It's fascinating that we can understand the need for loving and accepting yourself - even go as far to apply it to situations in the future when that does eventually occur, but still struggle to act on it in the now. I totally get where you're coming from there. It takes a long time, and much like any positive physical changes to your body, it comes in small tidbits that you won't notice yourself.

I'm very impressed that you have allocated your priorities in such a good manner too, when I was at University I was caught up in the party and the sports that academics fell behind - and it took me a few terrible grades to accept that the academics is literally the reason I was there int he first place. I don't know how old you are, but doing it at all speaks of maturity and a willingness to sacrifice.

I also agree in your plan, settle yourself in your main priorities; be it work or study, and let the others fall into place when you have the time. Getting on the horse sucks but you've done it once, and you'll do it again.

On the Maori culture, I think I can say yes - New Zealander's as a whole are known for being extremely laid-back, but also unerringly optimistic (especially in the rural areas where I hail from). We often get confused for being nonchalant to the point of apathy but we just operate under an overall feeling that things are going to be fine.

At the very least, you'll have some people on this forum wondering "What's TFG doing with his workouts?" And I reckon that'll get you back on the horse in no time; not because you require validation, but because you know we want to see you succeed.