Let Go of the Story That Shrinks You

(mouse clicks) (dramatic music) Headspace Studio. (dramatic music) Hey there. Welcome to "Radio Headspace." I'm Dora. So when I was in nursing school, I remember working on a group project that meant a lot to me. We were brainstorming ideas and I had something to share. But as my turn approached, my heart started racing. Doubt rushed in; "What if my idea isn't good enough? What if they've already thought of something better?" So instead of speaking up, I stayed quiet, nodding along, and hoping no one would notice my hesitation. Later, reflecting on that moment, I realized something important. I wasn't silent because my idea lacked value, I was silent because of a story I had internalized, that my voice wasn't significant enough to matter. Recognizing this was a turning point for me. Many of us carry stories about ourselves that we haven't questioned in years. Stories that quietly convince us to hold back or play small. These stories often sound like caution, humility, or politeness, but beneath their surface is usually an outdated belief that our voice isn't worthy of being heard. Mindfulness can help us to notice these stories clearly, giving us the opportunity to rewrite them with compassion and courage. Another meeting came around and I could feel that familiar nervousness rising again. I had an idea that excited me, but the fear of sounding incompetent was still lingering. This time, however, I paused for a moment reminding myself that my perspective was just as valid as anyone else's. Gathering my courage, I shared my idea aloud. To my surprise, the group embraced it enthusiastically. They built upon it, turning it into something far stronger and more creative than I could have imagined alone. In that moment, something has shifted inside of me. I understood that speaking up wasn't about being perfect, it was about valuing my own voice enough to share it. That simple act of courage transformed how I saw myself. I realized I didn't have to wait for permission or validation from others to believe in my worth. My voice mattered because it was uniquely mine. So today, consider a moment or opportunity you've been hesitant to embrace, an idea you've held back, an opinion you've kept silent, or a conversation you've avoided. What might happen if you give yourself permission to step forward instead of shrinking back? Remember, it's not about being flawless, it's about allowing your authentic self to shine through, imperfections in all. As Maya Angelou beautifully reminds us, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." I'll leave it there for today. Thank you for sharing this time with me. And I'll see you back here tomorrow. (upbeat music)...