Miss Recovery:

First of all, life is challenging while we are here in the physical, because being challenged is part of the reason we come here. We intentionally separate ourselves from our innate divinty, take on some thought patterns that are egoic in nature, and surround ourselves with difficult circumstances, so we can learn the lessons we learn while here. So don't be so hard yourself. The traits that bog you down aren't really you, and they last for an incredibly short period of time compared to the eternal nature of your true self.

To get to the point where things become more clear for you,  you'll need to look at the thought patterns and issues that trouble you, and find a way to let go of them.  A good way to start is to spend a little time in meditation now and then, and try to get a feeling for the real you. The being that is aware of what takes place in your life. It isn't necessary to bring your mind to a complete stop to do this. Just realize that whatever you perceive points to you the observer.  After a while you'll get used to meditating in this way, and you'll find a way to get a little space from the thought patterns that ail you. You'll also learn to tune into inner love, peace and happiness.

Another thing to do is to make a list of the things that troubled you during your life, and make certain that they aren't still troubling you in some way. If they are still troubling you, try to come to the point where you realize that there is no physical life issue that defines what you and reality are about to an extent, where it needs to bind you in some way.

Say for instance, somebody was really mean to you during your youth. This causes you to carry around an inner hurt.  Realize that this person can't hurt the divine being you really are.  Realize that a day will come where you will abide as a spirit, and what this person did to hurt you will seem like something that happened in last night's dream. Realize that if this person knew better, he or she would not of made the mistake of hurting you in the way he or she did.  Realize that a time will come when you and this person will no longer abide in the land of confusion and lessons, and will abide in a realm of great love. Forgive them, forgive yourself, recapture your true self.

Another good thing to do is pay attention to your dreams. After a while you'll realize that you can receive messages in them from a divine source that knows and loves you completely, and wants to do what it can do to help you. Keep a dream journal by your bed, so you can make notes before you forget the content of your dreams.

It also helps to pray for divine help. I and others have done so and have received help.

Welcome Miss Recovery and welcome back Stacy. just waving at you!