Navigating Mental Health in your Twenties with Mahlodi Letsie

In the boundless expanse of our twenties, where uncertainty and self-discovery intertwine, we invite you to embark on a transformative journey guided by the wisdom and experiences of Mahlodi Letsie, the Founder & CEO of Bare Mind Holdings.

Bare Mind Holdings is a HealthTech venture focused on destigmatizing mental health within African communities.?As a passionate mental wellness advocate, she holds degrees from The University of Cape Town and is currently pursuing her second postgraduate qualification in Mindfulness-Based Interventions at Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences.?

In addition, Mahlodi is a proud member of the Africa Wellness Initiative (AWI), an arm of the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), a non-profit organisation headquartered in Miami, that is dedicated to empowering wellness on a global scale.

With a profound commitment to destigmatizing mental health within African communities, Mahlodi's story is a tapestry of laughter, heartbreak, and unyielding resilience—a beacon to illuminate your own path of healing and self-discovery during this pivotal decade.

Navigating Navigating the Twenties with Mahlodi Letsie

In the vast expanse of our twenties, where uncertainty and self-discovery intertwine, I invite you to join me as we embark through the intricate maze of navigating mental health in our twenties.?

As the Founder of Bare Mind, I share my tale—a tapestry of laughter, heartbreak, and unyielding resilience—to illuminate your own path of healing and self-discovery during this transformative decade.?

From my earliest memories, I have always felt an intrinsic pull to carve my own destiny, to assign meaning to life through my unique lens. Yet, growing up, I was constantly compared to my older sister, who embodied perfection in my parents' eyes.?

"Why can't you be more like your sister?"?echoed their words, entwining self-doubt and rebellion within me. I adore my sister, but I also craved acceptance for my true self, not that I knew who that was at the time.

In the years that followed, as a defence mechanism, I donned a cloak of indifference to shield myself from the pain of rejection. The stamp of unworthiness took root, and I resolved to be deliberately different, determined to prove my worth to the world.

Oh, my teenage years!?

I was a wild storm, a master of sneaking out, a maestro of dodging the rules. My parents' frustration grew, and I revelled in my rebellion, seeking escape in the thrill of the streets. But 2010 brought a humbling lesson—I failed a grade, and life urged me to reassess my path. It was a painful blow, but it led me to a profound realisation—I needed to change my trajectory and embrace personal growth.

Thus, from that point onwards, I embarked on a relentless pursuit of self-improvement, yearning to prove myself. I transformed my academic trajectory, earning distinctions that brought me to the university of my dreams. However, the intimidating realm of academic excellence at UCT stirred old doubts from their slumber, and before I knew it, imposter syndrome crept in once more. The questions haunted me: "Will I make it through this degree? Am I destined to be a failure?"

Towards the end of undergrad, the universe delivered an unexpected gift—love.?

This connection delved into the depths of my soul, illuminating unseen facets of my being. It was as if I had found my long-lost home, a sanctuary where I felt truly accepted and cherished.?But love isn't a fairy tale—it also taught me hard lessons.?

I lost myself in trying to be everything for my partner, neglecting my dreams and desires. My identity became entwined with the relationship, and I neglected the vital exploration of my individuality. In the desire to be chosen by him, I placed my ex on a pedestal of grandeur, while I willingly took a backseat to myself. I yearned for validation and acceptance, seeking it outside of myself. It was a heart-rending test, revealing the peril of neglecting self-love and forsaking my own identity. I was so invested in fulfilling the expectations of the relationship that I overlooked my own needs and passions.

The perilous reality of losing oneself in love, is that we become mere spectators in the stories of others. I had forgotten that my own tale deserved to be written with bold strokes of self-discovery and fulfilment. It was a painful awakening to realise that in elevating my partner's needs above my own, I was relinquishing my worth and voice.?

Amidst the heartache and disillusionment, I found strength in this bittersweet revelation: self-love is the foundation of any relationship. It urged me to reclaim my identity and embrace my uniqueness with unwavering pride.

My dear friends, let my story serve as a reminder: as we journey towards creating our own families and building our lives. Love is the dance that may undoubtedly sweep us off our feet, but amidst the swirling emotions, you should always strive to remember that your identity is the heart of the symphony.?Remember toembrace your dreams with unwavering passion. Nurture those flames of ambition and never let them flicker out. And above all else, as you write this chapter of your twenties, let self-love be the cornerstone that fills every page with joy, confidence, and resilience.

From the fragments of heartbreak, I gradually reconstructed my sense of self-worth and purpose. No longer would I allow myself to play the role of a bystander in my own life. It was time to step into the spotlight, to embrace my passions, and to nurture the relationships that enriched my soul.

As I embraced the journey of self-love, I discovered the power of setting boundaries and prioritising my own well-being. No longer would I sacrifice my happiness for the sake of someone else's approval. Within this tumultuous journey, I discovered the catalyst that fuelled the creation of my start-up, Bare Mind.?

As I navigated my heartbreak, I felt invigorated to channel my pain into a mission—to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Witnessing my mother's silent struggles during with her mental health during the same time I struggled with mine, fuelled my determination to create a safe space for others seeking help.

With unwavering support from my family, I plunged into Bare Mind. It became my purpose, my lifeline, and a sanctuary for others yearning to embrace their unique paths. As I uncovered my voice, I found purpose in empowering others to prioritise their mental well-being and embrace their authenticity.

This transformative journey continues to teach me that mental health in your twenties is a labyrinth of emotions, trials, and growth. My university experience, the euphoria of falling in love, the heartbreak that followed, witnessing my mother's challenges—all became stepping stones on the path of resilience and self-acceptance.?

Though not all days are bathed in sunshine and rainbows, mindfulness and self-exploration have been my guiding stars. I continue to learn to befriend the inner critic, by embracing my imperfections and acknowledging that life is a masterpiece in progress; like an artist with a canvas, I paint the strokes of my life, embracing each experience as a stroke of growth.

To all of you brave souls navigating this transformative decade, know that it's okay to stumble and feel lost. Embrace self-discovery, seek help when needed, and surround yourself with a supportive community.?

Vulnerability is your superpower.

So my dear friends, brace yourself: As you fasten your seatbelts, know that you are in for the most enthralling ride of your life navigating your twenties.?

As you embark on this transformative journey, my most heartfelt wish for you is that you embrace every moment—the laughter, the tears, and even the growing pains. Let them be your cherished companions as you navigate the twists and turns of life.?

And in those moments when you feel lost, remember this: you are never alone.?

You are surrounded by a tribe, both seen and unseen, who walk beside you, cheering you on with unwavering love. So, go forth, dance fearlessly to the rhythm of your heart, and let your light shine brightly upon this world. Your journey is a tapestry of resilience and self-discovery, and is a masterpiece in the making… So, embrace it.

Make it a symphony of tears and triumphs, touching the hearts and souls of those around you, leaving a legacy that will forever echo through time.

Navigating the Twenties

#navigatingthetwenties #youngprofessionals #mentalhealth

Written by Mahlodi Letsie

Edited by Emma Reinecke