Roar louder than your demons

Roar louder than your demons

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  • What is empathy?

    July 5th, 2024

    Empathy is a powerful tool that allows us to understand and connect with the feelings and experiences of others. It is essential to build strong relationships, foster effective communication, and create a more compassionate and understanding society.

    What exactly is empathy and why is it important?

    Empathy can be defined as the ability to put oneself in someone else’s shoes and see the world from their perspective. It involves understanding what someone else is going through and feeling the same emotions they are experiencing. It goes beyond sympathy, simply acknowledging someone’s pain and feeling it.

    Empathy is crucial in building and maintaining positive relationships with colleagues, clients, and customers in a professional setting. It allows us to understand their needs, motivations, and concerns and respond to them more effectively. By putting ourselves in others’ shoes, we can gain valuable insight into their perspectives, which can help us make better decisions and solve problems more efficiently.

    Empathy also plays a significant role in effective communication. When we are empathetic, we listen actively and pay attention to what is being said and how it is being said. This allows us to pick up on nonverbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice, which can provide valuable information about someone’s emotions and needs. By being empathetic in our communication, we show others that we value and respect their feelings, which can lead to more open and honest conversations.

    Moreover, empathy is crucial in creating a compassionate and understanding culture. Feeling understood and valued makes people more likely to be motivated, engaged, and productive.

    Empathy can also help to avoid conflicts and misunderstandings, as it encourages people to approach situations with a non-judgmental and open-minded attitude.

    It is important to note that empathy is not just an innate trait but a skill that can be learned and practiced. Here are a few ways to cultivate empathy:

    Listen actively: Make an effort to listen to others without interrupting or passing judgment. Pay attention to their body language and tone of voice to understand the underlying emotions.

    Put yourself in their shoes: Imagine how the other person feels and what they might be going through. This can help you understand their perspective better.

    Ask questions: If you are unsure about someone’s feelings or thoughts, ask them. This shows that you are interested in understanding them and their point of view.

    Practice self-reflection: Take time to reflect on your own emotions and experiences. This can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and others.

    Empathy is a crucial aspect of our lives. By cultivating empathy, we can improve our emotional intelligence and contribute to a more empathetic and harmonious society. So, let’s strive to be more compassionate in our interactions and see the positive impact it can have on ourselves and those around us.

    -🦩

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  • Healing from PTSD: Lessons from Two Years of Therapy

    July 2nd, 2024

    It’s been nearly two years since I began my journey in therapy to heal from PTSD, and the path has been both challenging and transformative. Here are some key lessons I’ve learned along the way:

    The Importance of a Safe Space

    Creating a safe and supportive environment is crucial. Whether it’s a therapy office, a quiet room at home, or a serene outdoor spot, having a place where you feel secure has been foundational for healing. This safe space has allowed me to explore my trauma without fear.

    The Power of Patience and Persistence

    Healing from PTSD is not a linear process. There have been setbacks and moments of doubt, but staying committed to the process has made all the difference. Patience with myself and with the therapy process has been vital. Persistence has been crucial to my growth, even when it felt like progress was slow.

    Understanding Triggers and Responses

    Identifying triggers and understanding my responses to them has been a significant part of therapy. Recognizing what sets off PTSD symptoms has helped develop strategies to manage them. This awareness has empowered me to take control of reactions and gradually reduce their impact.

    Developing Coping Mechanisms

    Through therapy, I’ve learned a variety of coping mechanisms to handle stress and anxiety. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and grounding exercises have become invaluable tools. These practices help me stay present and calm during challenging moments.

    The Role of Self-Compassion

    One of the most profound lessons has been the importance of self-compassion. Learning to be kind to myself, especially during distress, has been transformative. Accepting that healing is a gradual process and forgiving myself for setbacks has made the journey more manageable.

    Building a Support Network

    Therapy has taught me the value of a strong support network. Connecting with friends, family, and support groups has provided additional layers of understanding and encouragement. Sharing my experiences with others who understand PTSD has been particularly comforting and affirming.

    Reclaiming Control through Narrative

    Writing about my experiences has been therapeutic. It has allowed me to process my trauma and reclaim control over my story. Photography has complemented this by providing a visual outlet for expression. Together, these creative pursuits have been instrumental in the healing journey.

    Embracing the Journey

    Healing from PTSD is a continuous journey, not a destination. Embracing this perspective has helped me stay motivated and optimistic. Each step, no matter how small, is a victory. Celebrating progress and acknowledging the courage to confront trauma has been empowering.


    As I reflect on these past two years, I am grateful for the growth I’ve experienced and the resilience I’ve discovered within myself. Therapy has not only helped me heal from PTSD but has also equipped me with tools to face future challenges with strength and grace.

    If you’re on a similar journey, know that healing is possible, and every step you take is a testament to your courage and perseverance.

    -🦩

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  • A Tale of Two Childhoods: Growing Up Today vs. the 1980s

    June 26th, 2024

    The landscape of childhood has undergone significant transformation over the past few decades. Comparing today’s childhood with the 1980s reveals stark contrasts in technology, social interactions, and everyday experiences. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the differences and similarities between growing up in the 1980s and today.

    Technology: From Atari to iPads

    The 1980s: The 1980s were the dawn of the digital age. Kids played on Atari consoles, marveled at the blocky graphics of early video games, and were thrilled by the Nintendo Entertainment System’s (NES) arrival. Home computers were a luxury, and the internet was a distant concept. Entertainment was primarily consumed through TV shows, Saturday morning cartoons, and occasional trips to the movie theater.

    Modern children are digital natives, immersed in smartphones, tablets, and high-speed internet. They have access to endless entertainment options, from streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ to interactive video games with stunning graphics on consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are integral to their daily lives, providing both entertainment and social interaction.

    Social Interactions: From Face-to-Face to FaceTime

    The 1980s: Childhood in the 1980s was characterized by outdoor play and face-to-face interactions. Kids rode bikes around the neighborhood, played street hockey, and built treehouses. Friendships were forged in backyards, schoolyards, and during sleepovers. Communication was done in person or via landline phones, and handwritten notes were a common way to stay in touch.

    Today, while outdoor play still exists, much of children’s social interactions have moved online. Kids chat with friends through messaging apps, video calls, and online gaming platforms. Social media plays a significant role in their social lives, allowing them to stay connected with peers but also introducing new dynamics, such as cyberbullying and the pressure to maintain an online persona.

    Education: From Chalkboards to Smartboards

    The 1980s: Classrooms in the 1980s were equipped with chalkboards, overhead projectors, and physical textbooks. Learning was more linear, with teachers delivering lectures and students taking notes by hand. The research involved trips to the library and the use of encyclopedias.

    Today, modern classrooms are digital hubs featuring smartboards, tablets, and interactive learning apps. Students can access various online resources, making research more efficient and interactive. Distance learning has also become more prevalent, especially post-pandemic, offering flexibility but presenting challenges in engagement and access.

    Entertainment: From Saturday Morning Cartoons to Streaming Binge-Watching

    The 1980s: Saturday morning cartoons were a ritual, with kids eagerly waiting for their favorite shows like “He-Man,” “Transformers,” and “The Smurfs.” Trips to the arcade were a popular pastime, and listening to music meant tuning into the radio or playing cassette tapes. Movie nights were special events, often involving a trip to the video rental store.

    Today, entertainment is in demand. Kids can binge-watch entire seasons of shows on streaming platforms, play music from vast online libraries, and access a world of content at their fingertips. While this provides incredible convenience and variety, it also means that the magic of waiting for a specific time to watch a show or listen to a new album is primarily lost.

    Safety and Independence: From Free-Range to Close Monitoring

    The 1980s: Children in the 1980s enjoyed a high degree of independence. Parents often allowed their kids to roam the neighborhood unsupervised, trusting them to be home by dinner. The concept of “free-range kids” was the norm, and the world felt safer.

    Today, modern parenting trends emphasize safety and supervision. With increased awareness of potential dangers, many parents closely monitor their children’s activities. GPS tracking apps and constant communication via smartphones have reduced the level of independence that children once enjoyed. This shift has sparked debates about the balance between safety and the development of self-reliance.

    Bridging the Generations

    Both the 1980s and today offer unique and valuable experiences for children. The 1980s were marked by a simpler, more hands-on approach to life, fostering independence and imagination. Today’s children benefit from technological advancements that provide endless learning opportunities and global connectivity.

    While the essence of childhood—curiosity, play, and the desire to connect—remains unchanged, the methods and environments in which these elements are nurtured have evolved. Bridging the gap between these two eras involves recognizing the value in both and finding ways to incorporate the best aspects of each into modern parenting and education.

    Ultimately, the key is to ensure that, regardless of the era, children grow up feeling loved, supported, and empowered to explore the world around them. Whether through the lens of an 80s Polaroid camera or a modern-day smartphone, the joy of childhood remains a timeless treasure. Let your kids drink from the water hose, stay out after the street lights come on, and catch fireflies.

    -🦩

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  • Follow me on Instagram

    June 23rd, 2024

    www.instagram.com/roar_louderllc

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  • Do The Hard Work

    June 23rd, 2024

    Therapy is equivalent to a mental health gym membership – sure, you can sign up and show up, but if you’re not willing to put in the hard work, you won’t see any results.

    Let’s be honest. No one wants to pay a monthly fee to sit on the couch and complain about their problems without doing anything about them.

    So, what exactly does doing the hard work in therapy look like? For starters, it means being honest with yourself and your therapist. I know. Brushing things under the rug and pretending everything is fine is much easier. But trust me, your therapist is not a mind reader. They can’t help you if you’re dishonest about what’s happening.

    Doing the hard work also means facing your fears and confronting your demons. It means digging deep and getting to the root of your issues, even if it’s uncomfortable or painful. It means challenging your negative thought patterns and beliefs and working to change them. It means taking responsibility for your actions and making changes where necessary.

    But here’s the thing – doing the hard work in therapy is not always easy. In fact, it can be downright challenging and exhausting at times. It requires a lot of self-reflection, introspection, and self-awareness. It means stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things. It means being vulnerable and open to change.

    But let me tell you, the hard work is worth it. Because when you put in the effort and really commit to therapy, you’ll start to see positive changes in your life. You’ll start to feel more in control of your emotions and behaviors. You’ll start to develop healthier coping mechanisms and strategies for dealing with stress and anxiety. You’ll start to build stronger relationships with others and with yourself.

    So, the next time you find yourself in therapy and feeling like it’s an endless run on the treadmill, remember that doing the hard work is essential for growth and healing. Embrace the discomfort, push yourself outside your comfort zone, and trust the process. Ultimately, all your hard work will pay off, and you’ll be on your way to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

    -🦩

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  • Boundaries Over Blood

    June 20th, 2024

    Being related by blood is a powerful bond that can create a sense of loyalty and connection among family members.

    However, this bond does not give anyone the right to disrespect or mistreat you.

    It is important to remember that you deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of your familial ties.

    It can be challenging to stand up to family members who are disrespectful or abusive, especially if they are older or hold a position of authority within the family.

    It is essential to remember that you have the right to set boundaries and stand up for yourself, even when it comes to your blood relatives.

    One common misconception is that you are obligated to put up with disrespect from family members because they are your blood relatives. This is simply not true. Just because someone is biologically related to you does not give them the right to mistreat you or disrespect you in any way.

    Setting healthy boundaries with disrespectful family members can be challenging, but it is necessary for your well-being and mental health. It is important to assert yourself and communicate your boundaries clearly and assertively. This may involve having difficult conversations with family members and clearly stating what behavior is unacceptable to you. This also may include walking away for the sake of your peace.

    Seeking support from friends, therapists, or support groups can help deal with disrespectful family members. You do not have to face this alone, and reaching out for support can help you navigate complex family dynamics and set healthy boundaries.

    You deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.

    Your well-being and mental health are crucial, and it is okay to prioritize yourself and your happiness.

    -🦩

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  • Apologies

    June 17th, 2024

    In today’s fast-paced society, getting caught up in our lives and unintentionally hurting those around us can be easy. Whether through a careless comment, a thoughtless action, or simply not being present enough for our loved ones, we may find ourselves in a situation where we need to seek forgiveness from those who matter to us. However, it’s not just about saying “I’m sorry” – it’s about genuinely changing our behavior authentically.

    Authentically changing one’s behavior requires deep introspection and a strong desire to improve oneself. It’s about acknowledging our mistakes and taking steps to make things right. This process may not be easy, but the rewards of genuine forgiveness and strengthened relationships are invaluable.

    Taking ownership of our actions and their consequences is essential. When seeking forgiveness, it’s crucial to recognize and accept responsibility for our actions without making excuses or blaming others. This action shows sincerity and a genuine desire to make amends.

    Next, it’s essential to listen and understand the impact of our actions on the other person. Empathy plays a significant role in the process of authentic change. Putting ourselves in the other person’s shoes allows us to see things from their perspective and better understand how our behavior has affected them. This behavioral shift can help us make a genuine effort to fix the situation and avoid repeating the same mistakes in the future.

    Genuine change also requires a conscious effort to modify our behavior. It’s not enough to apologize and move on; we must actively improve ourselves. This process may involve seeking professional help, attending therapy, or changing daily routines. By consistently trying to change our ways, we can show the other person that we are genuinely dedicated to improving ourselves.
    It’s also crucial to respect the pace at which the other person is willing to forgive. Forgiveness is a journey, and it takes time for wounds to heal. Recognizing and accepting that the other person may need time and space to come to terms with what has happened is essential. It’s not about rushing the process but instead being patient and understanding.

    In addition to seeking forgiveness from those who matter, it’s also important to forgive ourselves. Often, we can be our harshest critic, and self-forgiveness is an essential step towards authentic change. We must also learn to be kind to ourselves and recognize that we are human and that making mistakes is a part of our growth and development.

    To be authentically forgiven by those who matter, genuine change is essential. It’s a process that involves acknowledging our mistakes, taking responsibility, empathizing with the other person, actively working on ourselves, and being patient. It may not be an easy journey, but the rewards of stronger relationships and inner growth are worth it. Remember, it’s never too late to make a positive change and become the best version of ourselves.

    -🦩

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  • Fragility

    June 14th, 2024

    In a world that often values toughness and resilience above all else, it can be easy to feel like being fragile is a weakness. We are told to toughen up, to put on a brave face, and never to show any signs of vulnerability. But the truth is, being fragile and robust simultaneously is possible. It is a powerful combination that can lead to incredible growth and resilience.

    Being fragile means being sensitive, delicate, and easily broken. It means feeling deeply, caring intensely, and being affected by the world around us. It means being open to the pain and suffering of others and being willing to let our own emotions show. It means being human.

    At the same time, being assertive means being resilient, determined, and unwavering in adversity. It means having the courage to stand up for what is right, to face our fears head-on, and to keep moving forward even when the odds are stacked against us. It means being a warrior.

    So, how can we be both fragile and robust simultaneously? It starts with embracing our vulnerabilities and recognizing that they are not weaknesses but sources of strength. When we feel deeply and are affected by the world around us, we become more empathetic, compassionate, and connected to those around us. Our fragility becomes a source of power, not a liability.

    At the same time, when we tap into our inner strength and resilience, we can face challenges head-on and emerge stronger on the other side. We learn to trust in our abilities, to believe in ourselves, and never to give up, no matter how difficult the road may be. Our strength becomes a beacon of hope, guiding us through even the darkest times.

    Being fragile and robust simultaneously is not about being perfect or invincible. It is about being honest, authentic, and genuine to ourselves. It is about embracing our vulnerabilities and using them as a power source. It is about tapping into our inner strength and resilience and using it to overcome any obstacles that come our way.

    Let us embrace our fragility and strength, for they are two sides of the same coin. Let us allow ourselves to feel deeply, to care intensely, and to be affected by the world around us. Let us stand tall in the face of adversity, to keep moving forward, and to never give up. Let us be fragile and robust simultaneously, for in that delicate balance lies our true power.

    -🦩

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  • What is Devotion?

    June 11th, 2024
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    Is devotion unconditional love?

    Have you ever truly been in love with another soul that made your heart stop?

    The very thought of it brings warmth to one’s heart and a smile to one’s face. But amidst the chaotic world we live in, where love seems conditional and constantly tested, is it possible to love unconditionally?

    I firmly believe that it is, and I urge you to consider why embracing unconditional love is not just a choice but a necessity.

    It is essential to understand what unconditional love truly means. It is a love that knows no boundaries, limitations, or expectations. It is a love not based on what someone can give or do for us but simply on who they are.

    It is a love that remains unwavering, even when the one we love falls short or makes mistakes.

    Now, you may be thinking, how is loving someone unconditionally practical in our day-to-day lives?

    The truth is, it may not be easy, but it is worth it.

    Unconditional love can transform relationships, heal wounds, and bring immense joy and fulfillment to both the giver and receiver. When we love someone without conditions, we free ourselves from constantly expecting something in return. We love for the sake of love, which is a liberating feeling.

    Unconditional love teaches us to embrace imperfections and flaws. In a world where perfection is constantly glorified, unconditional love reminds us that our imperfections make us unique and lovable.

    By loving someone unconditionally, we accept them for who they are and not for who we want them to be. It allows us to see people beyond their mistakes and shortcomings and instead focus on their strengths and genuine goodness.

    But let’s not forget the most fundamental reason unconditional love is crucial – it promotes empathy and compassion.

    When we love without conditions, we put ourselves in someone else’s shoes and try to understand their perspective. We become more forgiving, patient, and understanding towards others.

    In a time where the world desperately needs more empathy and kindness, unconditional love is a powerful tool in making this a reality.

    Now, I am not saying that unconditional love means tolerating toxic behavior or staying in unhealthy relationships.

    It simply means choosing to love someone, flaws and all, and setting healthy boundaries for ourselves.

    It also means extending the same level of compassion and empathy to ourselves, as we often forget to love ourselves unconditionally.

    Unconditional love may seem like a romanticized notion, but it is a concept that can change our world for the better. It starts with everyone consciously choosing love without conditions – in our relationships, our communities, and towards ourselves.

    So, I urge you to embrace unconditional love and see the magic it can bring into your life and the lives of those around you.

    -🦩

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  • Hyper Independence

    June 7th, 2024
    Photo Credit: LHJ

    Hey there, fellow independent souls! I want to take some time to talk about a concept that may resonate with many of you – hyper-independence.

    As humans, we are naturally inclined to strive for independence, self-reliance, and taking care of ourselves. However, have you ever taken it to the extreme? This is where hyper-independence comes into play.

    What is hyper-independence? It occurs when we take our independence to the extreme, almost becoming obsessed with it. We push ourselves to do everything on our own, to the extent that we may even reject help or support from others. Does this sound familiar? Let’s explore why this may not be a positive mindset after all.

    First off, being independent is an excellent quality to have. It means we can make our own decisions, care for ourselves, and not rely on others for our well-being. However, when we become hyper-independent, we start to isolate ourselves from others and reject any form of assistance. This can lead to loneliness and burnout as we carry the weight of everything on our shoulders.

    Not only that, but hyper-independence can also hinder our personal growth. When we reject help or support from others, we miss opportunities to learn from different perspectives and experiences. We limit ourselves to only our knowledge and abilities, which may not be enough to reach our full potential.

    Furthermore, constantly striving for extreme independence can also result in a fear of vulnerability. When accustomed to self-sufficiency, we may be reluctant to lower our defenses and seek assistance when necessary. This fear of vulnerability can impede our ability to establish profound and meaningful connections with others, hurting our emotional well-being.

    Now, this is not to say that being independent is a bad thing. It’s essential to have a healthy level of independence to care for ourselves and know when to ask for help.

    One method is to cultivate self-awareness. Take a step back and reflect on your actions and thought patterns.

    Are you consistently turning down help or support from others?

    Do you feel like you have to handle everything by yourself?

    Now, be honest; there is no judgment.

    We all have reasons behind our behavior. Once you recognize these patterns, it becomes easier to make an effort to modify them consciously. This takes time. The Eiffel Tower wasn’t built in a day, so give yourself some grace. Taking the time to get to the root cause and deciding to change shows personal growth.

    Start small.

    Instead of attempting to handle everything yourself, begin by seeking help with a small task. This can help boost your confidence in seeking assistance and overcome the fear of vulnerability.

    It is also essential to have a supportive network around you. Surround yourself with people who genuinely care for your well-being. They can offer different perspectives and support you need when you feel overwhelmed or burnt out.

    Independence is an excellent quality, but it can negatively affect our emotional well-being and personal growth when taken to the extreme. It’s important to remember that asking for help or support from others is okay.

    Let’s work on breaking out of the hyper-independent mindset and learning to strike a healthy balance because we all need some help from our friends.

    -🦩

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