by Feeling Great | Jun 17, 2023 | Personal Growth
The Secret to Happiness and Self-Love
Why Self-Love is the Key to Happiness
The final Secret to Happiness – Self-Love – is here!
We often hear phrases like:
“You need to love yourself more.”
“You can’t truly love someone else until you love yourself first.”
“If you had more self-love, that wouldn’t have happened.”
Advice about self-love is freely given by friends, family, and even strangers, all with the best intentions. But what does it really mean?
Self-love isn’t about makeovers, new clothes, or romantic relationships. While those may bring temporary happiness, they don’t build lasting self-worth. True self-love comes from appreciating yourself and taking consistent actions that nurture your physical, emotional, and spiritual growth.
When you truly love yourself, you:
- Accept yourself – flaws and all.
- Stop seeking approval from others.
- Develop compassion for yourself and those around you.
- Live with purpose and confidence every day.
Now, let’s explore six simple ways to cultivate self-love and create a happier, more fulfilling life.
6 Powerful Happiness and Self-Love Tips
1. Own Yourself – Be Unapologetically You
Get clear on your thoughts, emotions, and desires. When you understand yourself deeply, outside opinions don’t shake you. You feel stable, grounded, and confident, even when life throws challenges your way.
- Try this: Journaling daily helps you gain clarity on what truly matters to you.
2. Choose Your Needs Over Temporary Wants
Loving yourself means choosing what nourishes you, not just what feels good in the moment. It’s like junk food—it may taste great now but could harm you in the long run.
Avoid habits or relationships that drain your energy. Instead, prioritize healthy choices that keep you strong and moving forward.
- Try this: Ask yourself, “Does this support my growth or hold me back?” before making a decision.
3. Practice Self-Care Daily
You show love for yourself when you take care of your body and mind. Simple acts of self-care boost confidence and well-being.
Prioritize:
- Nourishing foods
- Daily movement
- Quality sleep
- Positive relationships
Try this: Set a self-care non-negotiable each day, like a morning walk or a healthy meal.
4. Set Boundaries – Protect Your Energy
True self-love includes saying no to people, situations, or habits that drain you physically, emotionally, or spiritually.
You don’t have to please everyone. Setting clear limits ensures you have the time and energy for what truly matters.
Try this: Practice saying “No, that doesn’t work for me.” without guilt.
5. Surround Yourself with the Right People
Some friendships nurture your soul, while others bring negativity. “Frenemies” may pretend to care but secretly take pleasure in your struggles.
Choose to be around those who uplift and inspire you. Your circle should support your happiness, growth, and success.
Try this: If a relationship feels draining, take a step back and assess if it’s truly healthy for you.
6. Forgive Yourself – Embrace Imperfection
Nobody is perfect, and mistakes are part of growth. The key to self-love is learning from experiences rather than punishing yourself.
Shift your mindset:
- View mistakes as lessons, not failures.
- Accept that you’re a work in progress.
- Treat yourself with the same kindness you’d show a close friend.
Try this: When you feel self-criticism creeping in, pause and ask: “Would I speak to a friend this way?”
Start Boosting Your Happiness and Self-Love Today
Pick one or two of these tips and start applying them today. The more you love yourself, the healthier your relationships become, and the more happiness you attract into your life.
Remember: True self-love isn’t selfish—it’s essential. When you love yourself fully, you create a life filled with joy, confidence, and fulfillment.
Here’s a 19 Self-Care Strategies for you! Which self-love tip resonates with you the most? Let’s chat in the comments! If this inspired you, share it with someone who needs a little self-love reminder today.
Book Here for a session with me.
by Feeling Great | Feb 6, 2022 | Mind, Spirit
Midlife Crisis or Midlife Transition?
Understanding the Signs and How to Navigate Them
A midlife crisis often manifests through feelings of anxiety, confusion, and discontent. During this time, many people question their purpose and life direction. One of the most significant signs is making major lifestyle changes, such as altering careers or relationships. Friends and family may notice these changes before you do.
What is a Midlife Crisis?
A midlife crisis is a natural phase that occurs as you transition biologically and emotionally. Every 7 to 9 years, we undergo significant personal changes. For example, adolescence is one of the first major transitions, and midlife is another. Midlife, often occurring between ages 35-55, marks the end of reproductive years and the opportunity to focus on personal growth. While stress, loss, or life changes may trigger a crisis, it can also offer a chance for transformation and self-discovery.
11 Common Signs of a Midlife Crisis
- Desire to escape to a new place
- Feeling stuck in your job or considering quitting
- Unexplained periods of low mood or depression
- Feeling trapped by family relationships
- Constantly questioning “Where am I going in life?”
- Struggling with financial responsibilities
- Yearning for a simpler life
- Experiencing stress or trauma (divorce, death, health crisis)
- Irritability or sudden anger
- Acting out of character
- Sudden urge to get fit or change appearance
Why Do Midlife Crises Happen?
A midlife crisis or transition serves as an opportunity to realign and find your true path. At this stage, you may feel as though you are becoming two people: the mature self handling responsibilities, and the younger, more spontaneous self yearning for freedom. This clash can create confusion, but it’s part of a transformational process. With time, these two aspects of yourself can merge into a balanced, integrated identity.
How to Turn Your Midlife Crisis Into a Transition
- Acknowledge and own your feelings: Denying emotions only leads to frustration. Embrace them and process them gradually.
- Take small steps: Making minor mistakes is part of the process, and these are easier to recover from.
- Avoid drastic decisions: Instead of running away, reduce the pressures gradually to create space for growth.
- Incorporate movement and exercise: Activities like yoga, swimming, or dance help reconnect mind, body, and spirit.
- Express yourself creatively: Writing or engaging in art helps you explore new sides of yourself.
- Be mindful about who you share with: Some people may not understand or may judge you. Choose supportive individuals who encourage growth.
- Release self-judgment: Let go of limiting beliefs to open new paths for change.
How Long Will a Midlife Crisis Last?
The midlife transition typically lasts 3 to 5 years, with ups and downs. For some, the crisis may repeat every 7 years. However, seeking guidance can lead to quicker resolutions, sometimes in under 2 years. Patience and self-compassion are key during this period of growth and transformation.
Final Thoughts: This is a time of learning, evolving, and thriving. Embrace the process, go slow, and enjoy the journey!
by Feeling Great | Nov 28, 2018 | Cognitive Health
8 Ways to Let Go of Overwhelm
Feeling Overwhelmed? You’re Not Alone – Let Go of Overwhelm
Let Go of Overwhelm! at certain times of the year, overwhelm can take hold and leave you feeling drained. Many of us experience it, whether from constant distractions, endless responsibilities, or an overactive mind.
When stress builds up, you may find yourself stuck in fight, flight, or freeze mode—or even a mix of all three. The key to breaking free? Learning how to manage your energy, shift your mindset, and simplify your life.
Recognizing the Signs of Overwhelm
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to take action:
- Feeling anxious or on edge
- Struggling to focus or make decisions
- Constantly stressed and tense
- Irritable and easily frustrated
- Lacking joy or motivation
- Procrastinating or avoiding tasks
Awareness is the first step. Take a deep breath, check in with yourself, and ask—how do I really feel?
8 Simple Ways to Let Go of Overwhelm
1. Pause and Reset
Give yourself permission to stop and breathe. Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and step back from the chaos. Even 15 minutes of quiet time can help reset your mind.
2. Simplify Your Life
Overwhelm often comes from overcomplicating things. Ask yourself, how can I make my life easier? Start small—declutter your space, reduce commitments, or streamline daily tasks.
3. Focus on Priorities
What truly matters? Get clear on your top priorities and let go of distractions. When you focus on what’s essential, everything else feels lighter.
4. Value Yourself
Do you feel the need to prove, perform, or produce constantly? Overcommitting can stem from low self-worth. Shift your mindset by recognizing your value isn’t based on busyness.
5. Choose How You Want to Feel
Instead of reacting to stress, set an intention for how you want to feel. Do you want to feel balanced, calm, free, or playful? Keep this in mind throughout the day.
6. Let Go or Set Limits
Where is your time and energy going? Journal each night to identify what drains you and start saying no to things that no longer serve you.
7. Commit to Less
Are you setting unrealistic expectations for yourself? Avoid overloading your schedule and prioritize what truly brings you joy and fulfillment.
8. Reimagine Your Routine
Create a daily schedule that supports your well-being. Prioritize rest, self-care, and activities that nourish your mind and body. A well-structured routine leads to less stress and more balance.
You Have the Power to Choose
Overwhelm doesn’t have to control you. By making small, intentional changes, you can shift your perspective and reclaim your peace.
Start today—pause, prioritize, and simplify. The more you practice, the easier it gets.
“Promise me you will not spend so much time treading water and trying to keep your head above the waves that you forget how much you have always loved to swim.” – Tyler Knott Gregson
Wishing you a calm and nourishing week ahead.
Julie xx
More blogs about overwhelm? Read this one to help you take back control of your life!
by Feeling Great | Jan 29, 2018 | Spirit
Domestic Violence – The Silent Epidemic
Domestic violence continues to harm our communities, yet it often remains hidden. Every day, I witness the deep impact it has on women—both past and present. It’s time to bring this issue into the light and speak up.
Shocking Domestic Violence Statistics in Australia
Did you know:
- 1 in 3 women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from someone they know.
- 1 in 5 women over 18 have been stalked in their lifetime.
- 1 in 5 women have faced harassment in their workplace. (Source: White Ribbon)
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence includes violence, abuse, and intimidation between people in an intimate relationship. The abuser uses control and fear to dominate the victim, violating their basic human rights.
Forms of Domestic Violence:
- Emotional and verbal abuse
- Financial and psychological control
- Physical and sexual assault
- Isolation from family and friends
- Restricting religious or cultural practices
To illustrate the reality of domestic violence, here’s Sharon’s story.
Sharon, in her 50s, came to see me feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and anxious. She wanted to regain her health and energy to care for her aging parents, support her three teenage sons, and maintain her part-time job.
During our sessions, she revealed a painful truth—one of her teenage sons had pushed her into a metal pole, cracking her rib, simply because she enforced an internet curfew. Even worse, her husband justified the act, blaming her for “provoking” it.
This is not okay.
Breaking the Silence on Domestic Violence
Domestic violence isn’t just physical—it manifests in many ways. Here are some common forms:
- Emotional abuse: Name-calling, mind games, put-downs, silent treatment, excessive jealousy.
- Social abuse: Isolation, public humiliation, controlling movements, monitoring phone calls.
- Financial abuse: Controlling money, forcing debt, gambling away assets, withholding financial resources.
- Physical abuse: Hitting, pushing, intimidation, property damage, forced physical labor.
- Sexual abuse: Coerced acts, humiliation, non-consensual demands, sexual harassment.
More recently, domestic violence has been increasing among teenage boys, especially those addicted to violent video games. Exposure to aggression without consequences can normalize disrespectful and harmful behavior.
Preventing Domestic Violence Starts with Us
Violence against women begins with a lack of respect. When we excuse harmful behavior—whether by saying “it’s not that bad” or blaming the victim—we allow it to grow. Violence is never acceptable.
Victims often realize, in hindsight, that warning signs were present early on. It’s our responsibility to recognize these signs before they escalate.
As adults, we have the greatest influence on young minds. By challenging disrespect and addressing harmful attitudes, we can break the cycle. Teaching our children about respect and consent is just as important as warning our daughters to be cautious.
Creating a Future Free from Domestic Violence
The research is clear—violence against women starts with early attitudes and behaviors passed down through generations. Changing the statistics begins with changing ourselves.
- Parents, teachers, coaches, and employers play a crucial role in shaping the next generation’s beliefs.
- Small, consistent changes in how we speak and act make a lasting impact.
- The way we think influences the words we use, and our words shape the world around us.
If we want a future free from gender violence and inequality, we must start now. Reflect on your own attitudes, challenge harmful beliefs, and set an example for the next generation.
Together, we can break the cycle.
Try reading this as well Fear and Anxiety Difference and share with us your experience!
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by Feeling Great | Jan 10, 2018 | Mind
How You Do One Thing Is, How You Do Everything
Have you ever noticed that the way you approach one challenge is often how you handle everything else in life? Whether it’s big or small, under pressure or in everyday situations, we all have default patterns that repeat. So, what’s yours?
Your Patterns Shape Your Life
The way you react to obstacles, manage stress, and face new experiences is likely the same across different areas of your life. HuffPost describes it perfectly—our habits and behaviors stay consistent, no matter the situation.
I fully understood this concept last year during a personal development workshop in Fiji.
After a red-eye flight, two plane transfers, and a car ride, I arrived exhausted at my destination. With barely any sleep, I was told to prepare to climb a towering pole and leap from the top.
Panic hit. My heart pounded. Sweat poured.
“You’ve got to be kidding. I couldn’t be less prepared.”
As I lined up, the instructor’s final words stuck with me:
“How you do one thing is how you do everything.”
Uncovering Your Default Patterns
When we’re under stress, our automatic response kicks in. What’s yours?
- Do you freeze and avoid taking action?
- Do you rush ahead and forget to enjoy the process?
- Do you need to see others succeed before you try?
- Do you struggle to let go of what’s holding you back?
- Do you overthink and talk yourself out of your potential?
- Do you follow a logical process, or do you skip steps and feel off balance?
The way we think we’ll respond isn’t always how our body reacts. It’s eye-opening!
The Power of Letting Go
To my surprise, I climbed that pole with ease. Keeping my focus on the horizon, I refused to look back.
That was the real lesson: moving forward and staying present. The past didn’t define my next move.
At the top, I paused. I let go of the pole, shifted my footing, and stood tall. A powerful metaphor for life—letting go of what is to move toward what could be.
Victory. Awe. A moment to remember.
And then, reality hit—the only way down was to jump.
Even with a harness and rope, it felt terrifying. Just like in life, support is often there, even when we can’t see it.
Taking a deep breath, I leaped into thin air. “Ohhhhhhh shit!”
And then—relief. A grinning Fijian instructor held the rope below, proving I was never truly alone.
Breakthroughs Happen in a Moment
This experience taught me something powerful: breakthroughs don’t take years—they happen in an instant.
The second you decide, “That’s it. Time for change. Let’s do this.” That’s when transformation begins.
Among the group, there was a saying:
“Leave your bullshit on the pole.”
It was about shedding limiting beliefs, releasing old stories, and stepping into the life we were meant to live.
So, is it time for your breakthrough—physically, mentally, or emotionally?
Need help with a 7 Day Feeling Great Reset? Click here to get started.
Julie xx
