Episode 8: Dealing With Depression: Taking Steps Towards Hope and Purpose

Welcome back to the Vision to Victory blog—where we talk about practical ways to turn your dreams into reality.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been exploring how to build a rhythm of peace and pursuit—a life that’s grounded and intentional, rather than overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or distraction. We’ve talked about how to be present, how to say no to things that steal your peace, and how to pursue goals that bring meaning and fulfillment.

Today, we’re staying on the theme of pursuit—but with a different focus.

When Depression Gets in the Way of Pursuit

As I’ve talked with friends, family, and listeners, a common theme has come up:
Depression often blocks people from pursuing what matters most.

And while depression can be complex and deeply personal, I want to share some thoughts that may help. This isn’t medical advice—but it is grounded in experience, research, and real-life conversations. If you're in a place where professional help is needed, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical or mental health professional.

That said, many forms of depression are tied to things we can influence, and today I want to explore some of those.

Depression Often Feels Like Hopelessness

While depression looks different for everyone, one common thread I’ve seen and experienced is this:

Depression often feels like hopelessness.

It tells us that things will never change. That what we’re facing is permanent. That we don’t have control. Even if we don’t say those words out loud, that narrative often runs in the background.

But here’s the truth:

Hopelessness is a lie.

Nothing in life is permanent. Not your struggles. Not your current season. Life is dynamic, messy, and ever-changing—and that’s actually good news. Because it means things can change. You’re not stuck.

What If Life Isn’t Supposed to Be Easy?

Many of us, myself included, grew up with a subconscious belief that life should be smooth if we’re doing it right. So when life gets messy—as it inevitably does—we feel like something’s wrong with us. That gap between expectation and reality leads to disappointment and sometimes depression.

But the truth is:

Life is messy. And that’s okay.

You’re not the only one going through something hard. Everyone around you is navigating challenges—many of which you can’t see. You’re not broken. You’re not alone. You’re human.

When we accept that, we can release unrealistic expectations and begin to build a more grounded, peaceful mindset.

Four Practical Steps for Battling Depression

If you’re feeling stuck in a season of depression, here are four simple but powerful steps you can start today:

1. Talk About It

Don’t carry it alone. Depression thrives in isolation.
Talk to a friend, a family member, a counselor—someone safe who cares.

When we speak things out loud, the weight often gets cut in half.

You don’t have to have all the answers. Just start with honesty.

2. Take One Step

Whatever your mountain is—whatever feels too big right now—just focus on one small, positive step today.

• Make your bed.

• Go for a walk.

• Drink some water.

• Write down a goal.

Even the smallest action is a vote of confidence in your ability to move forward.

3. Be Mindful of Your Input

When we’re feeling low, we often surround ourselves—consciously or not—with things that reflect our mood: sad music, negative news, endless scrolling.

Be intentional with what you put into your mind.

Put on uplifting music. Read something inspiring. Get outside. Call someone who makes you feel good. What you take in matters—especially in vulnerable moments.

4. Remove One Thing That’s Holding You Back

You probably already know something in your life that’s dragging you down—a habit, a relationship, a pattern. Start by identifying just one thing, and make a plan to step away from it.

At the same time, keep taking positive steps forward.
Remove what’s not serving you. Add what moves you forward.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone, and You’re Not Stuck

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or hopeless, please know this:
You’re not alone. You’re not broken. And you’re certainly not stuck.

Life is messy—and that’s normal. But even in the mess, you can still live with peace, purpose, and hope. You can still find joy.

So today, talk about it.
Take one step.
Be mindful of your input.
Let go of what’s not serving you.

You don’t have to turn your life around in a day—but you can begin. And sometimes, beginning is everything.

Thanks for tuning into Vision 2 Victory, watch the full episode here.