Preparing myself for pain. Not. #betrayal #rejection #grief

​Navigating emotional pain, rejection, betrayal, and grief is overwhelming and complex. While I'm not a substitute for professional advice or therapy, I can offer some general strategies that are helping me cope:

Acknowledging and Expressing Feelings

1. Acceptance: I allow myself to feel how I feel without judgment. Sometimes, I feel hurt, sad, angry, and confused all at the same time and it's difficult to distinguish all of them, so the process takes time and energy.  Don't expect to do a five-mile hike followed by pickleball in the afternoon.  Introspection is a difficult process, but fortunately it won't last forever, and I will come out a healthier and saner person. 
2. Journaling: I use my blog as a journal, so I do write about my feelings while processing on occasion. I do this because a person said to me how much she appreciated my writing about my journey. Now, I do it for myself, her, and anyone else who is struggling.
3. Talk to Someone: Today I met a wonderful group of women from my church. I wish everyone had access to them. They are so wise, and I can't thank them enough for letting me into their circle. I am superficially Christian; these women are beyond belief. I am honored to have met them. Just being there with them was so healing.  As I've said before I've made innocent mistakes. I struggled so hard to find myself.   

Self-Care and Healing

1. Self-Compassion: I try to be kind to everyone. Even to people who do not deserve my kindness. Plus, I was very naive. The last four years I have been introduced to all the bumps and bruises that come with being on your own. Learning to be kind to myself has been a difficult journey, but I'm getting there. I am learning about toxic people, stubborn people, competitive people, no judgement here, it's just the beauty of life and all its forms. 
2. Mindfulness: GREATEST lesson I've learned is mindfulness. I am an overthinker. It is my protection. I want to know everything like where I'm sitting in the car if I go out with people. Is it polite to always get in the back seat? Is it OK to sit in the front? Concentrating on what is right in front of me has given me great relief. Taking each moment over the other allows me to breathe. 
3. Physical Activity: Exercise releases endorphins, which improves the mood and overall well-being. Hiking and pickleball are my saviors. 

Seeking Growth and New Perspectives

1. Learning: I am studying psychology. It is online and it is really a tough course. Because I find it fascinating, I can immerse myself in it. Now I take time to step away and process before jumping into the next one. 
2. Creative Outlets: I'll try anything. Except Karaoke. 
3. Setting Goals: I made my goals super small in the bigging. Getting out of bed was tough enough. Now I have learned to go places on my own. 

Professional Support

1. Therapy: A licensed therapist can provide valuable insights and coping strategies tailored to any situation.
2. Support Groups: Join a group of people who have gone through similar experiences. It provides so much comfort and understanding. 

This isn't all about grief. Life journeys are about healing, and it's okay to take it one step at a time. If you ever need to talk or need more suggestions, I'm here for you.💙 Email or text me anytime.