(GGB reaches UP and grabs Chrome and gives him a hearty man hug complete with slaps on the back)
Chrome, I know all about that gravity well that seems to suck the ball back to the same place every time you think you've finally gotten it free. I too am having a ton of trouble trying to figure out who I am, who I am not, or who I want to be. It is confusing stuff for our "simple" man-minds. This part of Corri's workshop is stealing a lot of brain cycles.
Here's what has helped me this time around: Sharing with MrsGGB how I am feeling (thanks Corri), including (actually, especially) my personal disappointments. It shows her I too am human, gives her a heads up that I'm falling back into the gravity well and gives her an opportunity to lend a hand pulling me out if she wants to (or can figure out how to). By telling her the bad stuff as well as the good, you build her trust in you. Trust doesn't require you to be infallible, but rather it requires you to be honest with her regarding your feelings even (especially) when you are afraid to be.
BTW, it really sounds like you are doing fine, even though you occasionally hit some roadblocks.
So, no, the advice isn't quite buck up. It is more OPEN UP. Break down the walls even when you feel like building them.
edited to add: also, the question about whether you exercise or not is valid. I started working out 18 months ago, fell off the wagon last summer, and then picked it back up around last Christmas. I've since managed to keep up a 2-3 days per week exercise schedule. The result is I feel much better about myself, plus I look better, feel more confident, and I'm finding it easier to concentrate as well. It took a good solid 6 months of forcing myself to get out to the gym before it got to the point where I miss it if I don't go. I recommend it if you aren't already getting exercise.
