When we openly express our vulnerabilities and accept our feelings and past, we can feel the strength to live life unencumbered and unbounded. Only through vulnerability can we aim for true empowerment. When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and openly express our emotions, it can be life-changing and empowering. We can feel free and confident to take on life's challenges if we accept how we feel. Thus, by embracing our authentic selves, the power of true courage will arise. Throughout our conversation today, my goal is to not only explain what the statement means to me but also to help it make an impact on each person in the room. Graduating in two weeks from Indiana University with a degree in Business, I cannot stress how important it is to have an effective interview when applying for an internship, club or job. My studies have shown that the best way to achieve this is to be thoroughly prepared. My colleague asked me a question during one of my first mock interviews which I had never encountered before: "What are some of your weaknesses?" My greatest strengths lie in my ability to lead and manage time well, as well as my attention to detail. Laughing, I responded jokingly "Honey, I think you meant to ask what my strengths were!" She gazed at me with a blank expression, and asked, "So what are your weaknesses?" I became defensive when she asked about my weaknesses, saying "Why would you want to know about what I'm bad at? Let me tell you about what I'm good at". She responded, "No, your weaknesses are actually what make you most capable. Being aware and accountable of them is crucial." I immediately felt something in me change when she said that. I had to take a moment of reflection and think about why I used to think vulnerability and weakness were bad qualities when exposed to others?
Growing up, my entire life was shaped by strong, driven women who demonstrated their love and care through nurture and compassion. This is what ultimately led me to return to the root of my upbringing. No matter the circumstance, I'm dedicated to sharing light, love and happiness with those who are around me. I've always been someone who gives to others, no matter how I'm feeling inside. Growing up, it was just something that came naturally to me. Whenever someone needs help, I'm there to provide it. No, you are not anchored yourself if you are anchoring everyone else around here. We often choose to push away our weaknesses instead of embracing them, and for each of us there are various excuses, barriers, and walls that prevent us from dealing with these emotions. After finding the answer to this question I had to pause and ask myself why do we act like this? We often tend to downplay compliments that we receive, especially for women. For example, if someone says "Wow, that event was incredible!" or "You look amazing!", our initial reaction might be "Oh no, I must have looked terrible!" or "No way, you looked so much better than me!" We often seek validation from external sources before we begin to value ourselves, even though this leaves us feeling insecure. We find it hard to acknowledge that no one can give us the worth that we must give ourselves. The true barrier, blocker and wall that I have created is my own mentality. This has been the biggest obstacle that I have had to face. Why do I focus so much on my own pain when everyone around me is going through experiences way worse? Surely, helping those around me should be my first priority. As a result, my own issues can wait until later since mine don't seem to matter as much.
At the age of sixteen, this especially impacted me. One August day, my parents called us into the kitchen to tell us that they were getting divorced. When I was still sixteen, it came as a surprise. I was shocked when my Dad told us that he and my Mom were actually getting a divorce. Despite this, it seemed like a great situation; we wouldn't have to change homes, still have family dinners on Sundays, and our parents would remain best friends. Half of me rejoices - for the 21-year-long friendship between them still standing strong. The other half, however, cries in sadness - seeing the two people I have known so long go their separate ways. I didn't want to accept what had happened, so instead I suppressed the experience; this caused it to be invalidated for me. It does sounds like I'm trying to offer reassurance to people who are going through a divorce or experiencing its aftermath, and that's very empathetic of me. It's important to let them know that they are not alone in their struggles and that many people have navigated similar situations successfully. Divorce can certainly be a challenging experience for everyone involved, including the children. Financial issues, strained relationships, and changing family dynamics can all take a toll on one's emotional well-being. However, as you mentioned, many people have come out of these situations stronger and more resilient. So if you're offering support to someone going through a divorce or its effects, it's crucial to be a good listener and to provide a safe space for them to share their feelings. Encourage them to seek professional help if needed, as therapists and support groups can be valuable resources for navigating the emotional landscape of divorce. Finally, remind them that, although the process may be difficult, it can also be an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. As with any major life event, it's essential to maintain a sense of hope and to focus on the potential for positive change. My pain is not validated, so none of the things I went through matter. No matter what, I cannot say any of them for myself. The craziness of it all is that the mere thought of us alone can be made apparent once we are brave enough to vocalize it – that all we can rely upon is ourselves. By not validating my pain and healing myself, I'm only revealing what I think will give me validation from others. In other words, I'm hiding who I really am in favor of showing people what I want them to see me as. Sometimes we put on a brave face and try to present ourselves in the most positive light, even when we're struggling within. It can have damaging effects on both our relationships and ourselves if we don't recognize our true emotions.
My little sister and I have one of the most important relationships in my life, and recently I was taken aback by something that really had an effect on me. My sister and I, despite being four years apart, weren't always very close. One of the reasons for this was the age gap between us and another reason is our vastly contrasting personalities. Let's take a step back and explore all the potential solutions in this situation. We should weigh every option carefully before making any decisions. My attitude is resolute and determined, so we can make this happen. My sister is also invested in finding a way to make this work out for everyone. She always understands when I'm stressed out or having a hard time and will gently remind me: "Haley, relax - we get it, you're a Capricorn!" If my sister and I are in a disagreement or something's not going right, she often uses astrology to try and help me relax. She'll remind me that it could be related to a period of retrograde, so it's best to take a step back and breathe. She was an amazing person, and I loved her for that. However I'm sorry to have learned that my friend is going through such a difficult time; having been diagnosed with severe anxiety and depression and having considered suicide to prove it. Of course, even I remember that it's crucial to take these mental health concerns seriously, as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts can be life-threatening. Supporting someone with severe depression and anxiety can be challenging, so it's essential to take care of your own mental health as well. Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist if you need support or advice.
When someone that you deeply care about is going through an incredibly difficult situation, it can be incredibly painful for you. It breaks your heart to know the person you love is suffering in this way. No matter how it broke me, I didn’t let it define who I was or what I was worth. I refused to let whatever it was that had broken me determine my value or identity; instead, I kept moving forward. I tried my best to offer encouragement and positivity in helping her. I shared what I was doing in school, as well as how great her own future is going to be, emphasizing that we would both do amazing things. I wanted nothing more than for her to know that everything would be okay. I felt a wedge between us that I had never experienced before and wasn't sure why. Distance had crept in, making it the greatest disconnect I'd ever encountered with her. I was feeling overwhelmed and teary one day, without knowing how to manage my emotions. But when I looked at her, I expressed my love and support: "I might not know the right way to help you, but I'm here for you and I'll walk with you." No matter how hard I tried to show it, Haley knew what my intention was today. I was left speechless, almost in tears as she said to me, "That's what I wanted. You showed up for you today as Haley Skiko."
No matter what happens, the people that we love and those who love us will always accept and embrace us. That's something I've come to realize - that it doesn't matter how we present ourselves on any particular day; they will still be there with their unconditional love and support. Here, we can feel secure and confident that no matter what others hear, they will continue to love and embrace us. We are able to own our identity and know our worth. Sometimes when we are feeling weak on the outside, it can help us to recognize and open up about our anxieties and nerves. By doing this, we are able to embrace our identity and allow others to see the true version of ourselves. Our relationship is much better now and it has shown me that opening up and being honest with those close to us creates strong bonds. She has been on a path towards happiness, teaching me that not withholding my true feelings is key in growing our connection. We must credit ourselves for both our strengths and our losses; the two sides of who we are. Our weaknesses and losses should be acknowledged just as much as our wins and strengths. Otherwise, we are not truly embracing all that makes us who we are. Our weaknesses and losses can be seen as opportunities; to gain, process and grow. We can take the time to reflect on how this has made us feel and use it as an opportunity to grow from our experiences into a stronger version of ourselves, so we won't feel the same way again. Our wins and strengths are important chances to approve ourselves and recognize that yes, our efforts were worth it and we ought to be proud. It's ok to recognize our own accomplishments! Today, we have the ability to look in the mirror, embrace our true selves and accept that we can't always give 100%, yet still be 100% ourselves. Knowing this will allow us to continue to show up for those around us with our fullest effort each and every day.
Today, before you give in to what is expected of you and strive to be strong in all circumstances, take a moment to ask yourself how you are feeling? Own who you are and figure out ways on how it can benefit both parties. This way, it can lead to mutual growth. I am acutely aware of my weaknesses and when asked in interviews, I openly state that I have difficulty with impatience, an attention to detail and I can sometimes move too quickly. Yet, I am taking responsibility for it as I strive to develop myself further and help others do the same. Only by embracing our vulnerabilities and bravely facing our emotions can we gain the strength to live life without restraints. When we are vulnerable, we can experience true liberation and joy. Anyone feeling weak, struggling, or in pain should know that it is what makes them strong. Allowing yourself to process, heal, and learn from the experience can help you become stronger. It's wonderful to provide encouragement and support for those dealing with mental health issues. Here's a message of hope and resilience you can share: To everyone who is struggling with mental health issues, please know that you are not alone. Many people have faced similar challenges and have come out stronger on the other side. It's crucial to remember that help is available, and reaching out to friends, family, or a mental health professional can make all the difference. Take small steps every day to care for yourself, whether it's engaging in activities you enjoy, practicing relaxation techniques, or seeking support from loved ones. It's important to be patient with yourself and recognize that healing takes time. Remember that your feelings and emotions are valid, and it's okay to ask for help. Your journey to better mental health may not be easy, but it's worth it. Keep going, and know that you have the strength and resilience within you to overcome these challenges. To everyone supporting someone with mental health issues, thank you for your empathy and understanding. Your presence and encouragement make a difference in the lives of those you care for. Stay strong and continue to offer your support. Together, we can foster a world of hope, understanding, and resilience.
See also: https://mygodsentangels.com/