It's a little easier for me, I guess, because I died an Atheist but made it back with Jesus' help. Changed my life completely. Left the corporate world. Got rid of all my so called friends. Went recluse for 3 years. After year 1, I remember being invited to a big party of the who's who of who I once knew. I went. I wanted to belong. I failed big time. While I did not drink, I participated in things I knew where wrong. Gossiping, making fun of people, etc. I felt like **** when I pulled out of the parking lot and I knew I was not ready to live in the world as I know was. Wasn't strong enough yet. So, I went underground another 2 years. Continued to study the Bible. My illness relasped a time or two. Whatever.
Year 5 I emerged again. A very different and stronger person. There is nothing this world has to offer me. Wealth, fame, fortune, clothes, cars, etc. In fact I am disgusted by all the marketing that I see every day which is particularlly ironic since that's what I did in my corporate life. Pedaled my products.
People who know me know me now, know that 99% of what comes out of my mouth is true and if I tell you I will do something, I will. If I tell you I won,t I'll tell you why and I don't. I have 2 friends left from my previous life. They sometimes don't want to hear what I have to say on a matter because they know you can't BS an old BS'r.
I guess all I can say is, know who and what and why you are.