How I did it: After uncountable tumultuous trials with my mother, I finally decided at the age of 23, that I wasn't going to live under her thumb for the rest of my life. It didn't make me happy, it wasn't helping me, and I needed to be rid of it. So I finally grew a backbone, with the tremendous help of my younger brother, Dad, and my loving boyfriend, as well as my bestie. I stood up to her, and by doing so, I learned to stand up to everyone else. I learned to be happy with my choices, and above all else, make them with a clear, level head.

For the first time in my life, I stood up for myself, and even though it's not the end of this goal, I feel good about it, and I'm ready to move on.

Lessons & tips: Start by really looking into the situation you're in. And if you're unhappy in it, change something. Pick back up a hobby that really used to make you happy. Exercise. Even just a walk around the block after dinner, it gets you moving. And once you start doing what makes you happy, you realize, that's all you have to do to live life to the fullest.

Resources: Trustworthy and wonderful friends and family with endless hours of talking, and a little fabric, needle and thread.

Feb 26, 12:24PM PST | 1 comment | 10 cheers