Today begins a blog series on the subject of creating a life for yourself which feels authentic through connection. The first connection that must be created is connection with your true self. Once you know who that real you inside is, what you feel, what you like, what you dislike, and what nurtures your soul, you can then cultivate deep and meaningful connection with other important people in your life. When you are out of touch with your true self you're unable to connect with others from a place of authenticity.
I know this, because I have done this work to connect with my most authentic inner self and it has created deeper and more meaningful relationships with my children, my husband, friends, family members, colleagues and clients. Cultivating authenticity is an ongoing practice, so I am not "finished," but once you get started it feels great to keep it up. It's kind of like exercising in that way. Difficult to start, but worthwhile. I've written previously about my struggle to find and connect with my most authentic self. You can read here about my (still ongoing) struggle with perfectionism. I have also written about the tendency that many of us have to try to put together a life which looks "perfect" on the outside as a way of rewriting the story of our unhappy childhood. Does this sound familiar?
I now understand that accepting the parts of myself that I'm less than proud of means allowing myself to be vulnerable - something I used to hate and avoid as much as possible. My perspective on that changed when I read "The Gifts of Imperfection," by Brené Brown, Ph.D. LMSW. I love this book and I frequently recommend it to my clients.
If you're unfamiliar with Brené Brown, check out her TED Talk, which is one of the most viewed. Millions of people (including me) have found her description of vulnerability as a courageous act to be inspirational. What do you think?
This series will review the Guideposts to Wholehearted Living from "The Gifts of Imperfection." I hope you will enjoy exploring these along with me through the series.
If you're ready to go deeper, maybe a workshop is right for you. I'm also offering only one intensive weekend in 2015. Click the link for detailed information.
Contact me at (443) 510-1048 or via e-mail at laura@laurareaganlcswc.com for more information on the Workshop or Retreat, or how you can connect with your true self in individual therapy. I'd love to hear from you!