I have noticed a lot of advice floating around in books, on the internet, and on television that implies the way to success is to be aggressive and to be “in front of the pack”. I think there is something wrong with this thinking. I believe getting behind someone who has already spent some time on the trail you are hiking is more beneficial to achieving a successful outcome. They can be your trail guide – warning you about the rocks and tree stumps that might trip you up. They can make sure that path is well marked to keep you from getting lost in the wilderness. A good trail guide will challenge you to higher achievements, and will also encourage you when the going gets tough. They know what is realistic, and possible because they have been there before.

In the grand scheme of things, I have not been in depression treatment for very long. Through real life experiences, and the internet I have meet people who have been successfully managing their mental health issue/mental illness for many years. Those people inspire me. They are an example of how good life can be in spite of having a mental health issue/mental illness. They also serve as my trail guides. When they share stories about their struggles, detours, set backs, and successes it creates a map for me to follow.

At the same time these people are marking the trail for me, they provide me with encouragement when I am struggling. It is the best kind of encouragement because they have been where I have been, felt what I have felt, and can draw from their own experiences. The fact that they have blazed the trail I am on reminds me that I am not alone, even when I feel like I am. The people I follow inspire, and motivate me. They push me to become a stronger, wiser, and more balanced person.

I think it is important that we surround ourselves with quality people. People with wisdom because of their life experiences. Honorable people who have strong character. They need to be people who can be objective, and share difficult truths with love, and compassion. They need to be willing to tell us to “get it in gear” when we need it. Even grown-ups need someone to be stern with them now and again. In order for us to keep growing, we need someone who has been where we are – challenging us to achieve  new goals.

When the winds of life are pushing us in all directions many of us have the habit of trying to go it alone. We rarely allow people to provide a wind break for us. We should though. Allowing someone the privilege of helping us face our adversity can be an enriching experience for everyone involved.

Remember, while you are following those who motivate you, someone could be following you.