Thriving Through the Power of Being Comfortable with Being Misunderstood

Thriving Through the Power of Being Comfortable with Being Misunderstood We live in a world where clarity is often sought after and understanding is highly valued, the fear of being misunderstood can hold many people back from truly expressing themselves. The pressure to conform, to fit into the neat little boxes society provides, can be overwhelming. But what if, instead of fearing misunderstanding, we embraced it? What if we saw being misunderstood as a sign of growth, innovation, and self-actualization? What if being comfortable with being misunderstood was the key to thriving in a world that often demands conformity?  The top 1% of the Elites believe that they will never be put in a box, they always think outside of a box, they are rarely understood by the general population, and they have a small circle of friends they can count on. I wanted to write this after watching Dan Martell on a YouTube Podcast that talked about.  I have always been told: Your dreams are too big, when I have a vision for something no one else is doing people would say it can’t be done, when I explain things to people, they can’t understand me even when I explain more and mostly just misunderstood! Let’s explore the profound impact of embracing the discomfort of being misunderstood and how doing so can lead to personal and professional growth, greater resilience, and ultimately, a more fulfilling life.  After all of these years I finally get that it is ok to be misunderstood because that means I am not in the general 90% of the population.  Succeeding is truly an option for me no matter how high I CHOOSE to go.  This last year I was incredibly burned out.  Beating myself up for not doing the things I knew would propel me to higher levels.  I was sick, couldn’t work out, planning our wedding, going through Menopause and other health issues.  Finally, after our wedding came words of wisdom supernaturally downloaded and a light bulb went off.  What if you stop giving to those you feel you aren’t pouring into themselves?  What if you start paying attention to your health, wealth, personal and professional relationships? What if you start seeing your own personal worth of being in the top 10%?  I chose to create my mission statement to be who I am rather than who I will be – own it now.    When you sit down and create your own personal mission statement of who you are, who you will serve and how you will reap what you sow.  All I can say is wow... Things change.  You will no longer allow for people to treat you as having less value.  You will no longer allow for boundaries to be broken.  You will no longer will you speak to yourself negatively because you would never do that to someone else.  As I began my journey of growth five years ago, I have watched people come into my life for a reason and a season.  My life became a swinging door of people coming in and going out.  Now that I sit a reflect on those relationships, I am grateful for each and everyone.  It brought lessons, journeys, I was introduced to special people into my life, I grew tougher, stronger and walk taller.  I can’t believe the formational changes.    The Nature of Being Misunderstood To be misunderstood is to be seen, heard, or interpreted in a way that doesn't align with our true intentions or identity. It can happen in any context—at work, in relationships, or within us. The feeling of being misunderstood can evoke a range of emotions, from frustration to sadness to anger. Yet, it's an experience shared by everyone at some point in life.  When this happens, I want you to stop what you are doing.  Take inventory of who you are, your mission, your values and your worth, and then repeat after me: “I choose peace, joy and MYSELF over any situation.  I will go all in to bet on myself.  I no longer have to justify, explain or entertain others’ opinions of me because I know my value, my worth and I have worked too hard, come too far to end my mission here.  I have a purpose bigger than me, I have dreams bigger than others, I have people counting on me that love, honor and cherish who I am and the place I sit in their hearts where they also sit in mine.” Think about this statement: When someone is coming after you, criticizing you, misunderstanding you...  It is because they are a CONFUSED FAN.  They aren’t haters.  They just don’t understand you.  That’s ok.  Maybe they weren’t meant to.  Maybe they aren’t YOUR PERSON.  Remember SEASON and REASON.  Let them be them. Don’t explain.  Don’t justify.  Just Let it be.  You have not come this far in life to STOP. Being misunderstood is often a byproduct of individuality. When you step outside the norms, whether in thought, behavior, or expression, you're likely to encounter resistance or confusion from others. This is especially true for innovators, creatives, and leaders who push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Why Being Misunderstood is Inevitable The more you align with your authentic self, the more likely you are to be misunderstood by those who don't share your vision or values. This is because authenticity often requires breaking away from societal expectations. People are conditioned to understand the world through their own experiences and biases, and when they encounter something—or someone—that doesn’t fit their preconceived notions, misunderstanding occurs. Consider some of the greatest minds in history—Galileo, Einstein, and Van Gogh. Each was misunderstood in their time, labeled as eccentric, strange, or even mad. Yet, it was precisely their willingness to embrace their unique perspectives, despite being misunderstood, that allowed them to make groundbreaking contributions to the world. The Fear of Being Misunderstood The fear of being misunderstood is deeply rooted in our desire for connection and belonging. Humans are social creatures, and we naturally seek approval and acceptance from others. When we're misunderstood, it can feel like a rejection of who we are, leading to self-doubt and insecurity. This fear can be particularly pronounced in professional settings. In the workplace, being misunderstood can lead to miscommunication, missed opportunities, or even conflict. In personal relationships, it can cause emotional distance or hurt feelings. As a result, many people choose to play it safe, conforming to the expectations of others rather than expressing their true selves. The Freedom of Embracing Misunderstanding However, when we shift our perspective and become comfortable with being misunderstood, we unlock a new level of freedom. Embracing misunderstanding allows us to: Stay True to Ourselves: When you accept that not everyone will understand or agree with you, it becomes easier to live authentically. You're no longer shackled by the need for external validation, which allows you to make decisions that align with your true values and beliefs. Encourage Innovation and Creativity: Innovation often comes from seeing the world differently than others do. If you’re constantly trying to conform to others’ understanding, you may stifle your creativity. By embracing misunderstanding, you give yourself permission to explore new ideas, challenge conventional wisdom, and push boundaries. Build Resilience: Being misunderstood can be uncomfortable, but it also builds resilience. Each time you face misunderstanding and stand firm in your truth, you strengthen your ability to navigate criticism, rejection, and adversity. Over time, you become less affected by others' opinions and more confident in your own path.  I want you to remember something: Unless the person who has an opinion has been or is where you want to go then that opinion should be a reflection of themselves in the mirror not yours. Cultivate Deeper Connections: Ironically, embracing misunderstanding can lead to deeper, more meaningful connections. When you are authentic and open, you attract people who appreciate and resonate with your true self. These connections are often stronger and more fulfilling than those based on superficial understanding or conformity. Foster Personal Growth: Being misunderstood often forces us to reflect on our beliefs, values, and choices. This introspection can lead to personal growth, as we become more self-aware and confident in our identity. It also allows us to develop a deeper understanding of others, fostering empathy and compassion. Strategies for Thriving While Being Misunderstood Shift Your Mindset: Instead of seeing misunderstanding as a negative, reframe it as a sign that you are growing and evolving. Understand that it’s impossible to please everyone and that being true to yourself is more important than being universally understood. Communicate Clearly and Openly: While it's important to accept that not everyone will understand you, it’s also crucial to communicate your thoughts and intentions clearly. Being misunderstood doesn’t mean you should avoid explaining yourself; rather, it means doing so without the expectation that everyone will get it. Seek Out Like-Minded Individuals: Surround yourself with people who understand and support you. These individuals can offer validation and encouragement, helping you stay grounded when faced with misunderstanding. Practice Self-Compassion: Being misunderstood can be painful, so it’s important to practice self-compassion. Remind yourself that misunderstanding is a natural part of being human and doesn’t diminish your worth or value. Stay Grounded in Your Values: When faced with misunderstanding, stay anchored in your core values. Let these values guide your actions and decisions, even when others don’t see things the way you do. Embrace Vulnerability: Being misunderstood often requires vulnerability. Embrace it. Share your true self, even when it’s uncomfortable, knowing that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. Thriving in a world where you are comfortable being misunderstood is about embracing the complexity of your individuality. It’s about understanding that true growth, innovation, and self-fulfillment often come from stepping outside the boundaries of others’ expectations. While the journey may be challenging, the rewards of living authentically and courageously are well worth the effort. By shifting your mindset, embracing the discomfort, and staying true to yourself, you can not only survive but thrive in the face of misunderstanding. You’ll discover a life filled with deeper connections, greater creativity, and a sense of freedom that only comes from living in alignment with your true self. So, embrace being misunderstood—it might just be the key to unlocking your full potential. I would love to share some of what I have learned from so many great people.  If you love to read, learn, listen and grow.  Follow some of these amazing people.  Just 1-2 hours out of every day while you are already doing other stuff will shift you to new heights.  Xo If you need someone to learn from, get inspiration from or just look up to check these out: This is my short list of people I follow, have read their books, watched their YouTube Channels, gone to their retreats/seminars Alex Hormozi: https://www.acquisition.com/bio-alex Dan Martell: https://www.danmartell.com Ed Mylett: https://www.edmylett.com Evan Carmichael: https://believe.evancarmichael.com Gabby Bernstein: https://gabbybernstein.com Greg Luther: https://www.gregluthercoaching.com Hal Elrod: https://halelrod.com Karen Coffey: https://karencoffey.com Leila Hormozi: https://www.acquisition.com/bio-leila-2 Lewis Howes: https://lewishowes.com Lisa Bilyeu: https://impacttheory.com Mel Robbins: https://www.melrobbins.com Matthew Hussey: https://matthewhussey.com Ryan Pineda: https://ryanpineda.com Shamina Taylor: https://www.shaminataylor.com

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Embracing Growth and Letting Go

Embracing Growth and Letting GoBy: Kim Donahue   Reflecting on the past five years, and especially the last four months, I’ve noticed profound changes in both my business and personal life. It's as if the pieces of a long-standing puzzle are finally coming together, revealing a clear and powerful picture of my purpose. Learning the power of “Let Them” (Mel Robbins), my goals, ambitions, and focus have started to align in a way that feels deeply connected to who I am and what I want to contribute to the world. For years, I’ve been driven by the desire to help others—whether through my work or personal interactions. My passion for lifting people up, showing them a better way, and inspiring them to achieve their full potential has fueled my growth in many ways, leading to successes I once only dreamed of. But something has shifted within me. While my purpose remains the same, my understanding of what it means to truly help others has evolved. I’ve realized that while I can guide, inspire, and support, I cannot—and should not—take personal responsibility for the choices others make in their own lives. This realization has been both liberating and challenging. It’s freeing to understand that my role is to provide the tools, insights, and encouragement that can help others rise. At the same time, it requires me to step back and allow people to take ownership of their journey. True empowerment comes when I trust others to make their own decisions, even if those decisions lead them down a different path than I might have chosen. Every day, I choose to live with gratitude, reflection, growth, and relationship-building. When I’m with certain people, I can often see things for them that they can’t necessarily see for themselves. I see their potential and the possible outcomes of their choices. However, I’ve learned that I can’t want success for others more than they want it for themselves. That has been the heartbreaking part for me. As my business continues to grow and I reach new heights, I’ve embraced this new perspective. My focus is stronger than ever, and my ambitions are aligned with a clear sense of purpose. I’m here to help others, but I’m also here to honor my own growth, time, energy, and well-being. I’ve learned that a leader not only leads by example but also empowers others to figure things out on their own, with guidance rather than doing it for them. In letting go of the need to control or take responsibility for others’ outcomes, I’ve found a new sense of peace. I’m more present in my own life, more attuned to my needs and desires. This has allowed me to pour even more energy and passion into my marriage, work, and personal growth, knowing that I am doing so from a place of authenticity and alignment with my true self. Over the last five years, I’ve poured my heart and soul into becoming the person I want to be—for myself, my son, my husband, my family, friends, and clients. Life is short, and I’m determined to build an empire and leave a lasting legacy. Matthew Hussey showed us so much during the retreat we attended. Until now, I didn’t really “Walk My Tiger.” What does this mean? It means standing tall, fighting for what you believe in, showing up unapologetically authentic, and maintaining high standards without compromising to fit in. You are your greatest asset. There may only be a handful of people in your corner willing to rise with you, but that’s better than being pulled down by others. In a world that often values conformity over individuality, showing up authentically is an act of courage. It’s about embracing who you truly are, even when it feels easier to hide behind a mask. For me, showing up authentically means being true to my values, emotions, and unique perspective, regardless of external pressures. Authenticity is about alignment—aligning my actions, words, and choices with my true self. It’s not just about being honest but about being whole. Authenticity is the foundation of meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life. When we show up as our true selves, we create genuine connections with others. Professionally, authenticity has allowed me to build trust and rapport with clients and colleagues. Personally, it has deepened my relationships and brought more joy and peace into my life. It’s in those moments of vulnerability and truth that we find the strength to grow and inspire others. However, being authentic isn’t always easy. We live in a society that often encourages us to fit in rather than stand out. There’s a fear of being judged, rejected, or misunderstood when we reveal our true selves. I’ve struggled with this fear, especially in situations where it felt safer to blend in. But I’ve learned that the discomfort of being authentic is far outweighed by the freedom it brings. Embracing authenticity requires self-awareness and courage. It means taking the time to understand who you are and what you stand for. For me, this journey started with introspection—journaling, meditating, and seeking feedback from trusted friends. Setting boundaries is also crucial. By saying “no” to things that don’t resonate with my values, I create space for what truly matters. Setting boundaries was never easy for me. When I started to set them, I lost a lot of people in my life. Setting boundaries is an essential part of self-care and personal growth, but it often comes with unexpected challenges. As you begin to assert your needs and protect your peace, some people may react negatively. It’s a harsh reality that not everyone will respect your newfound self-worth. When you set boundaries, you’re telling others how you expect to be treated. Those who have benefited from your lack of boundaries may feel threatened or resentful. They might distance themselves or speak negatively about you. It’s not uncommon for these individuals to rally others who share their resistance to your growth, creating a toxic environment that can be emotionally draining. This reaction, while painful, is often a clear sign that you are on the right path. People who genuinely care about you will respect your boundaries, even if it takes time for them to adjust. Those who leave or talk behind your back were likely not as supportive as they seemed. Setting boundaries isn’t about pushing people away; it’s about making space for healthier relationships and creating a life that aligns with your values. In the end, the people who leave your life as a result of your boundaries are often those who weren’t meant to stay. By setting and enforcing boundaries, you are choosing yourself, your peace, and your well-being. That is something worth protecting, even if it means losing a few people along the way. As I continue on this journey, I’m excited to see where it will lead. I know there will be challenges, but I also know that I am growing stronger, more resilient, and more attuned to my purpose with each passing day. I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned and the growth I’ve experienced, and I look forward to continuing to help others in a way that is both empowering for them and fulfilling for me. This is just the beginning of a new chapter, one where growth, purpose, and letting go come together to create something truly extraordinary.  Remember: You are stronger than you know.  You are more beautiful than you give yourself credit for. You are smarter because you are growing / learning.  If others are talking about you LET THEM...  Keep on your own path that is being laid out for you.  There are no handouts in life, there are only a hand to lift you up – It’s up to you whether you get UP! Xo 😚

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The Beauty of Unity in Times of Crisis: Restoring Faith in Humanity

The Beauty of Unity in Times of Crisis: Restoring Faith in Humanity In moments of crisis, when the world feels heavy and uncertain, there's a profound beauty that emerges from the chaos—the beauty of people coming together. It's a reminder that, at our core, we are deeply interconnected, capable of immense empathy and compassion. This unity in adversity not only provides immediate relief but also restores our faith in humanity. The Human Connection Crisis situations strip away the superficial layers of our lives, revealing our shared vulnerabilities. Whether it's a natural disaster, a global pandemic, or a personal tragedy, these events have a way of bringing people together. Strangers become allies, communities strengthen, and the collective spirit shines brightly. It's in these moments that we see the best of humanity—individuals offering a helping hand, sharing resources, and providing emotional support to those in need. Acts of Kindness Stories of kindness and solidarity are plentiful in times of crisis. Volunteers working tirelessly to provide food and shelter, neighbors checking on each other, and professionals going above and beyond their duties to help those affected. These acts, whether big or small, weave a tapestry of hope and resilience. They remind us that even in the darkest times, there is light in the form of human kindness. A Sense of Purpose Coming together in crisis gives individuals a sense of purpose. It shifts focus from individual worries to collective action. People find meaning in helping others, and this shared purpose fosters a sense of belonging and community. The connections formed during these times often have lasting impacts, reinforcing the idea that we are stronger together. Healing Through Unity The emotional and psychological benefits of coming together in crisis cannot be overstated. Shared experiences of hardship and recovery can heal wounds that might otherwise remain open. There is comfort in knowing that one is not alone, and that others are walking the same path. This solidarity can turn fear into courage, and despair into hope. Restoring Faith In a world where negativity often dominates the narrative, witnessing acts of unity and compassion can be a powerful antidote. It restores faith in people and reminds us that despite our differences, we share a common humanity. These moments of coming together reveal the innate goodness within us all, reaffirming that, fundamentally, people are capable of great love and generosity. Conclusion The beauty of unity in times of crisis is a testament to the resilience and compassion of the human spirit. It highlights the extraordinary capacity for empathy and cooperation that lies within each of us. As we come together to face challenges, we not only find solutions but also rediscover the profound truth that we are stronger together. This unity not only provides immediate relief but also restores our faith in humanity, reminding us that in the face of adversity, the best of us shines through.   If you need resouces we have a huge list feel free to reach out.

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