Pursuing Me with Shakirah Forde

Pursuing Me with Shakirah Forde

By Shakirah FordeEducationSelf-Improvement
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Pursuing Me with Shakirah Forde episodes

  • A Time for Reflection

    This episode explores mindful reflection and the benefits of intentional introspection. I define what mindful reflection is, discuss how it positively impacts your personal growth, offer quotes and journal prompts to get you thinking and share my own results of reflecting over the past year.


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    You can reach me at [email protected]

    Website: www.Shakirah Forde.com

    15 min
  • Growth is Not a Destination

    Show Notes

    Introduction to the Episode:

    • We kick off with a warm welcome and a brief overview of what this episode is all about – understanding growth as an ongoing journey rather than a finite goal.

      • Segment 1: Understanding Growth as a Journey:

        • Defining Growth: We challenge traditional views of growth as goal-oriented and introduce the idea of growth as an ever-evolving process.
        • The Myth of Major Milestones: A discussion on how focusing solely on major life events can overshadow the small, yet significant, everyday growth experiences.

          • Segment 2: Staying in the Present:

              The Power of Now: We delve into the importance of being present in our daily lives and how this mindfulness can lead to a more fulfilling growth experience. We also discuss various mindfulness techniques and their role in recognizing growth.


              www.shakirahForde.com

              15 min
            • Pushing Through the Seasons

              Title: Pushing Through the Seasons

              Publish Date: 12/4/2023

              Duration: 16min 20 sec

              Episode Summary:

              In this transparent episode, I delve into my personal battle with seasonal depression, exploring how the changing seasons affected my motivation, focus, and discipline. I share my journey of falling into a slump as the days grew shorter and the weather changed, leading to a desire to stay indoors and a decline in energy levels. The episode is a candid discussion about the signs of losing focus, such as decreased physical activity, increased napping, falling behind on creative projects like blogging and podcasting, reduced social interactions, and a lack of organization.

              Key Topics Discussed:

              1. The Impact of Seasonal Changes: Understanding how shorter days and colder weather can lead to seasonal depression and affect daily routines.
              2. Recognizing the Signs: A look at how wanting to stay indoors, feeling tired earlier, and reduced energy are indicators of a shift in mental health.
              3. Personal Struggles: Our host shares their experiences with decreased physical activity, more daytime napping, falling behind on their blog and podcast, reduced interaction with friends, and a struggle to stay organized.
              4. Finding the Way Back: The turning point in regaining focus, including the crucial role of physical exercise, the importance of getting organized (especially through journaling), the benefits of meditation, and the positive impact of stepping out of the house.

                5. Episode Highlights:

                • The Role of Physical Exercise: A detailed discussion on how returning to the gym helped in regaining energy and focus.
                • Journaling as a Tool for Organization: Insights into how maintaining a journal can aid in staying organized and on track.
                • The Power of Meditation: Exploring how meditation can help in regaining mental clarity and focus.
                • Stepping Out: The importance of not staying confined indoors and how getting out can positively impact mental health.

                  • @shakirah_forde | [email protected]

                  Call to Action:

                  Listeners are encouraged to share their own experiences with seasonal depression and how they cope with changes in focus and motivation. They can reach out via social media or email to join the conversation.

                  17 min
                • How I learned to stop caring


                  Show Notes:

                  • Brief overview of the significance of liberating oneself from others' opinions.
                  • Personal anecdotes illustrating the struggles with caring too much about other people's perspectives.
                  • The objective of exploring and discussing practical insights, advice, and techniques to break free from the influence of external judgments.
                    • Exploration of the evolutionary and psychological roots of why humans care about what others think.
                    • Discussion on social acceptance, belonging, fear of ostracism, and societal pressures.
                    • Impact of cultural norms and social media on our perception and self-worth.
                      • Sharing moments and events leading to the realization of the need for change and self-acceptance.
                        • Emphasis on the importance of internal validation over external approval.
                          • Practical steps and daily habits for fostering self-confidence and a strong sense of self.
                          • The role of mindfulness, meditation, and self-reflection in reducing anxiety and changing thought patterns related to others’ opinions.
                            • Experiences and impacts of living more authentically on well-being.
                            • Exploration of the deep connection between authenticity and happiness.
                              • Contact information for further interaction, advice, and support. [email protected]



                                • In this episode, we delve deep into the journey of liberating oneself from the fear of others' opinions, exploring the psychological and evolutionary origins, the turning points that inspire change, and practical strategies for living more authentically. Through personal anecdotes and expert insights, this episode aims to inspire and empower listeners to embrace their true selves and find happiness and fulfillment in authenticity.


                                23 min
                              • The Jealous Boyfriend

                                Episode Overview

                                In today's episode, we delve deep into the complexities of toxic relationships, emotional well-being, and how to reclaim your self-worth. This episode is inspired by a heartfelt letter from one of our listeners, "A" who finds herself unhappy in a relationship with a jealous boyfriend but is hesitant to leave.

                                Topics discussed:

                                • - Feeling stuck
                                • - How self worth plays a part in relationships
                                • - Mustering up the courage to leave
                                • - Trusting your intuition
                                • - Red Flags

                                  • Don't forget to "FOLLOW" to stay up-to-date on our latest episodes and please SHARE.

                                  Also, follow us on social media for daily tips on emotional well-being and relationship advice.


                                  Social Media

                                  Instagram: instagram.com/shakirah_forde

                                  FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/ShakirahF/

                                  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/SForde1111/


                                  13 min
                                • Who am I ?

                                  Episode Description

                                  In today’s episode, we embark on a transformative journey exploring self-awareness. Why is it so important to know who you are? What barriers stand in the way of self-discovery? How do consciousness and subconsciousness play into it? By the end, you’ll have practical tools and exercises to help you dig deeper into your own self-awareness journey.


                                  1. Importance of Self-Awareness: Definition and its role in personal growth and relationships.

                                  2. Barriers to Self-Awareness: Social conditioning, fear of facing the truth, emotional defensiveness, and lack of introspective tools.

                                  3. Consciousness and Subconsciousness: Their roles and interactions in shaping self-awareness.

                                  4. Practical Tools: Journal prompts and mindfulness exercises to aid in your journey to self-awareness.

                                    • One Actionable Task: Pick one journal prompt and one mindfulness exercise from the episode and commit to practicing them over the next week.
                                      • Topic: The Art of Effective Communication
                                      • Special Guest: Dr. Jane Smith, a renowned psychologist and communication expert
                                        • Website: www.ShakirahForde.com
                                        • Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/SForde1111/
                                        • Instagram: instagram.com/shakirah_forde
                                        • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShakirahF/

                                          • Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, and share. Your support helps us reach more people and make a bigger impact. Until next time, take care and stay curious.


                                          Recommended Books:

                                          • "The Untethered Soul" by Michael A. Singer
                                          • "Daring Greatly" by Brené Brown
                                          • "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl


                                            • 25 min
                                          • Letting Go of Friends

                                            Episode Summary:

                                            In this episode, we explore the often overlooked beauty of impermanence in friendships. We talk about the varying dynamics that friendships can undergo, how to recognize when it’s time to let go, and the positives that emerge from doing so. Join us as we dive into the nuances of our relationships and how they contribute to our growth and self-understanding.


                                            Key Takeaways:

                                            1. Impermanence is a Natural Aspect of Life:

                                              • Friendships can go through phases, and that's perfectly normal.

                                              • Recognizing When to Let Go:

                                                • Evaluating a friendship is crucial for both parties involved. Are you growing together or growing apart?

                                                • Amicable Separation:

                                                  • It’s possible to end a friendship with understanding, clarity, and even gratitude for the moments shared.

                                                  • Personal Growth:

                                                    • The end of a friendship can lead to individual growth, freedom from constraints, and the opportunity for new connections.
                                                      • 18 min
                                                    • Boundaries

                                                      1. Defining Boundaries:

                                                      • Unraveling what boundaries mean in a holistic sense.
                                                      • Categorizing boundaries: Physical vs. Emotional vs. Mental.

                                                        • 2. Why Boundaries are Essential:

                                                        • The role of boundaries in safeguarding mental health and emotional well-being.
                                                        • How boundaries carve out space for personal growth and self-discovery.
                                                        • Strengthening relationships through clear and respectful boundaries.

                                                          • 3. Debunking Myths: Common Misconceptions about Boundaries:

                                                          • Are boundaries a sign of selfishness? Unraveling the truth.
                                                          • Addressing the idea of boundaries as rigid constructs.
                                                          • Exploring the fear: Will setting boundaries alienate loved ones?

                                                            • 4. Red Flags and Alarms: The Signs of Poor Boundaries:

                                                            • Recognizing when we're overcommitting and its consequences.
                                                            • The silent toll: How resentment and burnout creep in.
                                                            • The relationship domino effect: Conflicts and misunderstandings.
                                                            • The danger of sidelining personal needs.

                                                              • 5. Blueprint for Balance: How to Set Boundaries:

                                                              • Cultivating self-awareness to understand personal limits.
                                                              • The art of communicating boundaries: Clarity combined with kindness.
                                                              • The importance of consistency in boundary-setting and maintenance.

                                                                • 6. Essential Reads: Top Books to Help Set and Manage Boundaries:

                                                                • Highlighting key reads, including works by Dr. Henry Cloud, Dr. John Townsend, Anne Katherine, M.A., Randy J. Paterson, Dr. Brené Brown, and Tara Brach.
                                                                  • 23 min
                                                                • Leaning into Selfishness: Embracing Self-fullness

                                                                  Episode Overview:

                                                                  In this episode, we delve into the concept of 'self-fullness' - a healthier, empowering perspective on prioritizing your own needs and wellbeing. We aim to challenge societal notions about selfishness, propose ways to balance self-care with caring for others, and offer steps to practice 'self-fullness.'

                                                                  Episode Highlights:

                                                                  1. Introduction & Background: Unpacking societal perspectives of selfishness and introducing the concept of 'self-fullness'

                                                                  2. Redefining Selfishness: Discussion on 'self-fullness,' the importance of prioritizing your needs, and distinguishing between being selfish and self-full

                                                                  3. Embracing 'Self-fullness': Practical steps to embrace 'self-fullness,' including recognizing your needs, learning to say no, and making time for self-care

                                                                  4. Conclusion: Encouraging listeners to take the first step towards 'self-fullness,' thanking listeners for their support, and announcing the next episode's topic

                                                                    5. Key Quotes:

                                                                    • "Being 'self-full' means recognizing that you are just as deserving of care, kindness, and understanding as anyone else."
                                                                    • "Prioritizing your needs isn't just about feeling better in the short-term, it's about long-term health and happiness."
                                                                    • "By saying no when you need to, you're showing respect for yourself and your own limits."

                                                                      • I practice Self-fullness daily with my 90-min evening routine that you can check out here :

                                                                      https://shakirahforde.com/evening-routine/

                                                                      14 min
                                                                    • Burnout

                                                                      Show Notes

                                                                      Part 1: Understanding the Rising Trend of Burnout

                                                                      Part 2: Unraveling the Impact of Burnout

                                                                      Part 3: Recognizing Burnout in Ourselves and Others

                                                                      Part 4: Strategies to Combat Burnout


                                                                      Signs and Symptoms of Burnout

                                                                      1. Physical Symptoms:Chronic fatigue and low energy levels, even after adequate rest.
                                                                        2. Frequent headaches, muscle tension, or other physical complaints.
                                                                        Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or oversleeping.
                                                                        Weakened immune system, leading to frequent illnesses.
                                                                      2. Emotional Symptoms:Feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained most of the time.
                                                                        3. Increased irritability and impatience with colleagues, friends, or family.
                                                                        Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness.
                                                                        Loss of motivation and a sense of detachment from work and responsibilities.
                                                                      3. Cognitive Symptoms:Reduced concentration and difficulty focusing on tasks.
                                                                        4. Memory problems and forgetfulness.
                                                                        Decreased creativity and problem-solving skills.
                                                                        Negative and cynical thoughts about work and life.
                                                                      4. Behavioral Symptoms:Withdrawal from social interactions and reduced engagement with others.
                                                                        5. Procrastination and avoidance of tasks.
                                                                        Increased reliance on unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as excessive alcohol or drug use.
                                                                        Neglecting personal care and hygiene.


                                                                        18 min

                                                                      About Pursuing Me with Shakirah Forde

                                                                      From the publisher's feed

                                                                      Welcome to ”Pursuing Me,” a transformative podcast that dares to explore the captivating journey of self-discovery. This captivating podcast invites you to embark on a deliberate and purposeful quest to uncover your truest self.