Family Secret Keepers

No question about it. Speaking up and out causes anxiety in most people. We worry about retaliation, potential conflict and judgment. Preparation is the great equalizer.

1. Choose words that convey your message.
2. Skills practice to get ready.
3. Determine method and timing.

I am a real person just like many of you. Being beaten down and groomed for abuse at an early age, I kept recreating that behavior for far too long. Let me share what I learned and what worked to offer some shortcuts you may want to take on your own healing journey.

Negative self-talk perpetuates messages we received earlier in life. We are renting space in our heads to the people who informed our beliefs about ourselves. They were wrong. Learn how to reframe those thoughts because it is not your fault.

1. Understand guilt and shame.
2. Identify negative thoughts.
3. Begin a gratitude practice.
4. Create and post affirmations.
5. Practice self-care.

We all have circumstances in our lives that bring us down or set us back a few steps. Learn how to bounce back from those challenges by staying adaptable, finding a sense of purpose, asking for help, joining a community, and understanding gratitude.

Even when other people don’t want to hear your truth, don’t let that stop you. When you write or speak your truths, you can feel exposed, vulnerable, naked. Not everybody will respond positively to your words, However, speaking up is a release. Keeping your story in, slows the healing process.

Follow Babs’ amazing journey from child sexual abuse, domestic violence and neglect through building a new family, striking out on her own and healing. Learn how she gives meaning and purpose to her life. And how you can too.