“Deep breaths, girl,” she murmured to herself, pushing back the covers… “You’ve got this. One step at a time.”

She sat up slowly, the cool morning air caressing her skin. Her gaze drifted around the room… a cozy haven adorned with pieces of her new life. The stack of unread books on her nightstand, the half-finished painting leaning against the wall, the potted plants reaching toward the light.. all reminders of aspirations not yet fulfilled.

Yeah, and the worst version of yourself just happens to know what’s best? She thought wryly. For me, that’s what everyone else is doing anyway… Progress, not perfection. I am enough.

She swung her legs over the edge of the bed, her feet sinking into the plush rug below. The softness was a small comfort against the weight of her thoughts. Standing up, she padded over to the window, powering the curtain aside. The city stretched out before her, a tapestry of rooftops and organized streets.

Watching the highway flow into the city center, I feel the energy of the urban pulse, a steady heartbeat that draws me in. She mused. But for me, I can’t do something like that… it just doesn’t feel right. I’m uncomfortable. It won’t happen as I expect it to?

She traced the path of the highway with her eyes, imagining the lives of those already on the move, heading toward their destinations with purpose. A pang of envy tightened her chest. They all seemed to know where they were going, what they wanted.

Look at them down there… like you’re in their way or something… I’m sure that light was green. Bunch of rambunctious criminals running that red. Nobody does that. She shook her head. “Not today, self-doubt. I’ve overcome worse.” She whispered fiercely, squaring her shoulders. “I’ve got my own back.”