You are not your past. You can make choices in each new moment. You have more tools and awareness than your past self— use them and create the life you were destined for.
A growth minded friend or partner wants to hear your perspective even when it’s uncomfortable. Their goal is to get better. Instead of letting their ego get in the way.
Boundaries sound like:
“I’m not comfortable with that”
“I need you to ask before borrowing my things”
“Please call me before just dropping by”
“I can come, but I won’t be all to stay over”
AFFIRMATION: I can do difficult things. I know I am resilient. Making mistakes is part of the process. I am learning every time I get out of my comfort zone.
Nobody talks about how hard it is to watch your parents age. How you see them struggle with things that used to be easy. How a fear comes over you that you can’t really explain.
It’s real.
Your nervous system will tell you when you’ve had enough through overstimulation. You’ll struggle to think clearly, will be on the verge of tears, or completely numb. Burn out is not something to push through— it’s a message from your nervous system to stop.
Affirmation: I give myself permission to start over. I make new choices every day. New people are coming into my life with the same values and level of compassion I have.
A safe person is someone you feel you can fully be yourself around. You don’t feel judged. You know you’ll be heard. And the relationship flows without pressure.
People are getting emotionally healthy. They’re not going settle for toxic workplaces and disconnected relationships. This will create conflict with people who benefit from dysfunction as normal.
AFFIRMATION: I know my worth. I speak up for myself. I am kind but firm. I let someone know if I’m uncomfortable. I’m more and more aware of how I actually feel.
Let yourself cry. Scream into a pillow. Shake your body. Suppressing our primal responses blocks us from returning our body back to a parasympathetic state.
Affirmation: I give myself grace during times of overwhelm or stress. I don’t need to be perfect or feel happy all the time. It’s ok to feel off and I use that time to relax and recharge without pushing myself.
Self regulation is the ability to handle stress and uncomfortable emotions. It’s the ability to be resilient and connected rather than reactive and disconnected.
Our nervous system goes into fight (aggression) flight (run away) freeze (playing dead) and fawn (people pleasing) to keep us safe from threats.
What nervous system state do you notice yourself going into most?
5 ways to show appreciation for someone:
1. Text them “I am so grateful you’re in my life.”
2. Offer to cook dinner or make a meal for them
3. Send them a small gift card $5-10 for coffee
4. Listen to them vent if they need it
5. Make them something by hand (get crafty!)
How
Affirmation: I am there for my younger self. I am capable of trying new things. I welcome new people into my life. I’m ready for experience life in new ways.
5 WAYS TO COMPLIMENT SOMEONE WITHOUT USING THEIR APPEARANCE:
1. I love how passionate you are about things you care about.
2. Being around you just feels good.
3. I love how kind you are to everyone.
4. You’re so curious and open, I value that about you.
5. I admire how you
Pets regulate your nervous system.
When you lay next to them, cuddle them, or notice how relaxed they look in the safety of your home. Your nervous system relaxes and feels safe, too.
4. Gentle reminder: our ego loves to rush. It wants quick results, hacks, and immediately. The truth is that healing takes commitment, patience, and a lot of self compassion.
HOW TO SUPPORT SOMEONE:
1. Ask: “how can I support you right now?”
2. Let them know you’re there to listen: “I’m hear you listen to whatever you need to get off your chest”
3. Don’t give unsolicited advice.
Mental resistance is a part of every new habit. Expect your brain to resist. Take small steps. Congratulate yourself along the way. Keep going. And forgive yourself when you fall back into old patterns.