Search:
We have a great working relationship with the team at Youth Leads – and we are big admirers of the work they do. If you don’t know them already, you should check out what they do at the website. When we spoke to Abeer Abdul Aziz about the Everyday Success project they were so excited about it that that found not just one, but three young people to talk to us about the things they think make them successful and how those things help their wellbeing. We share their stories here:
Amina talks about safe spaces that help her to succeed
‘Having a safe space to talk about the things that worry me really helps. At home, I don’t often get a supportive environment where I can talk without being judged or having to navigate cultural norms. I take my mental health seriously and do my best to safeguard it, but sometimes it’s tough.
I love journaling before bedtime; it has helped me over the years. When I journal, I feel less anxious and get more restful sleep. Writing down my thoughts makes it easier for me to let go of them at night, so I don’t lie awake thinking about everything. I see journaling as a form of self-care, knowing I’m doing something to improve my mental wellbeing despite the external worries that can be out of my control. I realise that the more I take care of my mental wellbeing, the more I grow as a person, I’m more likely to engage in the activities I enjoy in my daily life. Like they say, “mental health is just as important as physical health” and we need to take care of it just like we do our bodies.
The safe space I mentioned is primarily about journaling, but there are also other spaces where I feel comfortable expressing my worries, such as youth spaces or a therapist. Journaling provides a private outlet, while other spaces can offer support and validation.
Journaling feels like a form of ‘success’ to me because it allows me to take control of my thoughts and emotions. By putting my feelings on paper, I can reflect on them, gain clarity, and track my progress over time. Every time I journal feels like a step towards understanding myself better and managing my anxiety.
The most positive impact that journaling has on my wellbeing is that it helps reduce anxiety. By writing down my worries, I can externalise them and often realise that they’re less daunting than they seem in my head. This gives me a sense of calm and helps me approach challenges with a clearer mindset.’
Tahirah talks about how Ramadan feels like a time she shows success and how this helps her
‘Ramadan always brings me a sense of peace and self-worth because it strengthens my connection with God. Every time I pray and make a prayer, I feel a deep sense of comfort, knowing that someone is always listening and looking out for me. It reassures me that I’m never alone in my struggles. No matter how I look or sound, I know I am valued because He created me, and for that, I am truly grateful. My faith helps me navigate life’s challenges, bringing me clarity and peace whenever I need it most.
Taking part in Ramadan prayer helps you get closer to your God and you get so many rewards for it; plus it makes you feel better about yourself that you’re doing something well which makes me feel successful.
The one most positive thing about my religion is praying, because whenever I make a prayer to my God I know it will be answered no matter how big or small of what I’m asking for. This helps my wellbeing by giving me faith that I will be okay.’
Chelsea might see her working out as a ‘whisper’ of success, but it has a ‘loud’ effect on her wellbeing
‘Most people think success looks like trophies and big achievements. But my success looks different. It’s quieter, barely even a whisper. My success is waking up on time and making my bed, even when my bed is warm and tempting. It’s choosing to study for 20 minutes when my mind tells me to procrastinate. It’s saying “no” to self-doubt and fear and saying “yes” to trying anyway. It’s moving my body when I’d rather stay still. It’s feeling out of place but staying anyway, because I know I deserve to be there.
And each day I try to do these things, but there are days I stumble, eat too much, skip workouts, procrastinate. But success isn’t about being perfect. It’s about choosing to keep trying. And every time I do, even in the smallest, tiniest way, I win.
I think for me personally; the most important success is working out. Working out isn’t just about physical health but also about showing myself that I can stay committed to something that makes me better. It’s always pushes me out of my comfort zone and teaches me patience and resilience.
When I workout , I feel a lot stronger. It clears my mind and reminds me that I’m capable of growth and change. That sense of accomplishment after a workout also affects other areas of my life, which makes me feel more and more confident in everything I do.’
