I often think about how in some games, the map starts out as mostly unknowable blank space, but as you putter around, it slowly reveals itself. Sometimes, this serves as a direct visual parallel in life, like how a previously daunting new city could turn into a familiar place where you know every little neighborhood and side street. In the interpersonal realm, strangers become acquaintances, friends, and partners. Even the insurmountable emotions of youth eventually become familiar territory that you can more easily navigate as you get older. It's hard to recognize the unveiling of these proverbial maps in the moment because it happens over the course of years, but regardless of what happens in a given day, you've grown and you've learned - you've explored more of the map. It's a bit lofty, but it helps get me through difficult moments. Maybe it could work for you too.
