Words are invisible forces that carry a visible power. With a single sentence, we can ignite hope or extinguish it. With a few thoughtless words, we can build walls. We can break hearts. We can destroy relationships. With kind words, especially at just the right time, we can change someone’s life – or even our […]

You Don’t Have to Carry it All Somewhere along the way, many of us came to believe that we’re supposed to carry everything – every responsibility, every expectation, every emotion, every burden. That if we just tried a little harder, held on a little tighter, we could manage it all. But the truth is simple, […]

It’s easy to fall into the trap of defining yourself through the lens of others, especially in a world of likes, follows, and comments. Although valid thoughts from those you love and trust can be beneficial, allowing the opinions of others to dictate your self-worth, identity, or capabilities is entirely different. It’s also one of […]

….in Need of Care “I am not broken, I am in need of care.” Struggles are often misinterpreted as signs of weakness, failure, or being “broken.” The truth is, to hurt is human. Feeling deeply, stumbling, needing support – none of these make us defective. They make us alive. The statement, “I am not broken, […]

Being Safe and Seen at the Same Time We often think of vulnerability as revealing pain, fear, or uncertainty. These can be parts of it, but vulnerability is much broader. It’s about showing up as your whole self, without armor. It’s telling the truth about what you feel, need, or hope for – even when […]

When feeling sad, you’re often told to “look on the bright side” or “just be grateful” – as if acknowledging sadness is somehow a quick “flip of a switch” or a sign of showing ingratitude. Or how about “what do you have to be sad about” – as if sadness is somehow not worthy of […]

Do you ever catch yourself saying things like “I should be more productive,” “I should have gone to the store today,” or “I shouldn’t feel this way?” If so, you’re not alone. The word “should” seems innocent, maybe even helpful at times; but, in reality, it’s often a subtle (or not so subtle) form of […]

Winning, reaching goals, and checking off milestones – these all sound like things worth celebrating, right!?  What about the missteps, mistakes, and “failures” that shape us just as much as the triumphs. As a culture, the importance of recognizing the full journey – including both successes and “failures” – is often forgotten. Both deserving of […]

Reclaim it. Anxiety has its valid and clinical diagnosis. Let’s also talk about the deeply human idea of what anxiety can be – “imagination gone wrong.” As a human being, you are unique in your ability to imagine. You can visualize a future, dream up stories, anticipate outcomes, and simulate events that haven’t yet happened. […]

Life doesn’t always go as planned. A job falls through. A relationship ends. A dream detours. When challenges hit, your first instinct may be to ask, “Why is this happening to me?”  What if the better question is “How is this happening for me?” This simple change in perspective can transform how you navigate life’s ups and […]