In this episode, I respond to a question from an anonymous listener who writes:

“I recently joined a new group of friends, and while they’re kind and welcoming, I still constantly feel like I’m on the outside looking in. I second-guess what I say, overanalyze their reactions, and wonder if they really want me there. How do I stop feeling like I don’t belong?”

We explore the deep-rooted shame and self-protection strategies that can keep us stuck in outsider energy — even when we’re technically “included.” Inside this episode, we’ll talk about:

• The difference between being welcomed and feeling like you belong
• How our past experiences shape our fear of rejection
• What self-belonging looks like and why it must come first
• Practical tools for navigating new relationships with more trust and less self-doubt

If you’ve ever felt like the outsider in a group, even one that’s kind and accepting — this one is for you.

📝 Want to submit a question for a future episode?

Nothing is off-limits (well, almost nothing).

⁠Submit⁠ anonymously or with your name — whatever feels safest for you.

👉 https://forms.gle/1uYJ87Y2Vag6KYCeA

🧠 If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who might need it. Let’s break the silence — together.

Ready to take the next step?

• Download the FREE handout, "⁠5 Things Shame Resilient People Do Every Day⁠" and start making those daily shifts to break that shame cycle that's keeping you stuck in that negative headspace.
• ⁠Book a free 25-minute discovery call⁠ to discuss different program options and find the support best fits your needs.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to the podcast on ⁠Spotify⁠ or ⁠Apple⁠ Podcasts and be sure to leave a review to let us know your thoughts on this episode.
• ⁠YouTube⁠
• ⁠Website

💬 You don’t have to shrink to fit in. Belonging begins when you stop abandoning yourself.

#AskMeAnything #Belonging #NewFriendships #ShameAndConnection #SelfTrust #ShameResilience #AdversityRising