Feeling Excluded? How to Shine as Your Authentic Self!

Tired of shrinking to fit in? Feeling like a square peg in a round hole? These common issues can make us feel as if we'll never truly belong. We crave inclusion for many reasons. On an evolutionary level, instinct drives us to be part of a pack because we're more likely to survive. And belonging to a group of like-minded people can foster self-esteem while also reducing loneliness and anxiety. Yet, in real life, many people--from childhood forward--struggle with finding or fitting into a group that offers a reassuring sense of inclusion. And this can foster feelings of being unwanted, unworthy, and unloved. So today, we're joined by a highly skilled guest, Dr. JJ Kelly, who has a knack for helping others embrace their lovable inner misfit, grow strong, and shine.

Topics discussed include emotional intelligence, emotions, feelings, DBT, dialectical behavioral therapy, self-love, self-like, inclusion, bullying, outsider, misfit, neurolinguistics, genuine self, authenticity, internal validation, external validation, parenting contracts, consequences, projection, values, pride, self-growth, personal evolution, parenting, children, emotional bullying, unresolved trauma, and transformation.

Please note that this episode contains sensitive material; listener discretion is advised.

Emergency Assistance Details: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911," "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline), or SAMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). As applicable, additional resources may be provided in the show notes.

Non-Emergency Online Mental Health Information: https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/

and https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No expert is offering medical or psychological direction or advice; the content is purely informational in nature. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any new regimen or procedure.

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