In a recent video, I explored a profound topic: the feeling of being broken as survivors of childhood trauma. Many of us often feel irreparably damaged, as if the experiences we’ve endured have shattered our sense of self-worth and value. This can lead us to see ourselves as fundamentally broken. However, as we embark on our healing journeys, we begin to piece ourselves back together and reconnect with our true selves.
One insightful viewer posed a question that resonated deeply with me: “What if we have no idea what our true self is?” This is a crucial question, and it’s one that I wanted to delve into further.
For many survivors, connecting with our true selves can be incredibly challenging. Trauma often causes parts of us to split as a means of protection, leading to a disconnection between our minds and bodies. This fragmentation can make it difficult to feel whole again, leaving us unsure of how to reunite with the pieces that define us.
Reflecting on this, I realized that the concept of a “true self” might seem elusive or arbitrary, almost like something we’re perpetually chasing but can never quite grasp. It’s a complex idea to define, but here’s my take on it:
I believe our true self is less about a fixed identity and more about a state of being. It’s about tuning into and honoring our inner voice—listening to our needs, desires, feelings, values, and how we want to present ourselves in the world. Imagine the person you aspire to be, the way you wish to show up in life. That, to me, is your true self. It’s shaped by your own choices and not by the external influences or the negative beliefs formed from past traumas.
Connecting with our true self can be challenging because it’s difficult to put labels on it or to reconnect with it after being fragmented by trauma. This is where healing plays a crucial role. By addressing and healing the inner wounds from our past, we can become more attuned to what truly resonates with us, understanding what works for us and what doesn’t.
How would you define your true self?
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