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Writer's pictureDevyn Penney

#214. starting therapy, envisioning the future & feeling valued




Age: 25 

Relationship Status: In a long-term relationship 

Occupation: Registered nurse 

Income: $130,000 

Astrological Sign: Virgo sun, Libra rising, Aries moon 

 

What is the most important part of your daily routine? 

Making my daily matcha/coffee when I wake up.

 

What is your current happiness most dependent on? 

My happiness used to depend on whether my day went smoothly and was without conflict. Recently, however, I’ve found that practicing gratitude in my daily life has become more important. If I can identify something I’m grateful for each day, it really helps me adopt a more positive, 'glass half full' perspective. 

 

What do you wish you were less reliant on? 

I wish I were less reliant on myself. I often try to shoulder not only my own problems but also those of others. I’m working on learning to ask for help when I need it. 

 

When do you question yourself? 

Quite often. I question whether I’m doing what I need to live the life I envision for the future. Should I be saving more to buy a house sooner, or should I focus on traveling the world? Am my boyfriend and I taking too long to settle down and start a family? Am I taking care of myself physically and mentally to be my best self? 

 

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

Starting therapy. Also being around people who I value and who value me. 

 

What is something you have forgiven yourself for? 

I am my own worst critic, and I often push myself to improve to the point where it can harm me emotionally and mentally. I realize that I haven’t given myself enough grace for the trauma I experienced growing up. I’m working on shifting that mindset and learning to forgive myself for the way I’ve treated myself in the past. 

 

What is something you have forgiven someone else for? 

I’ve forgiven my boyfriend for a lot, particularly when it comes to communication. I’ve learned that in any relationship, there will be misunderstandings and disappointments because no one is perfect. We’ve both been focusing on improving how we communicate and working on being better partners for each other. This process of forgiveness has really helped strengthen our bond and understanding. 

 

How do you ground/center yourself? 

Journaling and being around nature - taking a short walk outside, going on a hike, laying out in the grass, camping.

 

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

 Attending nursing school, which was a nine-hour drive from home, was challenging. I felt that distance was necessary for my growth and independence from my parents, but it wasn’t easy. During that time, I leaned heavily on my boyfriend. Even though we were in a long-distance relationship, he did his best to support and encourage me. I’m so grateful for his patience, humor, and unconditional love. 

 

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

Yes, when I feel loved and appreciated, well-rested, connected to nature and well-fed. 

 

What is something you fundamentally disagree with? 

That success is solely defined by external achievements, such as wealth or status. I believe that true success is more about personal fulfillment, meaningful relationships, and contributing positively to the lives of others. Focusing only on external markers can lead to a lack of fulfillment and an endless pursuit of more rather than appreciating the journey and the impact we have on those around us 

 

What is something you know for sure? 

I know for sure that we really don’t know much at all. Life is so unpredictable, and no matter how much we think we have figured out, there are always new things to learn. It keeps me humble and open to new ideas, which I think is a good way to go through life 

 

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

  1. Respect - I need to feel respected and respect my partner in return.

  2. Trust - I want someone I can trust enough to show my imperfections and still feel loved despite them. I also believe that your word is your honor, so it’s important to me to be able to trust my partner’s word. 

  3. Humor—Life can be tough, so I really value having someone who can see the brighter side of things, laugh at themselves, and make me laugh, even in challenging times. 


When do you feel most comfortable in your own skin? 

Being in an environment where I feel safe and valued, when I’m surrounded by people I trust and who accept me for who I am. In those moments, whether I'm just hanging out with friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, I can be my authentic self without any pressure to put on a façade. Engaging in activities I love, like traveling and hiking, also boosts my confidence and helps me embrace who I am. 

 

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

I’ve definitely been in awe of my mom and everything she went through to raise me. She was only 21 when I was born, and not only did she have to navigate motherhood at such a young age, but she also left her home country and support system to be with my dad, who was working in another country at the time. Her strength and sacrifice really inspire me and make me appreciate all the challenges she faced to create a better life for us. 

 

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

The best material gift I’ve ever received was from my boyfriend. He’s a big gift-giver and always puts a lot of thought into his presents. The standout gift was a Fujifilm camera he got me for my birthday. I had been traveling a lot and kept mentioning how nice it would be to capture memories in a way other than with my iPhone. It was such a thoughtful surprise and truly shows how well he understands my love for adventure and preserving special moments. 

 

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

I wish I said ‘yes’ more to hanging out with my girlfriends during college. It all felt like it flew by, especially since a part of it was during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. I was so focused on my studies and the challenges of that time that I missed out on those important moments of connection and fun. 

 

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

One thing I will always say no to in the future is hard drugs. I know it’s pretty common for some people, but as a nurse, I've seen the toll drugs can take on someone's health and relationships. I’d much rather not risk that just for a bit of fleeting fun. For me, it’s important to prioritize my well-being and stick to my values so I can keep living a positive and fulfilling life. 

 

What do you believe is your most attractive quality? 

I believe my most attractive qualities are my empathy and loyalty. I genuinely care about the feelings and experiences of others, which helps me connect deeply with people. Plus, I’m fiercely loyal to my friends and loved ones, always there to support them no matter what. 


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

When I grow up, I want to be someone that little me would be proud of and would want to be around. 

 

BONUS: Tell me something good. 

I was skeptical about starting therapy mainly because I wasn’t sure if my therapist and I would be a good match (and I was scared of being vulnerable to a random person). But I had my 6th session, and I feel like she is the right one for me, so I’m happy that it’s working out.

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