When we think of change, it can sound both scary and exciting. While I know from firsthand experience that change can be incredible, I also know how intimidating it can be. Something I believe that everyone should keep in mind is that it is never too late to make a change in your life, whether it’s big or small!

While the nostalgia I feel for the game may be as simple as being a game I played in my youth, there is something deeper about Animal Crossing that evokes this feeling amongst many of its players. 

Nostalgia can be described as a sentimental yearning for the past. Many positive things can come from nostalgia, such as boosting our mood and finding motivation. When you find yourself thinking about the past, reflect on the ways you can use these memories as a tool to improve your current self.

Independence is often described as the ability to do everything on your own. For me, independence has never been that simple. It has been something I’ve had to redefine over and over again—learning to hold onto my autonomy while also relying on others for the things I cannot do alone.

While independence may be your default, dependence is vital, and as much as it is important to rely on others, you must reciprocate as well. If someone in your community is in need, you help in any way you can. Remember what they have done for you, and try your best to return the favor.

A healthy amount of independence involves feeling comfortable on your own and being able to support yourself. What people often omit from this advice is that you can go too far in that direction and end up dealing with hyper-independence. But being independent doesn’t mean that you completely cut off any outside support; everyone needs help and companionship from time to time.

Adaptability and flexibility are the greatest strengths of ADHD. We thrive in spontaneity and adversity because of our unique ability to adapt to new situations and stress. You can bring that incredible strength to the way you love yourself, and the way you take care of your body and brain.

Joy isn’t objective. It is up to us to define what it means. Joy is something we gather in small moments over time.

You are allowed to be okay with things the way they are. Those changes only happen when you want them. Other people can’t make you want it. Someday, maybe you’ll change your mind. Maybe you won’t. It’s okay.

You’ve been invited to a Dungeons & Dragons campaign—whether you’re a forever DM, you grew up playing, you watch streams, you’re a nervous newbie, or you have to look up the name. As you begin, the host asks: What kind of character arc do you want to play?

We should always strive to continue changing, growing, and learning from our mistakes and past experiences.

Living in fear of what others might think of you is a form of harmful self-obsession not many talk about.

Showing weakness is not a bad thing to be avoided at all costs, and neither is showing emotion. Expressing vulnerability is a neutral trait which will be fit for some circumstances, and unfit for others.

Listening to uplifting songs and singing along also has the capacity to boost our moods by increasing the serotonin levels in our brains.

People outgrow each other. When the spark fades or you’re unfulfilled with another person, sometimes the answer is an ending. In your relationship with yourself, though, you can’t part ways. So how do you stay connected with you?