20/10/2024
It's astonishing how much can change in a short period when we slow down, pay attention, and truly examine ourselves. For too long, I'd been on autopilot, refusing to acknowledge my habits, my self concept, and the narratives I'd woven about myself and others. Through this process I have realised a lot of my foundation and identity are built upon false beliefs, a projection of who I thought I should be - who others told me I was - rather than who I truly am.
These beliefs are like layers of clothing that I have accumulated over time, each piece representing a different aspects of my "personality". I was wearing the shirt of self-doubt, the sweater of self-criticism, the socks of low self-esteem and hat of conformity and these layers were weighing me down, making it hard to see the real soul beneath.
We live in a world where we are more and more disconnected from ourselves. and whilst these layers of clothing may have been necessary growing up in order to survive, as an adult healing and finding your authentic self means taking responsibility and shedding those layers that no longer serve you.
I'm in the process of peeling back these layers, one by one, removing the projections that aren't mine to carry, and rewiring self-limiting thoughts that are ficticious. From no longer using alcohol as a social crutch, to setting boundaries after being a people pleaser to no longer using escapism and distractions to keep me from making any changes. Article by article, I'm slowly uncovering the real me. It's like finding Brittany again, and it feels like coming home.
The Brittany underneath is sensitive, soft, and emotional—not the stoic, no-nonsense person she portrayed herself to be. She loves to be creative and to play with the power of words. She loves being present and living life slowly, not being the hustling corporate lady who hides behind distractions. She is a bit "woo-woo," and fundamentally disagrees with many of the standards and expectations society imposes on her. She doesn't want to fit in a box. She wants to be free. She wants to be expressive.
I plan to continue rediscovering her and I hope you'll embark on a journey to do the same 😊🙏
