What's the difference between occupying a space and truly being at home?

In this reflective episode, Barbara shares a profound realization that hit her on her 30th birthday: for the first time in 30 years, she finally feels at home. Not just in her apartment, but in her own life, her own skin, her own existence.

Growing up, she lived in many places. She had her own apartments where she was the only one on the lease. But she never felt at home in any of them. She was occupying space, but she wasn't belonging. And she couldn't figure out why every new place felt temporary, unsettled, like she was still waiting for something—or someone—to make her feel like she could finally exhale.

Then she spent her 30th birthday in her family's kitchen, sharing stories and just being present. Her dad called her "titas" and joked that she looked 29. And something clicked: the reason she'd never felt at home before wasn't about the spaces she lived in. It was about not feeling at home within herself.

You'll discover:

• The crucial difference between occupying space and creating home
• Why external spaces can't feel safe until you build internal safety first
• How three years of self-knowledge became the foundation for belonging
• Why being protective of your peace is wisdom, not gatekeeping
• How creating home within yourself transforms your ability to hold space for others
• Five practical steps to build that internal sense of home right now

This is for anyone who's ever felt like they're just passing through their own life, people who've moved hoping the next place would finally feel right, and anyone learning that belonging starts from within.

Because home isn't something you find or earn or wait for permission to have. It's something you create—starting with yourself.

Brief mentions of family dynamics and 30th birthday reflections

Support the show

Thank you for being here, beautiful soul.

If this episode resonated with you, I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a review—it helps other sensitive souls find this gentle space we're creating together.

New episodes drop every Wednesday morning—perfect for your commute, morning walk, or cozy evening wind-down.

Connect with me:

• Instagram: @mentalnesting_
• Substack: mentalnesting.substack.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Join The Nest Community

Want to work together? I offer gentle, between-session support for therapy graduates and sensitive adults. Learn more about 1:1 coaching and community offerings at mentalnesting.com

Remember: Messy healing is still healing. You don't have to be done to be enough.

Mental Nesting Podcast: For sensitive adults who've outgrown the hustle