Hi Friends,
I hope you were inspired and had a chance to celebrate someone in your life since last time we met here.
Being celebrated might not be a need, but how are you doing with expressing your needs in general? Or, let’s step back. How good are you at recognizing your needs? And validating them? Voicing them might be the last step.
Clarity would be good, wouldn't it?
In our journey through life, we often find ourselves entangled in a web of unspoken needs and misunderstood desires. As adults, we've mastered the art of concealing our true feelings, often prioritizing other’s needs over our own. However, if we take a moment to reflect, we can learn a valuable lesson from the simplest and purest beings among us:
babies.
My grand baby is 6 months old now and there is no doubt that she is expressing her needs. Babies are unapologetic. Babies are the epitome of clarity. When they're hungry, they cry. When they're uncomfortable, they let us know. Their needs are immediate, genuine, and non-negotiable. They don't worry about being judged or seeming selfish; they simply express themselves with raw honesty.
We adults, on the other hand, as we grow older, societal expectations, fear of rejection, and the desire to fit in lead us to cover up our true needs. We learn to suppress our emotions and downplay our desires. This often results in frustration, resentment, and a sense of unfulfillment.
If we want to reclaim our authentic voice to live a more authentic and satisfying life, we must learn to reclaim our inner clarity.
Here are some steps to help you get started:
1. Self-Reflection
Take time to understand what you truly need. This might involve journaling, meditation, or simply spending quiet moments with yourself. Identify your physical, emotional, and mental needs without judgment.
Is it a sunset? A walk alone? 15 minutes curled up in a chair with your favorite book? A girls night out? A day off? A get together with a friend? Watching a movie in your PJs? An honest conversation with a friend/boss/partner?
2. Communicate Openly
Once you are clear about your needs, communicate them openly with the people in your life. Whether it’s asking for help, setting boundaries, or expressing your desires, clear communication is essential. Remember, your needs are valid, and you deserve to have them met.
3. Practice Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself. Understand that it's okay to have needs and that expressing them doesn’t make you selfish. Self-compassion involves recognizing your worth and treating yourself with the same kindness you offer to others.
4. Set Healthy Boundaries
Boundaries are crucial in ensuring your needs are respected. Don’t be afraid to say no when necessary and to protect your time and energy. Healthy boundaries lead to healthier relationships and a more balanced life.
5. Seek Support
Don’t hesitate to seek support from a therapist, trusted friend or me, your life coach. Sometimes an outside perspective can help you gain clarity and provide the encouragement you need to stay true to yourself. I love supporting you in becoming your authentic self.
The power of living authentically and with clarity about your needs leads to a more fulfilling and joyful life. It allows you to form deeper connections with others, as they can understand and support the real you. By embracing your inner clarity, you also set an example for others, encouraging a culture of honesty and authenticity. Remember, like babies, our needs are fundamental to our well-being. By acknowledging and expressing them, we honor our true selves and pave the way for a more genuine and satisfying life. Embracing clarity about our needs is a journey back to our most authentic selves. It requires courage, self-awareness, and the willingness to be vulnerable. But, as we strip away the layers of societal expectations and fear, we find a profound freedom and joy in living a life that truly reflects who we are. Let's take a lesson from the babies and live with unapologetic clarity, ensuring that our needs are recognized, respected, and fulfilled.
Your affirmation this week:
I am finding out what my needs are.
PS: Message me for a free consult to start moving toward a more confident you.
You are loved. Deeply loved. Loved beyond measure.
Until next time,
Isabelle
Comments