The Power of Showing Up: Embracing Imperfection and Struggles with PDA and RSD

Jen and I discuss our struggles with showing up and doing life even when it's hard. We model grace and vulnerability, reminding you that it's okay to not have it all together. The conversation touches on topics such as PDA, rejection-sensitive dysphoria RSD, and the pressure of gift-giving. We also discuss the importance of communication and staying connected, even when feeling tired or overwhelmed. This episode is helpful for anyone who may be struggling.

CO-HOST

Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC

HIGHLIGHTS

Summary

In this conversation, Patricia and Jen discuss their personal struggles with health issues, specifically vertigo and its impact on their daily lives. They explore the challenges of navigating uncertainty, the importance of showing up authentically even when it's hard, and the need for self-compassion and self-care. They also delve into topics such as perception, autonomy, and the role of humor in medical settings. The conversation highlights the significance of connection, vulnerability, and understanding in supporting one another during difficult times. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of recognizing and honoring one's own needs and limitations. In this conversation, Jen and Patricia discuss the importance of effective communication and provide practical tips for improving communication skills. They explore the role of active listening, empathy, non-verbal communication, cultural sensitivity, and overcoming communication barriers. The conversation emphasizes the significance of clear and respectful communication in personal and professional relationships.

·         We discuss the challenges of being perceived and the pressure to conform to societal expectations.

·         The conversation touches on topics such as autism, PDA, and rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD).

·         We discuss the importance of communication and staying connected, even when feeling tired or overwhelmed.

·         It’s okay to not have it all together.

·         We talk about the pressure of gift-giving and the anxiety it can cause for neurodivergent individuals.

·         We discuss the concept of being in charge and the nervous system getting activated when feeling a loss of autonomy (PDA—Pathological Demand Avoidance or Pervasive/Persistent Drive for Autonomy).

·         We friends share our experiences with PDA and how it affects our daily lives.

·         We talk about the importance of self-care and setting boundaries to avoid burnout.

·         We discuss the challenges of being vulnerable and the fear of rejection that comes with it.

·         The conversation touches on the importance of self-acceptance and embracing one's unique traits.

·         We discuss the impact of childhood experiences on our current struggles and coping mechanisms.

·         We share our experiences with medical care and how we navigate uncomfortable situations.

·         We talk about the importance of humor and how it can humanize otherwise sterile environments.

·         The conversation ends with a reminder to be kind to oneself and to embrace imperfection as a part of the human experience.

Takeaways

Navigating health issues can be challenging and uncertain, but it's important to show up authentically and seek support.

Self-compassion and self-care are crucial during difficult times, even if it means letting go of expectations and prioritizing rest.

Communication and understanding are key in maintaining healthy relationships and navigating challenges together.

Humor and vulnerability can provide comfort and connection in medical settings, helping to humanize the experience. Effective communication is crucial for building strong relationships and resolving conflicts.

Active listening and empathy are essential skills for effective communication.

Non-verbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions, can convey important messages.

Cultural sensitivity is important for understanding and respecting diverse communication styles.

Identifying and overcoming communication barriers can improve the quality of communication.

Chapters (these times need to be adjusted to the addition of the introduction)

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Tone

01:10 Modeling How to Show Up and Do Life Even When It's Hard

02:06 Supporting Each Other and Being Present

02:31 Understanding and Sharing Personal Health Struggles

06:10 The Uncertainty and Challenges of Dealing with Vertigo

09:01 The Impact of Dizziness on Daily Life and Activities

10:15 Navigating the Emotional and Mental Toll of Health Issues

12:30 The Importance of Connection and Honesty in Difficult Times

13:40 Exploring Personal Awareness and Self-Reflection

21:11 The Influence of Perception and Autonomy on Self-Care

23:51 The Role of Humor and Vulnerability in Medical Settings

26:14 Navigating Overwhelm and Setting Boundaries During the Holidays

29:03 Recognizing Soul Fatigue and the Need for Rest

31:37 Reevaluating Expectations and Prioritizing Self-Care

35:20 Communicating Needs and Understanding Each Other

37:30 Reflection and Gratitude

02:30 The Importance of Effective Communication

08:15 Active Listening and Empathy

15:45 Non-Verbal Communication

22:10 Cultural Sensitivity and Communication

29:20 Overcoming Communication Barriers

35:10 Conclusion

PODCAST HOST

Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for HSPs that focus on understanding what it means to be an HSP, self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

CO-HOST BIO

Jen Perry, MSEd, MA, LPC has been a psychotherapist for 20 years. She specializes in helping Highly Sensitive People thrive in love, work, and parenting Highly Sensitive Children. Jen is passionate about using mindfulness and compassion-based approaches to ameliorate human suffering.

LINKS

Jen’s Links

Email: Jen@heartfulnessconsulting.com

Jen’s website: https://heartfulnessconsulting.com/

Patricia’s Links

HSP Online Course--https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/hsp-online-groups/

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Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com