The other day, I sat down on the floor of my husband's office and admitted something that I was nervous want to say out loud…

“I think I'm lonely.”

In a moment of vulnerability, I opened up about my struggle of carrying so much mentally (and physically with this baby in me), because I didn't want to “be a burden.”

I felt like I had to keep it all to myself because I didn't want to be that “Negative Nancy,” unloading on friends who had their own challenges and struggles.

He responded with something so simple, “But, what if you're not a burden to them?”

I mean, a part of me knew he was right, but another part still struggled to accept it.

Then something amazing happened.

Over the next few days, I received random texts from friends just checking in, and even bumped into one of my closest friends at Target that very same day– this one really lit me up 🥰.

The biggest moment came when I got a call from a mom friend I hadn’t talked to in years. She was struggling and needed to talk. 

All I did was listen.

No advice, no coaching—just stayed present with everything she was going through.

That conversation reminded me how powerful connection is. And how we don’t always need to fix things for each other; sometimes, just being there is enough.

It made me realize how often we underestimate the power of authentic connections. And that there are people who see and accept us as we are, and can help us reconnect to ourselves in ways we never imagined– sometimes by just listening.

How often do we shy away from being vulnerable within our relationships for fear of judgement?

Authentic friendship—rooted in mutual trust, vulnerability, and shared growth—can be one of the most powerful forces in our journey to rediscover our truest selves.

Self-discovery is often seen as a solitary path, but the truth is, we aren’t meant to walk it alone. 

When we allow ourselves to be seen and supported by those who love us, we start to trust ourselves again. Our friends remind us of our worth when we forget, holding space for us to explore and empowering us to stand in our truth.

How to Cultivate Authentic Connection:

1. Be vulnerable: Share your real thoughts, even when they’re messy.

2. Listen deeply: Be present in your conversations, listening to understand.

3. Be intentional: Invest time in the friendships that nurture your growth.

 As you continue on your self-discovery journey, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. Lean into the power of friendship—it’s a mirror reflecting your beauty, strength, and potential.