Those who have a strong sense of love and belonging have the courage to be imperfect.
-Brené Brown
Do you feel like you do a good job following societal norms, or are you pushing against them? It seems many women push against them, especially as we get older. This has been my experience…
Let’s start with some of the things that can feel triggering if you’re not following the norm:
- You may feel lonely and isolated in everyday life
- It can feel exhausted and tired day in and day out
- You may feel misunderstood by others
- It may seem like you hate the opposite sex (which is untrue in most cases!)
- It can feel like you’re always arguing and fighting
- You may feel like no one truly sees you
- You may not feel loved and accepted for who you truly are
- You may get the message that looks are more important than substance
- You may struggle with feelings of sadness and feeling upset with others
- You may feel happy you’re finally standing up for what you truly believe in
- You may feel scared that society won’t ever change for the better
What else would you add here?
Ways to embrace your true, authentic self:
- Surround yourself with healthy, likeminded people
- Rest when you need to rest (R&R and self-care are both so very important to mental and physical wellbeing!)
- Know your own truth, and live in it!
- Explain yourself only to those who truly care about you and will listen
- Choose your battles wisely (know when to engage and not to engage with others)
- See yourself clearly for who you truly are deep down
- Love and accept yourself fully- warts and all!
- Substance is more important than the packaging
- Allow yourself to feel all your feelings
- Let yourself grieve the losses in your life
What else would you add here?
Self-care for when you’re carving your own path in life:
- Therapy
- Journal
- Talk to a trusted friend
- Spend time with loved ones
- Educate yourself
- Get enough sleep
- Exercise/ move your body
- Eat a healthy diet
- Stay hydrated
- Meditate and focus on the present moment
What else helps you when you’re carving your own path in life?
It’s not easy carving your own path in life. If this is you right now, know that you’re not alone. I’m sending lots of love and support your way as you embrace your true self right here and now!