What do you do when your child just wants to BELONG, but the price is too high? In this episode, I share a story of when a group of mean girls excluded my daughter, and I almost encouraged her to go along just to feel included. We talk about how the desire to belong can lead us to override red flags, abandon our values, and even pressure others to do the same. We also reflect on how easy it is to repeat old patterns until our kids hold up a mirror. Remember, belonging should NEVER come at the cost of self-worth.

Highlights

• Why I almost told my daughter to "just be nice" to toxic friends.

• The high school memory that came rushing back.

• What belonging looks like when you stay true to yourself.

• How women (and moms) still wrestle with being left out.

• How to know when a connection is not healthy.

• Why we need to STOP confusing inclusion with self-abandonment.

Resources + Links

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Jenn Shaw Jones - Jennerational Healing

Founder of Jennerational Healing and a Teen Communication & Identity Coach for Moms. She helps mothers improve communication, strengthen connection, and raise resilient, confident young adults through "The Confident Teen Communication System," using her Identity-Led Communication method. Find her on IG at: @TheJennShawJones or www.jennerationalhealing.com

Suzanne Storm - Sparked Mom

Sparked Mom is for every mom who's ever thought, 'I don't know who I am anymore.' Motherhood wasn't meant to erase you, but it can feel like it has. Suzanne helps busy moms take simple, doable steps to feel alive, confident, and like themselves again—without losing the mom they want to be. Find her on IG at: @TheSuzanneStorm or www.suzannestorm.com