Episode 13: Shame & Sadness & Letting Go

Shame: a painful emotion caused by consciousness of guilt, shortcoming, or impropriety.   A simple eleven word definition of one of the most powerful emotions out there.  We all know what shame feels like.  We all know that sinking feeling in our gut when we have fallen short of the bar we have set for ourselves.  Not a single person is immune to the feeling of shame, or the subsequent sadness and stress that accompanies it.  When you are unhappy with yourself, or with your spot in life, the shame can be overwhelming.  Shame can lead to self loathing, disgust, and anger.  It can turn you into your own worst enemy.  This feeling can overshadow every other element of life. When we recognize the need for change, the need to better ourselves, it is often born out of a sense of discomfort.  We are seeing elements in ourselves that we do not like, and are no longer happy about.  We recognize that we want a better life, and set out to make that happen.  Shame stands in the way.  We become so miserable and unhappy with our position, that we engage in unhealthy coping skills, which of course circle us back into the cycle of being miserable.  It is a brutal cycle, destined to continue without end unless we make the choice to break it. In this discussion, I explore the roots of shame and the roots of sadness.  I dive into all the different ways these feelings can affect us, especially as we aim to move forward in life.  I share my reflections of my life...and my sadness and discontent of the person I used to be.  Together, we explore how this shame became the fuel to propel myself into a new beginning.  I talk about strategies to rise above the pain and sadness, and to finally start letting it go. Finally, I encourage each and every listener to learn how to start honoring their former selves.  I share ways that I learned how to appreciate and love the person I used to be.  Letting go of the shame and learning to look at the qualities I have always had has helped me appreciate just how far I have come.  Today, I offer you my insight into this time, in the hope that you, as well, may learn to let go of your shame. As always, thanks for listening and being a part of this journey with me!