We feel all the feels for lots of different reasons.

Our emotions serve as red flags—big ole cues—that we need to make a change. Maybe it’s time to ditch that toxic relationship or start running after school or cut down on the number of hours you’re putting in at work.

Take your feelings seriously, but never personally.

What does that mean?

It means your feelings don’t correlate with your worthiness, your coolness, your everything-ness. If you feel like shit, it doesn’t mean you’re shit. On the flip side, if you feel unstoppable, make damn sure you’re putting in the effort. Positive feelings are a sign that you’re on the right path—not a signal that you’ve arrived.

Keep doing what you’re doing to stay on track and maintain that good work.

Illustration by Shyanne Trutwein.