despite this, I sit here in 2015 happier and more successful than i've ever been. it's taken a dozen years, but all of those different approaches i've tried have left me with an assortment of techniques and reminders that keep me sane, healthy, and optimistic. i have a job that's been my dream since i was nine years old. i have a positive disposition that's virtually never compromised. for at least half a decade now, each year of my life has been significantly more enjoyable and fulfilling than its predecessor. in an odd way, i owe much of if not most of this to my struggle with anxiety