Girls Night #274: Twelve of the MOST Important Things I’ve Learned in the Last 12 Years — with Stephanie May Wilson
Oct 21, 2024
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Discover the profound lessons gleaned from over a decade of personal and professional growth. The discussion highlights the power of boundaries in relationships and the importance of supportive community connections. Learn how to navigate dreams and failures while embracing personal responsibility, especially for women facing societal pressures. The host shares insights on simplifying life for better mental health and fostering meaningful connections, all while celebrating years of shared experiences and growth.
Setting clear boundaries is essential for personal well-being, allowing individuals to define what they tolerate in relationships and empower their emotional state.
Surrounding oneself with kind and supportive people dramatically influences happiness, as distancing from negative relationships fosters personal growth and emotional health.
Taking consistent action toward goals is crucial, as starting today builds meaningful connections and accelerates progress on personal aspirations over time.
Deep dives
The Importance of Boundaries
Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining personal well-being and mental health. Boundaries are not about controlling others but rather about defining what you are willing to tolerate in relationships. For example, when a situation arises, such as children jumping on furniture, it is vital to focus on your response, determining what actions you will take rather than trying to manage their behavior directly. Ultimately, understanding that boundaries reflect your decisions empowers you to take charge of your interactions and emotional state.
Choosing Healthy Friendships
It is crucial to surround oneself with kind and supportive people, as relationships significantly impact overall happiness and mental health. Many individuals feel pressured to maintain friendships even with those who are unkind or disrespectful, which can lead to long-lasting emotional trauma. Recognizing that it is perfectly acceptable to distance oneself from negative influences is vital for personal growth. Establishing standards for friendships based on kindness and safety can lead to healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
Starting Early for Momentum
Creating momentum in any area requires consistent effort and early action. A Chinese proverb highlights that the best time to start a tree is 20 years ago, with the second-best time being now, emphasizing the value of beginning as soon as possible. For instance, reflecting on long-lasting friendships shows that nurturing relationships takes time and effort, and starting today can yield meaningful connections in the future. The earlier one begins working toward a goal, the more substantial the outcome will be over time.
Embracing Personal Decisions
Empowerment comes from acknowledging that individuals have the authority to make their own choices in life. It's crucial to recognize that different paths work for different people, and external opinions should not dictate personal decisions. The process of decision-making is often not about right or wrong but rather about preferences, enabling individuals to shape their own lives. Embracing this mindset allows everyone to pursue the lives they truly desire without being tied down by expectations.
The Role of Mental Health
Prioritizing mental health is fundamental not only for personal well-being but also for the well-being of those around you. It is vital to recognize that mental health struggles can have repercussions on family and friends, making it essential to seek help. Asking for support in times of need is not a sign of weakness but rather a necessary step toward healing. Creating a solid support system can lead to healthier interactions and improved overall quality of life.
A few weeks ago, I recorded a video to share with women in our community who purchased something from my shop during my blog birthday sale. It was called the 12-in-12 workshop and in it I shared 12 of the most important things I’ve learned in the last 12 years of my life. But, the more I thought about it, these are things that I wish I could tell every woman, so, instead of just sharing it with a portion of our community, I wanted to share it with everyone! So that’s what we’re doing today!
In this conversation, we’re talking about boundaries, friendships, figuring out what you want to do with your life, how to dream, how to fail, and so much more!
These things have absolutely changed my life in the very best way, and I cannot wait to tell you about them!