I’m a firm believer that therapy is something that literally everyone on planet earth could benefit from. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a good place or you don’t think you have “problems” that warrant talking to a professional — having an impartial third party as a sounding board is never a bad thing. If you go to therapy, you’ll know this well. But is it working? Here’s how you know it’s making you a better person.
1. You’re Handling Stress Like a Pro.
Remember the days when stress felt like a heavyweight champion knocking you out? Well, if therapy’s doing its thing, you’ll notice you’re handling stress with ease. It’s not that life’s less stressful, but you’re just rolling with the punches way better. You find yourself taking deep breaths instead of freaking out, and those mountains of worries start looking more like manageable molehills. You’re becoming that cool, collected person who can face stress head-on without losing your cool.
2. Your Sleep Game is Stronger Than Ever.
If you’re sleeping better than a koala lately, that’s a big high-five to therapy. Gone are the nights of staring at the ceiling, replaying every awkward thing you ever said. Now, when your head hits the pillow, you’re more likely to drift off into dreamland. It’s like your brain got the memo to chill out at bedtime, giving you those sweet, sweet zzz’s. Better sleep? That’s a sign you’re getting your mind in a good place.
3. Your Relationships Are Getting a Glow-Up.
Look at you, turning into a relationship wizard! Therapy’s probably working if you find yourself having smoother, healthier relationships. You’re not just avoiding those drama-filled arguments, but actually understanding where others are coming from. It’s like you’ve unlocked a new level of relationship skills, where you’re listening more, snapping less, and just being an all-around awesome person to be around. (If you’re in a good place for love but need some help finding someone on your level, our sister site, Sweetn, is for you. They have incredible tips, tricks, and advice on revolutionizing your dating life. Check them out here.)
4. You’re Rocking the Self-Love Vibe.
One of the coolest signs therapy is working is when you start liking yourself more. It’s like you’re finally seeing yourself as the main character in your life, not just a sidekick. You’re giving yourself props for the small wins and not beating yourself up for every little mistake. This newfound self-love isn’t about being narcissistic; it’s about recognizing your own worth and giving yourself a pat on the back.
5. Goodbye, Old Triggers. Hello, Calm.
Those old triggers that used to set you off? They’re losing their power. You’re noticing that things that once sent you into a spiral of anxiety or sadness are just… not that big of a deal anymore. It’s like therapy has given you this awesome shield, and now those triggers just bounce right off. You’re becoming this zen master who can face old triggers with a new sense of calm and perspective.
6. You’re Becoming a Decision-Making Expert.
Decisions used to feel like a game of pin the tail on the donkey, right? Blindfolded and dizzy. But now, after some solid therapy sessions, you’re more like a decision-making ninja. You’re weighing options, thinking things through, and making choices that feel right. No more endless second-guessing or calling up five friends for their opinions. You’re trusting your gut, making decisions with confidence, and it feels pretty darn good.
7. Hello, Productivity and Focus.
Welcome to the new, improved, super-focused you. Therapy is working wonders if your productivity is on the rise. Tasks that used to feel like wading through mud are now getting knocked out like dominoes. You’re finding it easier to concentrate, stay on task, and get stuff done. It’s not about turning into a work robot; it’s about clearing away the mental clutter that used to hold you back. Look at you, ticking off that to-do list like a boss.
8. Your Inner Critic is Taking a Chill Pill.
That inner critic that used to have a megaphone in your head? It’s starting to sound more like a whisper. Therapy is helping you turn down the volume on self-criticism and turn up the self-compassion. You’re not beating yourself up over every little thing anymore. Instead, you’re learning to be kind to yourself, recognizing that everyone’s a work in progress, including you. This kinder, gentler inner dialogue is a big win for team ‘You’.
9. You’re Laughing More, Worrying Less.
If you’re laughing more these days, like really laughing, not just polite chuckles, that’s therapy gold. You’re finding joy in little things, cracking up over silly jokes, and just feeling lighter overall. The worries that used to play on a loop in your mind are getting quieter. You’re not ignoring life’s challenges, but you’re not letting them steal your joy either. Laughter is like a barometer of mental health, and you, my friend, are acing it.
10. You’re Embracing Change.
Remember how change used to feel like an uninvited guest crashing your party? Well, now you’re greeting change like an old friend. Therapy has helped you see change not as a threat, but as an opportunity for growth. You’re adapting to new situations with a cool head and a steady heart. It’s not that change has become any less challenging, but you’re handling it with a grace and agility that’s pretty impressive. This newfound flexibility is a sure sign you’re evolving.
11. You’re Nailing the Work-Life Balance.
Balancing work and personal life used to be like juggling flaming torches. But look at you now, getting it just right. Therapy has helped you set boundaries, prioritize what’s important, and find time for yourself. You’re not constantly on the work grind, nor are you neglecting your responsibilities. It’s about finding that sweet spot where your job, hobbies, and relaxation coexist in harmony. This balance is a key indicator that you’re taking your mental health seriously.
12. Your Friends Notice the New You.
When friends and family start commenting on how ‘different’ you seem, in a good way, that’s therapy paying off. They notice you’re more present, engaged, and just generally happier. It’s like they’re getting to know a whole new version of you – one who’s more open, grounded, and fun to be around. These changes in your relationships are tangible proof that your inner work is transforming your outer world.
13. You’re Setting Healthy Boundaries.
Setting healthy boundaries is like building a great fence around your awesome garden – it keeps the good stuff in and the not-so-good stuff out. Therapy has equipped you with the tools to establish what’s okay and what’s not in your relationships and life in general. You’re saying ‘no’ when you need to and ‘yes’ when you want to. These boundaries are not about keeping people out; they’re about protecting your well-being and respecting your limits.
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