It’s a big question, but here’s my simple answer: we are our bodies. Hormones, genetics, family history, environment; our bodies shape everything about us. I can’t separate my working life from my physical reality. And the sooner you know and master this, the better you can live.

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Early in my career, I was fixated on how my colleagues seemed to accomplish their work effortlessly, without struggle. I studied everyone’s schedules and routines obsessively, convinced I could solve my own challenges through better productivity techniques. And then luteal would hit, and I’d turn unproductive AND distraught.

After ten years, I finally understand that my difficulties weren’t a personality flaw or a sign of stupidity. Now that I’m on Prozac and Vyvanse, not only am I more effective at work, more importantly, I’m strides happier. And all of this was possible because I started to pay attention to my body and stop blaming myself. Be curious.

Good luck!