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In my work, I get the privilege of connecting with people from all walks of life. Each day, I interact with different personalities, backgrounds, and stories. And I meet them in spaces that mean the world to me, because my purpose and passion is to help people work toward a goal, overcome something, or maybe see something about themselves they hadn’t noticed before. It’s an incredible feeling to be part of that journey, to support them as they gain insight and empowerment. But sometimes, especially in times like these, the work isn’t just about the coaching — it’s also about navigating a world where everyone holds different, often intense, views and emotions.I don’t go out of my way to discuss politics, religion, or other hot-button issues with my clients. My focus is on what they need, what they want to work through. But today, like many days in this charged world, I’ve seen people emotionally affected by the election and the state of our society. And as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and as someone who deeply cares about people, it’s challenging to witness these divides and feel that tension. Sometimes, my initial instinct is to want to shut down anyone who doesn’t see things the way I do. But that’s not how I operate.Maybe it’s my background in sociology, but I genuinely believe that connecting with people on a human level can create real change. Shutting others out may give us temporary relief, but ultimately, it creates more division. And I have to ask myself: what do I want out of this? Am I here to build walls, or am I here to open up dialogues that could lead to understanding, compassion, and maybe even change?I’ve seen the power of storytelling, whether it’s on this blog, in conversations with clients, or even in my own life. Stories can inspire us, challenge us, and make us reconsider things we thought we knew. When we hear about someone else’s struggles, dreams, or fears, it touches something inside us. We feel empathy. And here’s the powerful thing: when we feel strong emotion and empathy, it doesn’t just change our minds; it can actually change our brains.When we connect emotionally with someone else’s experience, our brains release chemicals like oxytocin, which helps us bond and feel empathy. This bonding doesn’t just feel good — it can actually rewire our neural pathways. When we consistently engage with others' perspectives and connect emotionally, our brain creates new patterns, making it easier to be empathetic and open-minded in the future. It’s like strengthening a muscle; over time, we’re better able to listen and consider other viewpoints, sometimes even without realizing it.Imagine if we all took a moment to listen to someone on the “other side.” What if instead of dismissing them, we asked questions? We might find that much of what drives our beliefs is rooted in personal fears or experiences. On both sides, there’s a lot of misunderstanding and assumptions, and that can lead to fear. But in the middle of these assumptions and fears, there’s space for growth if we’re open to it.So, yes, today I’m feeling a little torn. On one hand, I’m disappointed in how divided we can be. But on the other, I’m hopeful that there’s still room for connection and for people to surprise us. We might not have control over election outcomes, but we can control how we react. If you’re passionate about a cause, use your voice. Advocate, educate, show up, and don’t underestimate the power of simply sharing your story. You never know who might listen, or who might start seeing things from a fresh perspective.For those of you who may have voted differently from your friends or family, this is an opportunity, too. If you support someone’s right to feel safe, seen, and respected, speak up. It’s okay to stand with your beliefs while still supporting others in areas that matter to them. We can be Republicans, Democrats, independents, or anywhere in between, and still unite in our humanity. This is how change begins — by choosing connection over division, by building bridges instead of walls.I think we all ultimately want to live in a world where people understand and respect each other. And if we keep choosing to shut down, we’ll never get there. I don’t know about you, but that’s a future I don’t want to be part of. So here’s to keeping the door open, to listening, and to staying hopeful. We’re in this together, whether we like it or not, and I’d rather it be a world where we find a way forward together.

Finding Connection and Perspective in Divisive Times

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As the new year approaches, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about ways to invest in yourself. Personal growth doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag; it can be as simple as incorporating a few enriching habits into your daily life. Here are some empowering and budget-friendly ways to kick off a new year focused on growth and fulfillment.1. Explore the Power of Reading Books provide a window into new perspectives, ideas, and inspirations. If you’re looking to make personal growth a priority in the coming year, consider creating a reading list to guide you. Local libraries and free online resources offer countless titles on personal development, psychology, spirituality, and even fiction that broadens your outlook—all at no cost. If you don't like to read on your own, we have a free book club Monday-Friday at 9am EST. <a data-mce-href="https://www.tiktok.com/@jaimemessina" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@jaimemessina">live on TikTok</a>. We are currently reading <a data-mce-href="https://amzn.to/48I2RFN" href="https://amzn.to/48I2RFN">How to Break The Habit of Being Yourself by Dr. Joe Dispenza</a>.&nbsp;2. Tune into Podcasts Podcasts are an accessible and convenient way to gain knowledge, find inspiration, and explore new ideas. Look for podcasts that align with your personal growth goals, whether it’s building confidence, fostering resilience, or exploring mindfulness. You can listen while commuting, working out, or doing household chores, making it easy to incorporate personal development into your routine.&nbsp;If you'd like to listen to The Stories We Tell Podcast, <a data-mce-href="https://open.spotify.com/show/62RVFE3Ypl89PVbfTKUngG?si=1EaS1r3zRM-PK1OmHP01-Q" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/62RVFE3Ypl89PVbfTKUngG?si=1EaS1r3zRM-PK1OmHP01-Q">Click Here!</a>&nbsp;3. Leverage Online Learning If you’re ready to dive into new skills or subjects, free online courses are an incredible resource. Websites like Coursera, Khan Academy, and edX provide free courses on a variety of topics. You can also find specialized growth-focused content on platforms like YouTube. Using the new year as motivation, try exploring subjects that have always intrigued you—learning at your own pace and for free.4. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools for inner growth. Apps like Insight Timer, Smiling Mind, and even YouTube offer free guided meditations and mindfulness exercises that can help you build a daily practice. Taking just a few minutes a day to quiet your mind can lead to greater clarity, inner peace, and resilience.5. Start Journaling Journaling can be one of the most transformative tools in your personal growth journey. The new year is a great time to begin a daily or weekly practice, using your journal to set intentions, process emotions, and track your progress. Not only is it free, but it also helps you gain valuable insights into your thoughts and goals.6. Embrace Nature Spending time in nature is rejuvenating and helps you reconnect with yourself. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike, or simply sitting outside, nature provides a calming environment for reflection and clarity. Make it a goal in the new year to spend more time outdoors as part of your growth journey.7. Cultivate Gratitude A daily gratitude practice can transform your outlook and help you focus on the positive aspects of life. Start a gratitude journal or set aside a few minutes each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for. This small habit can make a big difference, helping you approach each day with a more positive mindset.8. Volunteer Your Time Volunteering is a wonderful way to give back while also growing personally. By dedicating time to a cause you care about, you’ll meet new people, develop new skills, and gain a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Find a local organization or online volunteer opportunity that resonates with you, and make it a part of your new year’s journey.9. Connect with Like-Minded Individuals Surrounding yourself with people who are also focused on growth can be incredibly inspiring and motivating. Seek out online communities, social media groups, or local meetups that share your goals. Engaging with others on a similar path can foster a sense of accountability and provide a supportive network.10. Set Intentional Goals The start of a new year is an ideal time to set meaningful, achievable goals. Take some time to think about what you want to accomplish in the coming months, then break those goals into small, manageable steps. Setting intentional goals gives you direction and helps keep you focused on what matters most.There are countless ways to invest in yourself without financial strain. By incorporating some of these strategies into your life, you can set a strong foundation for growth in the new year.If you’re looking for a more structured way to get started and would like to build confidence and jumpstart your personal growth journey, consider joining my upcoming <a data-mce-href="https://jaimecoaches.com/mastermind" href="https://jaimecoaches.com/mastermind">10-Day "Build Your Confidence" Mastermind</a>. It’s a low-cost program that provides guidance, tools, and community support to help you make this year your most confident and empowering one yet.<a data-mce-href="https://jaimecoaches.com/mastermind" href="https://jaimecoaches.com/mastermind">Learn More About The 10-Day Build Your Confidence Mastermind Here!&nbsp;</a>Here’s to a year filled with growth, connection, and possibility! &nbsp; &nbsp;

Embracing Personal Growth Without Breaking the Bank: A Guide to Investing in Yourself for the New Year

We all have those moments where self-doubt creeps in, or we find ourselves held back by beliefs that feel like concrete walls. What if those walls were just illusions, built up over time? Breaking down these limiting beliefs and stepping into your confidence can open doors you didn’t even know were there. Here’s how building confidence and letting go of self-doubt can bring more fulfillment into your life—and a simple action you can take right now to get started.1. Create More Opportunities in Your Career Confidence is a game-changer in the workplace. When you believe in yourself, you’re more likely to step up for new challenges, speak up with ideas, and go for opportunities that push you forward. Busting through beliefs like “I’m not good enough” or “Someone else is better for this” frees you up to pursue promotions, new roles, or even start your own business.Quick Action: Write down three wins you’ve had at work recently and what strengths you used in each one. Keeping this list nearby can be a solid reminder of what you bring to the table.2. Build Deeper, More Authentic Relationships Limiting beliefs like “I’m not worthy of love” or “No one will understand the real me” make it easy to stay guarded, but that also blocks authentic connection. When you begin to let go of these beliefs, you’re more likely to show up as yourself, making space for relationships that are built on honesty and trust.Quick Action: Pick one person you want to feel closer to and reach out. Share something real with them, and let them see the authentic you.3. Elevate Your Health and Well-Being Self-confidence and self-care go hand-in-hand. When you let go of beliefs like “I don’t have time for myself” or “I’m not worthy of taking care of,” it gets easier to prioritize your health and mental well-being. Confident people are more likely to stick to wellness routines and seek support when they need it.Quick Action: Try adding one small self-care practice into your day—a five-minute stretch, a short meditation, or a few deep breaths. It’s about creating space for yourself, little by little.4. Become More Resilient Confidence is the foundation of resilience. Letting go of limiting beliefs like “I always mess up” or “I can’t handle this” gives you the strength to embrace challenges as growth opportunities. Over time, you’ll find that setbacks become less intimidating and even help you grow.Quick Action: Think back to a recent challenge you got through. Write down one lesson or skill you gained from that experience. You’re already stronger than you think.5. Find More Joy and Fulfillment Living without limiting beliefs lets you explore more of what life has to offer. When thoughts like “I’m not good enough to try this” or “I’ll just fail” start to fade, you open yourself up to new experiences and passions, bringing more joy and meaning into your life.Quick Action: What’s something you’ve wanted to try but felt hesitant about? Take the first step—whether it’s researching a class, signing up for something new, or just scheduling the time for it.&nbsp; Your One Simple Action to Start Building Confidence Right Now:Start a Confidence JournalEvery day, write down one thing you accomplished and one strength you showed. This practice will shift your focus from self-doubt to your achievements and strengths, helping you see your confidence grow bit by bit. It’s a small step with a big impact.<figure id="figure-yauob7sfuwm2uqzw4l"><img id="yauob7sfuwm2uqzw4l" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26KBozpFtY4KTk7RG8gVQ797uYlEyN7hcnMPrF5ov6rvWa72AByv6FIYfUefYC4l.jpg" alt="Woman's hand working in office with LGBT decor and accessories. Cultura LGBTQIA" title="Woman's hand working in office with LGBT decor and accessories. Cultura LGBTQIA" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26KBozpFtY4KTk7RG8gVQ797uYlEyN7hcnMPrF5ov6rvWa72AByv6FIYfUefYC4l.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Are you ready to break through your limiting beliefs, eliminate disempowering thoughts, and step into your confidence and self-love? Join us November 11th for the 10 Day Confidence Mastermind!&nbsp;<figure id="figure-hdulnf9cism2uqz9vm"><iframe id="hdulnf9cism2uqz9vm" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/haKvqtvng9A" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/haKvqtvng9A?si=DYgBAtl4W_etyASY" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/haKvqtvng9A" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>This group coaching experience designed to help you break through limiting beliefs, cultivate self-love, and elevate your confidence to new heights. Over the course of 10 days, you'll engage in powerful sessions that challenge old thought patterns, unlock your true potential, and foster a deeper connection with yourself. With the support of a like-minded community and guided exercises, you'll learn practical strategies to overcome self-doubt and embrace your authentic power. Get ready to step into a more empowered version of yourself and build the confidence you’ve always deserved!To learn more about the 10-Day Build Your Confidence Mastermind, <a data-mce-href="https://jaimecoaches.com/mastermind" href="https://jaimecoaches.com/mastermind">Click Here!&nbsp;</a>

5 Ways Building Confidence and Breaking Limiting Beliefs Can Transform Your Life

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Feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Tired of staring at your phone, hoping it’ll give you life advice? I’ve got a solution that comes with a wagging tail and a whole lot of love: fostering a dog. Seriously, if you want to boost your mental health, there’s nothing quite like bringing a furry little ball of joy into your home. I honestly didn't even know about this hack until I decided to foster Olivia last week.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-yymt2a883m186qc0i"><img id="yymt2a883m186qc0i" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1GTLdzj1UeMb1D73k4GfnVhqlKtBBQJCi7x8yCcCK2yHCQ1tJk31Ctpw2FsB0xRx.png" alt="two women sitting at a table looking at a computer screen" title="two women sitting at a table looking at a computer screen" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="35%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1GTLdzj1UeMb1D73k4GfnVhqlKtBBQJCi7x8yCcCK2yHCQ1tJk31Ctpw2FsB0xRx.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;"></figure>The moment a dog enters your life, something shifts. They don’t care if you’ve had a rough day or didn’t hit all your goals—they’re just thrilled to see you. Their excitement is contagious. You quickly realize that belly rubs and fetch sessions are way more effective than doomscrolling through social media. Plus, you get to laugh at their goofy antics, and laughter is pretty much a free form of therapy.Caring for a dog also gives you structure. You’ve got to get up and feed them, take them for walks, and give them all the attention they deserve (and demand). That routine can be a game-changer when life feels a bit chaotic. And the best part? You don’t need to commit forever to reap these benefits—fostering lets you enjoy the perks without a lifetime contract.How else does fostering boost your mental health?Instant Stress Relief You know that moment when you walk through the door, and everything from the day melts away? That’s what happens when a dog greets you like you’re the best thing that’s ever happened to them. They don’t care how rough your day was—they’re just excited you’re here. And that kind of pure joy? It’s contagious. Their enthusiasm, goofy antics, and endless cuddles work wonders at easing stress and lifting your mood.A Sense of Purpose When life feels overwhelming, having something (or someone) to care for can make a world of difference. Dogs thrive on routine, so suddenly, you’re up early to walk them, feeding them, and making sure they get the exercise and love they need. That structure gives your day a sense of purpose, which is a huge boost when you’re feeling a bit lost or anxious. Plus, knowing you’re helping a dog in need? That feels amazing.The Joy of Unconditional Love Dogs are masters of unconditional love. They don’t judge, they don’t hold grudges—they just want to be with you. Having that kind of companionship can help reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety. It’s like having your own personal cheerleader, one that never fails to make you smile.If this sounds like the kind of joy you could use in your life, why not take a step toward fostering a pet? <a data-mce-href="https://www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/" href="https://www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/">Heidi’s Legacy Dog Rescue</a> in Tampa is a fantastic local resource to connect with dogs in need of a temporary home. It’s an easy way to make a big impact on your own well-being and the life of a deserving dog. Ready to experience the boost for yourself? <a data-mce-href="https://www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt" href="https://www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt">Fill out the Foster Application here</a> and get started on your path to more joy and less stress. And remember, for more ways to improve your life and navigate your personal journey, you can always check out my coaching services at <a data-mce-href="https://jaimecoaches.com/jaime-messina----mindset---empowerment-coach--one-on-one-coaching" href="https://jaimecoaches.com/jaime-messina----mindset---empowerment-coach--one-on-one-coaching">Jaime Coaches</a>.Here’s to new furry friends and a happier you!

Fostering a Dog: A Mental Health Boost Wrapped in Fur

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Your inner child is that part of you that still carries the feelings, beliefs, and experiences from your childhood. This aspect of your psyche can often be hidden in your subconscious, influencing how you approach relationships, handle emotions, and make decisions. One of the most significant ways your inner child manifests is through your attachment style.Attachment styles are the patterns of behavior you exhibit in relationships, which stem from how your caregivers responded to your emotional needs in childhood. These styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized—can shape how you relate to others, especially in intimate or vulnerable situations. Understanding how your inner child connects to your attachment style is key to healing and transforming the way you experience relationships.The Four Attachment Styles and Your Inner Child Secure Attachment: If your caregivers were consistently responsive to your emotional needs as a child, you likely developed a secure attachment. This means your inner child felt safe and understood, and you grew up believing that others could be trusted to meet your needs. In adulthood, this leads to healthier, balanced relationships where you’re comfortable with intimacy and independence.Healing Focus: For those with secure attachment, healing your inner child may involve strengthening self-compassion, further nurturing your emotional needs, and reinforcing the positive patterns that already exist. This might include practicing gratitude and continuing to build healthy connections. Anxious Attachment: When caregivers were inconsistent—sometimes meeting your needs and other times not—your inner child may have learned to become hyper-vigilant and anxious about receiving love and attention. As a result, you may now fear abandonment, crave validation, and experience insecurity in relationships.Healing Focus: To heal an anxious attachment style, you’ll need to work with your inner child to cultivate a sense of safety and self-worth. Begin by offering your inner child reassurance that their needs will be met without constantly seeking external validation. Mindfulness, journaling, and practicing self-soothing techniques can help create inner security. Avoidant Attachment: If your caregivers were emotionally unavailable or dismissive of your needs, your inner child may have learned that it’s safer to rely only on yourself. This often leads to avoidant attachment, where intimacy feels threatening and vulnerability is uncomfortable. You may now struggle to connect deeply with others or shut down emotionally when faced with conflict.Healing Focus: Healing an avoidant attachment style involves reconnecting with your inner child and letting them know it’s okay to feel and express emotions. Acknowledge the deep fear of rejection or vulnerability, and gradually challenge the belief that emotional closeness is dangerous. This can be done through journaling, therapy, or practicing open communication in relationships. Disorganized Attachment: Children who experienced trauma, abuse, or chaotic caregiving often develop disorganized attachment. In this case, the inner child lives in a state of confusion, torn between a desire for connection and a fear of the people who are supposed to offer it. In adulthood, this can lead to erratic behaviors, fear of intimacy, and difficulty trusting others.Healing Focus: Healing disorganized attachment requires building a strong sense of safety for your inner child. Start by engaging in trauma-informed practices such as therapy, grounding exercises, and establishing clear, safe boundaries in relationships. Creating an environment of trust for your inner child helps release some of the confusion and fear that dominate this attachment style.<figure id="figure-0ffj8u8kusm0y9bh8k"><img id="0ffj8u8kusm0y9bh8k" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/623062974/photo/little-girl-in-white-dress-in-field-at-sunset.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=ED2nXRpchvANmq4XDK5G8y9N1vemAoP7Q-HvOELAOG8=" alt="Little girl in white dress in field at sunset" title="Little girl in white dress in field at sunset" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure> Steps to Heal Your Inner Child and Transform Your Attachment Style 1. Reconnect with Your Inner Child Healing your attachment style starts by getting in touch with your inner child. Journaling exercises, guided meditations, or visualizations can help you connect with this part of yourself. Imagine your younger self and ask what they need. How were they hurt? What do they long for? This will help you understand the origin of your attachment patterns.2. Reparent Yourself Your caregivers may not have met your emotional needs, but you can now give your inner child what they lacked. Practice "reparenting" by offering yourself the love, understanding, and safety that was missing. For example, if you had an anxious attachment, regularly remind yourself that you are safe and loved even when alone. This practice can gradually reshape your emotional responses.3. Practice Mindful Relationships Healing attachment styles doesn’t happen in isolation. As you work on your inner child, you’ll need to bring your new awareness into your relationships. Be mindful of when your inner child’s wounds are triggered. Instead of reacting from a place of fear or avoidance, try to respond with curiosity and compassion, both for yourself and the other person.4. Seek Support Inner child work can be intense and emotional, especially if you experienced significant trauma. Working with a therapist or coach can help guide you through the process. Group coaching, such as those found in inner child healing programs, can also be an excellent source of support as you begin to change the way you interact with others. Your attachment style is a direct reflection of your inner child’s experiences with emotional connection. Understanding and healing your inner child can help transform those attachment patterns, allowing you to create more secure, loving, and fulfilling relationships. By taking small steps—reconnecting, reparenting, and being mindful—you’ll heal old wounds and develop healthier relationships with both yourself and others.If you're on a journey of self-discovery, learning about your attachment style and your inner child is a powerful step toward greater inner peace and emotional well-being. Remember, the process takes time, but with patience and commitment, healing is always possible.<figure id="figure-jngatxl3a8m0y9a0np"><img id="jngatxl3a8m0y9a0np" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aSBr7HTuIGILVgoToE1JPGG3ZJUiOC6Xm8x7hdzE3eYzWuJwCIt8uSDqZE3K2tw.jpg" alt="woman in brown knit sweater holding brown ceramic cup" title="woman in brown knit sweater holding brown ceramic cup" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="60%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aSBr7HTuIGILVgoToE1JPGG3ZJUiOC6Xm8x7hdzE3eYzWuJwCIt8uSDqZE3K2tw.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;"></figure>On September 16th I am hosting a 12-Week group coaching program called Childhood Reclaimed: A Journey to Inner Peace that focuses on connecting with and healing your inner child. Are you ready to start connecting with and healing the little version of you so that they stop effecting your adult life?<a data-mce-href="https://jaimecoaches.com/childhoodreclaimed" href="https://jaimecoaches.com/childhoodreclaimed"> LEARN MORE HERE!</a>

Healing Your Inner Child: Understanding Its Connection to Attachment Styles

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Have you ever wondered why certain situations trigger you or why some patterns seem impossible to break? The answer might lie in a part of you that you don’t often think about—your inner child. This concept refers to the part of your subconscious that carries the emotions, memories, and experiences from your early years. Far from being just a memory, your inner child can have a significant impact on your adult life, shaping how you see yourself and interact with the world.5 Ways Your Inner Child Might Be Holding You Back 1. Fear of Rejection Remember that time as a kid when you weren’t picked for the team or when a friend didn’t want to play with you? These moments might seem trivial now, but they can leave deep emotional scars. If your inner child felt rejected, you might avoid situations where rejection is possible—like pursuing relationships or taking risks in your career. This fear can hold you back from fully engaging in life and seizing opportunities.2. Self-Doubt and Low Self-Esteem Were you criticized or not supported enough as a child? Those negative messages can turn into a lifetime of self-doubt. Your inner child might carry a narrative of “I’m not good enough,” which manifests in your adult life as perfectionism or an inability to celebrate your achievements. This constant self-doubt can prevent you from going after what you really want, making you feel like you don’t deserve success or happiness.3. Difficulty Trusting Others If your caregivers were inconsistent or betrayed your trust, your inner child might still be guarding against being hurt again. This can show up as difficulty trusting others in your adult life, keeping you from forming close, meaningful relationships. You might keep people at a distance or be overly suspicious, which only reinforces your loneliness and isolation.4. Avoidance of Conflict Did you grow up in a household where conflict was either explosive or avoided? Your inner child might have learned that confrontation is something to fear or evade at all costs. As an adult, this can translate into avoiding difficult conversations or not standing up for yourself. The result? Unresolved problems and resentment, whether in your personal relationships or at work.5. Fear of Failure Were you harshly criticized for your mistakes as a child? This can create a deep fear of failure that lingers into adulthood. You might avoid taking on challenges, procrastinate, or play it safe to avoid the possibility of failing. But this fear can stifle your potential, keeping you from achieving your goals and growing as a person.Breaking Free: One Small Step You Can Take Today If you recognize any of these patterns in yourself, know that you’re not alone—and more importantly, you can start to change them. One small but powerful step is to practice self-compassion. Begin by becoming aware of when these limiting beliefs pop up. Instead of criticizing yourself, try speaking to yourself with kindness, as you would to a friend. For example, if you catch yourself fearing failure, remind yourself, “It’s okay to make mistakes; I’m learning and growing.”Incorporate daily affirmations like “I am worthy of love and success” or “I trust myself and others” to rewire your inner dialogue. With consistent practice, self-compassion can help heal your inner child, allowing you to move past these limitations and live a more authentic and fulfilling life.Understanding how your inner child affects your adult life is a crucial step toward healing and personal growth. By addressing these deeply rooted patterns, you can break free from the limitations they impose and start living the life you truly deserve. So take that first step today—your inner child, and your future self, will thank you.<figure id="figure-kie5bp3dfcm0o5gtlf"><iframe id="kie5bp3dfcm0o5gtlf" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0PMC9VFqZ-E" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/0PMC9VFqZ-E?si=aGsZbfTD__egiDCw" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0PMC9VFqZ-E" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>Ready to start your healing journey?&nbsp;Have you noticed any of these patterns in your own life? What steps have you taken to overcome them?&nbsp;Join us for the upcoming group coaching program, <a data-mce-href="https://jaimecoaches.com/childhoodreclaimed" href="https://jaimecoaches.com/childhoodreclaimed">Childhood Reclaimed: A Journey to Inner Peace</a>. This is a 12-Week group coaching program led by empowerment coach, Jaime Messina, geared toward connecting with, building trust, and beginning to heal your inner child so that the patterns of your past stop affecting your current life!If you are ready to start your healing journey, join us September 16th for the program! You can learn more information about it by <a data-mce-href="https://jaimecoaches.com/childhoodreclaimed" href="https://jaimecoaches.com/childhoodreclaimed">clicking here!</a>

Jaime Coaches

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