Why It’s Okay to Show Your Struggles
Introduction
Welcome to a transformative journey where we unearth the layers of curated perfection often presented on social media and embrace the raw, unfiltered reality of personal growth. In Episode 77 of the One Girl Travel Podcast, Alessia Tenebrousso shares her heartfelt struggle with self-doubt, the pressure of maintaining a perfect facade, and finding ways to prioritize personal growth and self-commitment.
Highlight Reel vs. Real Life: The Challenge of Social Media
The Illusion of Perfection
In the age of social media, we often find ourselves scrolling through highlight reels of other people’s lives, flooded with joy, celebrations, and achievements. This curated narrative can create a sense of inadequacy and fuel self-doubt, making us believe that we must also maintain an immaculate facade. Alessia shares her personal struggle with this phenomenon, highlighting how it feels inauthentic to focus solely on the good times while hiding the struggles.
The Importance of Authenticity
Alessia emphasizes the significance of being honest with oneself and one’s audience. Authenticity fosters relatability and connection, breaking down the barriers of idealized perfection. She realized the necessity of sharing not just the successes, but also the challenges, to present a more holistic and truthful narrative. This approach helps in creating a supportive and understanding community where everyone can relate and support each other through their journeys.
The Struggle with Self-Image and Personal Change
Facing Changes in One’s Self-Image
As time goes by, our self-image and bodies change. Alessia opens up about a poignant moment of looking in the mirror and not recognizing herself, from new lines and wrinkles to weight gain and physical discomfort. These changes can be unsettling, especially when accompanied by significant life transitions such as becoming a full-time entrepreneur or entering a new relationship.
Overcoming the Spiral of Self-Doubt
It’s easy to spiral into self-doubt and sadness, questioning why things seem to work out for others but not for oneself. Alessia shares her journey through this emotional maze and the realization that her feelings of inadequacy were unwarranted. She recognizes that change, though uncomfortable, is a part of growth and is essential for achieving personal goals.
“Then I realized
there’s nothing wrong with me.
This is who I am, and if I want to make a change,
I’m capable of making a change,
but it’s not going to be comfortable…”
The Power of Self-Commitment
Difference Between Being Kind to Yourself and Making Excuses
Through a conversation with her therapist, Alessia learned an important distinction: being kind to oneself versus making excuses. Being kind means acknowledging one’s efforts and being understanding when not all goals are met. Making excuses, however, involves not making an effort or disregarding one’s commitments due to a lack of motivation.
The Challenge of Self-Priority
Many of us struggle with maintaining commitments to ourselves while we effortlessly fulfill obligations to others. Alessia addresses a common scenario: adhering to commitments made to others but constantly pushing back or ignoring personal goals. She urges us to recognize our worth and prioritize self-commitment, emphasizing that taking care of oneself is crucial for being able to support others effectively.
Practical Steps for Prioritizing Yourself
- Identify What You Want to Do: Reflect on what activities or goals are important to you.
- Write It Down: Make a list of these goals and tasks. Seeing them in writing can make them feel more tangible and achievable.
- Schedule Your Priorities: Allocate specific times for these activities. Treat them as non-negotiable appointments with yourself.
- Be Flexible but Committed: If you can’t complete a task, simply move it to the next day. Ensure it stays visible as a reminder of what’s important to you.
- Use Reward Systems Wisely: Shift the focus of rewards from external incentives to internal satisfaction like improved health and happiness.
Moving Forward with a Renewed Perspective
Encouragement for Action
With the start of a new season, Alessia encourages us to take the plunge into new ventures and experiences. Whether it’s traveling solo, visiting a local farmer’s market, or any other personal goal, now is the time to prioritize these dreams.
Authenticity in Personal and Professional Life
Alessia is committed to sharing her authentic journey with her audience, emphasizing that no one’s life is perfect, and struggles are universal. By focusing on realistic, achievable steps and maintaining authenticity, we can collectively work towards bettering ourselves and supporting one another.
Conclusion
In a world that often values curated perfection, embracing authenticity and prioritizing self-commitment can be revolutionary acts of self-care. Alessia’s candid sharing in this episode serves as a reminder that growth lies in facing discomfort and valuing oneself enough to stick to personal commitments. As we embark on this journey together, let us hold ourselves accountable, be kind, and strive towards becoming the best versions of ourselves.
