Don’t compromise yourself. You’re all you’ve got.
-Janis Joplin
When life gets busy or overwhelmed, it can be hard to stay connected to yourself internally, let alone other people externally. Know that this is common when our lives get stressful or if you’re currently going through a major life change. It can be helpful here to think about your energy level before, during and after certain life events. What events fill you up energetically? Which ones leave you feeling drained and depleted? And also remember that if you’re an introvert you get your energy from being alone or in small groups, while extroverts get your energy from large groups of people. Ambiverts can sometimes be more introverted and sometimes more introverted depending on the external situation or how you’re feeling internally.
Read on for more helpful and concise information on why we grow apart from other people, why we lose touch with our authentic selves, and finally some self-care ideas to help you reconnect with your true self.
Why we grow apart from other people:
- They are jealous/envious of you
- A change in values
- Too much criticism/judgment
- Moving away
- Different interests
- A lack of trust
- You see their true colors
- They don’t have good intentions
- You lose yourself in the relationship
- The don’t appreciate the authentic you
What else would you add here?
Why we lose touch with our authentic selves:
- Following societal expectations
- Avoiding judgment and criticism
- We’re outwardly focused
- To fulfill familial roles
- People pleasing
- To fit in
- To meet parental expectations
- We minimize our own wants and needs
- We put other people first
- Work place constraints
What else would you add to this list?
Self-care ideas to help you reconnect with your true self:
- Journal
- Go outside
- Listen to a podcast/audio book
- Meditate
- Therapy
- Focus on mindfulness
- Exercise
- Eat healthy
- Tap into your creativity
What else helps you reconnect with your true self?
Losing touch with yourself and others can happen to all of us, especially during times to transition. If you’re currently struggling in one or both of these areas, know that you’re not alone. Please reach out to your doctor or a therapist in your area for more help and support. Also know that I’m thinking of you and sending lots of love and compassion your way as you navigate the current struggles in your life.
