Reddit reviews The Mindfulness Revolution: Leading Psychologists, Scientists, Artists, and Meditation Teachers on the Power of Mindfulness in Daily Life (A Shambhala Sun Book)

I'm currently trying to get over pretty much all the things you mentioned. This is a list of what's been working for me.

It's good that you're recognizing your limits and triggers for pain. That's been very important for me. I know what I'm capable of right now. If something comes up that I know I can't handle, I'm going to have to set boundaries.

Don't be so afraid of failure. So what if you get a job that you have to quit 2 weeks later? Now you know you can't handle that type of job. Try a different job when you feel up to it. It's ok to fall down. You will survive.

The same goes for hanging out with people. You can always try to socialize a bit, but if you feel tired remember, you are allowed to leave. Your friends should understand. I often feel selfish for turning down friends (even phone calls and texts), but I've realized that I need to set boundaries for myself so that I can feel my best.

As for meeting a partner or being a competent mother...I have a friend who tells me I worry too much about future things I can't conceive of or control. Stop worrying about nothing, he says. I say, take it one day at a time. If a day is too much to handle, take it hour by hour. Or less even. Just focus on your current, perceivable world. Practice mindfulness.

Above all, love. Learn how to love yourself in this pain-ridden state. If you can't achieve that, I feel that you won't be able to move on with your life. Yes, you are a person who has more to go through than the average human on a daily basis...but don't let your pain define you.

I feel like I could have been writing that to myself, so I apologize if it sounds condescending or bitchy. That's my brain kicking itself in the ass. Ah well. Take care, love. Here's an internet hug for you \o/