Sometimes I think of the family unit as a mould and its children the raw material. It is a simple analogy to describe the complexity of family relationships and influences.
My childhood moulded me in many ways. Primarily, I became a self-sufficient perfectionist. Qualities that made me ambitious and propelled me forward. But, I eventually found that these traits did not always work in my best interest displaying themselves in either a Dr. Jekyll or a Mr. Hyde persona.
It took time and reflection for me to identify Mr. Hyde's influence. I saw nothing wrong with being self-sufficient until I realized that I rarely sought out help. I know now that not everything can be accomplished alone. Life would have been easier for me if I had sought out a mentor in business and a health professional for my depression.
Being a perfectionist wasn't all it was cut out to be either. Things often didn't get finished because they were imperfect to my eyes or it took an unreasonable amount of time to complete a task when I couldn't detach myself from the details.
But among my key characteristics, I am also highly introspective. Human nature fascinates me and I am my primary subject of study.
Life is becoming easier now that I have acknowledged that it is okay to admit I don't have all the answers.
