wouldn’t be alive today if I weren’t sober. 

What is something you have forgiven yourself for? 

The things I did while drinking/doing drugs.

What is something you have forgiven someone else for?

I am working on forgiving my mom, who died of an overdose. She left when I was eight and it really messed up my childhood.  

How do you ground/center yourself? 

Honestly, prayer, talking to my sponsor, going to AA meetings, talking to family.

What is one thing that helped you through your most difficult time?

My will to live. I have been through a lot - but I always knew I was capable of living a good life.  

Have you ever felt like the best version of yourself? When?

When I am spiritually fit; when I am taking care of myself mentally and physically. 

What is something you fundamentally disagree with?

Currently, as a social work student, there are a lot of people in my social policy class who disagree with folks relying on public aid/welfare. I wholeheartedly fundamentally disagree with that and think that’s insane. Also, people who are pro-life. 

What is something you know for sure?

That I can get through anything. 

What are three of your non-negotiables in romantic relationships?

1. Kindness  

2. The ability to work through disagreements  

3. Empathy 

When do you feel most comfortable in your own skin?

When I’m at home with my boyfriend and our cats :) 

Have you ever been in awe of something/someone? When?

Watching other women get sober and tell their stories.  

What is the best (physical/material) gift you have ever received?

My boyfriend always thinks of the cutest ideas. He has planned cute getaways for us and recently surprised me with Megan Thee Stallion concert tickets, even though it’s not his jam. He also thinks of the little things. 

What is one thing you wish you had said ‘yes’ to in the past? 

Getting sober in high school and getting my shit together back then. 

What is one thing you will always say ‘no’ to in the future?

Doing drugs again/drinking.

What do you believe is your most attractive quality?

Empathy.   

What/who do you want to be when you grow up? 

A social worker 💕

BONUS: Tell me something good. 

After losing my mom and both sisters, I am the only surviving woman in my family. I never thought I’d make it this far or be happy. I’m grateful to be alive.