DAY 24 - You can't heal if you keep pretending you're not hurt.

I want to talk about something that often gets swept under the rug in our fast-paced lives: the importance of acknowledging our pain.

"You can't heal if you keep pretending you're not hurt."

These words may sound simple, but they carry a powerful truth. Many of us have become experts at masking our pain, putting on a brave face, and pushing through our days as if nothing is wrong. We tell ourselves, "I'm fine," even when we’re not. But deep down, we know the truth. We know that healing can only begin when we face our wounds head-on.

Acknowledging our pain is not a sign of weakness. It’s a courageous act of self-care. It’s about saying, "Yes, I’m hurt. Yes, I need to take care of myself." When we do this, we give ourselves permission to heal.

Imagine you have a physical injury—a cut, a bruise, a broken bone. Ignoring it won’t make it go away. In fact, it could make it worse. Emotional and mental wounds work the same way. They need attention, care, and time to heal.

But why do we pretend we’re not hurt?

Sometimes it’s because we’re afraid of being seen as vulnerable. We worry about what others might think or say. Other times, we’re so busy taking care of everyone else that we forget to take care of ourselves. And sometimes, we simply don’t know how to deal with our pain.

I want to share a few steps that can help us start this healing journey:

1. Acknowledge Your Pain: The first step is admitting that you’re hurt. It’s okay to say, "I’m not okay." This honesty is the foundation of healing.
2. Talk About It: Find someone you trust and share your feelings. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or therapist, talking about your pain can be incredibly liberating.
3. Self-Care: Prioritize activities that nurture your soul. Whether it’s painting, writing, meditating, or taking a walk in nature, do what makes you feel good.
4. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no. Protect your energy and create space for healing. Remember, it’s okay to put yourself first.
5. Seek Professional Help: Sometimes, we need more than just self-care. Seeking help from a professional can provide you with tools and support to navigate through your pain.

Now, let’s delve deeper into these steps.

Acknowledge Your Pain

Admitting that you are in pain can be one of the most difficult steps in the healing process. It requires you to be brutally honest with yourself, to peel back the layers of defense mechanisms you've built over time. But this step is crucial. It’s about facing your reality without judgment.

Take a moment each day to check in with yourself. Ask, "How am I really feeling?" Allow yourself to sit with whatever emotions arise. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or scared. These emotions are valid and part of the human experience. By acknowledging them, you’re taking the first step towards healing.

Talk About It

Once you’ve acknowledged your pain, the next step is to share it. This doesn’t mean you have to broadcast your struggles to the world, but finding a safe space to talk can be incredibly therapeutic.

Consider journaling as a form of talking it out with yourself. Write down your thoughts and feelings without censoring them. This can help you process your emotions and gain clarity.

Alternatively, reach out to a trusted friend or family member. Sometimes, just having someone listen to you can make a world of difference. If you feel comfortable, seek out a therapist or counselor. Professionals can offer a non-judgmental space and provide tools to help you navigate your pain.

Self-Care

Self-care is more than just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. When you’re hurting, it’s easy to neglect your needs. You might find yourself skipping meals, losing sleep, or withdrawing from activities you once enjoyed. But self-care is about nurturing yourself in body, mind, and spirit.

Make a list of activities that bring you joy and relaxation. It could be as simple as reading a book, taking a warm bath, or spending time in nature. Commit to incorporating these activities into your daily routine. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s essential for your well-being.

Set Boundaries

Setting boundaries is about protecting your energy and well-being. It’s okay to say no to things that drain you or cause you stress. This can be challenging, especially if you’re used to putting others’ needs before your own. But healthy boundaries are crucial for healing.

Start by identifying areas in your life where you feel overwhelmed or depleted. This could be work, relationships, or even social media. Once you’ve identified these areas, set clear boundaries. Communicate your needs assertively and without guilt. Remember, you have the right to prioritize your well-being.

Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, self-care and support from loved ones aren’t enough. If you’re struggling to cope with your pain, seeking professional help can be a vital step. Therapists and counselors are trained to help you navigate your emotions and provide strategies for healing.

There’s no shame in seeking help. In fact, it’s a sign of strength. It shows that you’re committed to your healing journey and willing to take the necessary steps to improve your well-being.

Remember that healing is a journey. It’s a process that requires time, patience, and self-compassion. By acknowledging your pain, talking about it, practicing self-care, setting boundaries, and seeking professional help, you’re taking powerful steps towards healing.  You don’t have to pretend you’re not hurt. Embrace your vulnerability, honor your emotions, and give yourself the love and care you deserve. Healing is possible, and it starts with being honest with yourself.