The Messy Middle: Finding Space for Ourselves

This episode dives deep into the concept of the "Beginner's Mind," a beautiful idea rooted in Zen Buddhism that encourages us to approach life with the curiosity and openness of a toddler. We explore how this mindset can liberate us from the burdens of certainty and the pressures of adulthood, allowing us to embrace learning and creativity at every stage of life. I share my own journey of carving out space for myself, both physically and emotionally, while recognizing the ways our conditioned narratives can hold us back. Through journaling and self-reflection, I’ve discovered the importance of giving myself grace and permission to explore my identity beyond the roles I've been assigned. Join me as we uncover the messy, transformative journey of reclaiming our stories and learning to take up space unapologetically.

Takeaways:

• This episode emphasizes the importance of adopting a beginner's mind, or shoshin, to cultivate curiosity and openness in our lives.
• Alex shares her journey of learning to carve out personal space for herself amid the chaos of motherhood and life responsibilities.
• The discussion highlights the significance of journaling as a tool for processing emotions and gaining perspective on personal narratives.
• The conversation encourages embracing discomfort and vulnerability, acknowledging that it's okay to feel lost during periods of change.
• A key takeaway is that making time for self-care and exploration is vital, especially when it feels selfish or indulgent.
• Lastly, the episode reminds us to challenge societal narratives about worth and productivity, embracing our right to simply exist and take up space.

*TRANSCRIPT & SHOW NOTES created with AI