We need less than we think

For years, I trained my brain to get used to being constantly busy. I was doing my best to stop watching porn. I didn't know what else to do so I'd keep running and running from my own mind.

Nowadays, I get to spend time relaxing on my own without fear of relapse. Yesterday, I got stuck into Bob Mortimer's new book, The Long Shoe, and spent hours laid down on my sofa in my studio flat just enjoying reading on my own.

I laughed out loud on a few occasions and really settled into a nice cosy evening as the cold descended upon Manchester.

I've learned a lot since working with Mari Paulus, my mentor. And one thing I'm beginning to realise more deeply than ever is the value of peace of mind. We are taught by influencers and TV personalities that we need so much. And yet, it is not the external praise or material success which makes us happy. But, the ability to deal effectively with that which lives within our own sphere of control. Our own choices, our own thinking, our own peace of mind. That is what matters. Busyness is not success.

Being able to think and live rationally, living in alignment with your own values is success. When in addiction, we think more than we need and need less than we think.