Many people lose themselves in relationships. They clue into what’s expected and begin to compromise their own priorities and sense of self in order to maintain a bond in which they’ve become attached. Over time, the love offered loses its meaning and value, and the sense of self takes too many hits. Sometimes people decide it’s just better to be alone because at least then we can hold onto ourselves and remain intact. But…that’s not the only option.
 
In relationships lie the opportunities to maintain ourself while managing our interpersonal dynamics with others, all without selling our soul. This requires we develop our power within and refrain from trying to get the upper hand by engaging in power-over, or letting ourselves be dominated as in power-under either. The power-within that strengthens our sense of self requires we let go of the need for love, approval and acceptance from others. And, from that place, we keep our hearts open while managing relationships, making what we think and feel matter more than what others want from us or think of us. This is not done by separating ourselves from them. It’s done by keeping our hearts open and determining to be the constant. We decide to be the one responsible for the love we hold for ourselves and for others no matter what they do or decide. This is not always easy.
 
I can’t think of a better person to be discussing this with than my guest today. She is a woman who has declared for and made decisions to own her voice and to live a life of authenticity so that she can help others – particularly women - but men too, do the same. Just as when we declare for peace, all war breaks out to be cleared, so too does her declaration for women’s empowerment bring up all that needs to be cleared away within women, including herself. When life tests us, we can become defeated or we can realize these tests are the gateway to a life we love because we gain the skill to remain intact despite them. 
 
Some questions asked may be: 

1. Where have you struggled to remain intact in relationships?
2. How do people sell their souls in relationships and play power-under?
3. Why is it difficult for even accomplished, successful, adults (men and women) to remain intact?
4. What are the costs of people pleasing?
5. What are the costs of avoiding relationships altogether or engaging with authenticity?
6. Where have you been maintaining being the constant in your life and in relationships and how does this feel?

 watch: https://youtu.be/mugEfqxiZ7Y