# Insights from Two Months in a Psychiatric Ward
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Chapter 1: The Journey Begins
After spending two months in a psychiatric facility in Japan due to a mental breakdown, I discovered valuable lessons about success and my place in society. This extreme measure of voluntarily entering a ward isn't something I'd recommend lightly, but my experience might help you avoid similar paths.
Previously, I dreaded this time of year, burdened by the pressure to succeed and the ensuing disappointment when I fell short. If you've struggled with achieving your goals, you know it's not for lack of effort. I tried to maintain consistency with habits, read Atomic Habits three times, and attempted techniques from Deep Work, only to question my own existence amidst the burnout.
With hindsight, I realize I was pushing myself beyond sustainable limits for too long. The lessons I gleaned during my time in the ward were profound.
The Key to Self-Discovery
Being confined, albeit voluntarily, meant I had plenty of time. With no internet or phone and being the only foreigner without language fluency, I initially panicked. But soon, I found solace in the absence of distractions. I recognized my dissatisfaction with my job and realized that a more fulfilling life was essential.
It was only weeks after my stay, coinciding with the onset of COVID, that I recognized I had been practicing "slow living." This approach, which encourages self-reflection and understanding, may be pivotal for self-improvement.
Self-improvement is often pursued through habit-building. Yet, many struggle to sustain these habits, leading to a high failure rate for New Year’s resolutions. The statistics show that 80% of people give up by February. The challenge lies in creating a system that aligns with who you are.
First Principles in Slow Living
My initial days in the ward were spent sleeping soundly, despite the discomfort of the bed. It wasn’t long before I rediscovered yoga, an activity I had neglected for a year. The environment was stripped down to essentials, allowing me to return to first principles—understanding my true self.
"Reasoning from first principles" means breaking down assumptions to uncover the truth. In the chaotic rush of life, I had forgotten my love for yoga and its philosophy. In the stillness of the ward, I reconnected with these passions, allowing me to cultivate a practice that resonated deeply.
I was no longer practicing yoga due to external pressures but out of genuine interest. This realization transformed my approach to self-improvement. I had the freedom to rediscover what felt right for me.
Understanding Slow Living
Admittedly, I struggled to engage with a Slow Living video I attempted to watch. While it originated from Italy's slow movement in the 1980s, Slow Living is about being present—letting go of past regrets and future anxieties. It encourages self-reflection and acceptance.
This lifestyle isn't just for minimalists; it requires discernment. Slow Living is a mindset where actions align with your core values. Before my two-month "sabbatical," I was living life at a breakneck pace, unable to appreciate the individual moments.
Slow Living emphasizes prioritizing what truly matters to you. While suggestions can guide you, the most fulfilling path is to follow the elements of yourself that you've rediscovered.
Introducing Meaningful Habits
During my stay, I found pockets of free time to engage in activities that resonated with me, such as drawing. The environment facilitated my focus. However, reintegrating back into daily life proved challenging, as I had to confront the habits that led me to the hospital.
I learned that my environment greatly influenced my success. The connections I fostered with my interests became essential for sustaining my growth. I realized that pursuing goals that didn't align with my true self would likely lead to failure.
Testing and Adapting
As I contemplated sharing my experiences, I recognized that perfection isn't the goal. Life is a series of ups and downs, filled with challenges. Returning to first principles can lead to failures, as I discovered when I pursued a teaching career that didn’t suit me.
With Slow Living, I learned the importance of listening to myself and adapting my environment to support my well-being. Embracing my emotions allowed me to connect with the present and appreciate life's richness.
Living Fully
As February approaches, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on past resolutions and identify areas for improvement. Self-improvement is an ongoing journey that thrives on embracing our messy, human nature. By connecting with ourselves and the world, we can continue to grow.
Instead of chasing fleeting results, focus on cultivating lasting change through Slow Living. As I refine my crafts, I strive to create value for others. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I look forward to sharing more insights.
The first video, "Perks of Going to the Psych Ward," explores the unexpected benefits of psychiatric care and personal growth through such experiences.
The second video, "I AM NORMAL | Omeleto," provides a poignant narrative about embracing normalcy and the complexities of mental health.
References & Resources
- Clear, James. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
- Honoré, Carl. In Praise of Slowness: Challenging the Cult of Speed