‘Sometimes one feels freer speaking to a stranger than to people one knows. Why is that?”
“Probably because a stranger sees us the way we are, not as he wishes to think we are.’
― Carlos Ruiz Zafón, The Shadow of the Wind
In my second book, which is definitely coming out this year! I share about the many times I felt pressured to meet the expectations of others, instead of living in my truth. It was only when I faced my fears and questioned the beliefs I had about myself, that I allowed my authenticity to emerge.
When we feel comfortable living in our authentic truth, we stop being the person that everyone else wants us to be. However, this is a choice. And often it’s not until we are exhausted or overwhelmed from living out this story, that we decide it is time to be free.
One of the ways that helped me awaken my truth, was to question my intentions and actions in life.
- Why are you doing this?
- Are you doing this because it feels right or because you think you have to?
- What motivates you to act in this way?
- Are you rewarded or acknowledged for this behavior?
- Where do you feel most comfortable being you?
Questions open up our energy and allow us to be honest with ourselves. In doing so, we become clear about who we are and what we should be doing in life. In this space, we allow our authentic nature to awaken.
LIVING IN THIS MOMENT 
Well said dear lady, we do indeed get tested in so many ways. Until we decide we’ve had enough and break free of those self made cages 😀 ❤️ 🙏🏽 🦋
So true. It is a decision we all need to make. Thanks Mark 🙂
Why are you doing this? It all starts there, doesn’t it???
It’s exactly where it starts my friend ☺️
that quote is so incredibly true – no expectations from the stranger, just seeing us as we are
I agree Beth it is a powerful quote.
Karen, I really appreciate those questions. I look forward to reading your book as soon as it’s available. Your first one was so powerful in your honesty and truth about your experience, I can only imagine how great the next one will be. 🙏🏻💖
Thank you Carrie. I am excited to share it 💚💕
Very timely post for me, Karen, as I often push myself hard trying to please clients in the spring and end up overdoing it. Those questions are good ones. I need to pay attention to that inner voice urging me to keep the balance! 🙂
This is a common feeling Eliza and when we give ourselves permission to question, listen and nurture, everyone benefits 🌸🌼🌻🌼🌺
❤
A wise post, Karen. I’m trying to follow the advice but come up short too often.
I found that once I understood the fears behind why I did what I do, and worked and healed those first; I learned to be more authentic and free. Hope that helps Jennifer 💕💚
I believe much of it has to do with my physical limitations with what we refer to as an “invisible illness.” Because it may appear that I should be able to take on what the next person can, it makes me feel that I may be perceived as inadequate/lazy/less than. I know I have to stop caring what others think but it isn’t easy. Thanks, Karen. xo
Thank you so much for sharing Jennifer. I agree, its definitely not easy, but I promise it’s possible. 💚💕😊
❤️
I look forward to that bookl! Glad you’re continuing to share your wisdom:).
Thanks Kristine 💚💕
Great Karen, and much success with the new book.
Before one acts upon a thought, one should pause in prudent contemplation. In which your 5 questions are well placed.
-Alan
Thank you Alan. It’s always great to have you here 🙏🏻😊
Great message Karen, and so true. Congrats for your new book also when it emerges. I connect with your take on life as a fellow counsellor and life skill teacher. Much of our dysfunctional aspects and thoughts stem from what we have been led to believe about ourselves from others and a true picture is often seen better by a stranger, and hence why counselors are warned against dual relationships with clients, For years as a young adult I wondered why so many people would share their hearts with me, often they would say “I have never told anyone this before and I don’t know why I am telling you, I think I trust you.” and they would feel better having shared it, often very personal things. I love you honesty and the help you bring in your blog posts.
Thanks Ashley. I can relate to your experiences with others and I am happy to hear about the difference you are making in the world! It’s a privilege to guide others to find their highest potential 🤗
Karen, i dont know if this is a pure coincidence or not. A few years back i started writing something in the similar lines , in my mother tongue. I was thinking to publish it as a book that time.. but somehow, I didn’t take it up further or lost in between.. actually all those questions which you have added here made me wonder as my scribbles were also in the similar lines.. in fact they were the headings of each of my chapters.. each chapters were my real experiences too..
Wow Akhila that’s amazing. Maybe it’s a sign you that you do publish your original work and finding this reminds you to consider it. I love how life nudges is along on the right path 😊💚
Yes Karen, i too believe in signs from the universe
Truth be told. I appreciate what you shared and also your questions. ❤️☮️
Thanks Ali 🤗💕🤗