As we proceed to prioritize the unique concept of mental beauty, episode 115 of the Dare To Share Your Untold Story Podcast, Mental Beauty Segments, The Cost of Always Being Strong: Navigating Emotional Labour and Compassion Fatigue. In relation to this episode topic the prior episode 54 has been selected for further exploration and deeper dive. In episode 54, titled “She Smiles, She Empowers, While Simultaneously Grieving & Mourning”, with guest, Saidat Abari.

Her journey is a profound example of how embracing vulnerability and allowing ourselves to grieve can lead to deeper healing and growth. Often, we believe that resilience is about powering through life’s challenges without pause. But Saidat reminds us that resilience can also mean slowing down, feeling our emotions fully, and finding the courage to share our pain. Her story speaks to the heart of what we call Mental Beauty—redefining strength and recognizing that true empowerment comes from integrating both our light and shadow. Saidat’s willingness to share her untold story sheds light on a crucial truth: even those who radiate positivity and strength need space to release, reflect, and renew. Saidat’s Mental Beauty Rethink challenges us to embrace every part of our emotional journey. Her headline, “Powerful Woman Feels Weak”, is a poignant reminder that strength and vulnerability coexist. Even someone known as the “happiness infuser” can carry deep, unspoken pain. But as Saidat reflects, healing begins with giving herself permission to feel. She’s learning to get “comfortably uncomfortable” with sharing her grief, a process that’s foreign yet deeply necessary.

3 Practical ‘Mental Beauty Tips’ inspired by Episode 115:

1. Acknowledge Your Full Range of Emotions: Resilience isn’t about pushing through or ignoring difficult emotions; it’s about allowing yourself to experience them fully. Take time to recognize and validate your feelings, even the uncomfortable ones. Embracing your vulnerability creates space for true inner strength to grow.
2. Release Self-Imposed Expectations: Notice where you may be placing unrealistic expectations on yourself to always appear strong or positive. Give yourself permission to let go of these pressures. Resilience includes self-compassion and understanding that you don’t need to have it all together all the time.
3. Find Safe Spaces for Authentic Expression: Surround yourself with people and environments where you feel safe to be your genuine self. This could be through therapy, supportive friendships, or personal reflection practices. These spaces allow you to explore your emotions freely and strengthen the connection to your true, resilient self.

Episode 115 Takeaway:

A self-care practice called ‘Mindful Self-Compassion Journaling’:

• It involves setting aside a few minutes each day to write down your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Start by reflecting on any challenges or difficult feelings you’ve experienced, allowing yourself to acknowledge them openly.

• Then, shift your focus to self-compassion by writing supportive and kind responses to your inner struggles, as if you were speaking to a dear friend.

• Finally, note one or two strengths or positive qualities that helped you navigate these experiences, even if it’s simply the courage to reflect. This process not only promotes self-acceptance but also strengthens resilience by fostering a gentle, understanding relationship with yourself.

Of course, remember, if you want to share something amazing that you would like to have a shout out for on your behalf, just send an e-mail to [email protected].

Spread Mental Beauty, Stop the Stigma!