Real-Talk: Sharing My Thoughts – JSHealth

I’ve been having some recent thoughts that just had to be shared vulnerably with the JSHealth Community. Connecting as a community is how this all began….

Recently, I had a moment where I got caught up on looking at a few people on social media and my first thought was… “Wow, their lives look so perfect. They probably don’t have any challenges with work, kids or anything! Life just seems so cruisy for them.”

To be honest, I’m not someone who spends that much time scrolling on social media. I gave that up years ago, and set some clear boundaries with it. Like very clear boundaries – I switch my phone off at 8pm every single night, and only really follow the people I love dearly. Of course I still love using social media to chat to my community.

The point is – I really don’t compare my life to others that often.

But last week, I found myself comparing and it triggered yucky emotions. At that moment, I instantly thought of my future kids and how much I don’t want them to believe that what is portrayed on social media truly is real life. 

Those few moments were such an awakening to me of what the world has become. A world where we are just seeing the highlight reel of life… but actually the absolute non-reality of life.

Trust me – I love my life! I am an optimist and manifester of all the good things. I’m mostly a really happy person, but I also struggle with things. I live an imperfect life, alongside an amazing one.

I know we hear this all the time. But really – not that many people share the other side of life. Humans need to know that they are not alone.

As my mum has always said to me “Life is so imperfect. That’s the way it is. Enjoy the good times and let the harder ones come and go.”

Hearing that wisdom throughout my life has helped me immensely.

I’ve always been someone who knows the value in sharing my struggles – my anxiety, mental health, relationship with my body, fearful intrusive thoughts and the reality of running your own business (especially as a female), as a few examples. 

So I share this now, because I know how many people often relate. One magical thing that comes out of struggle, is that they often help someone else feel less alone.

I have the privilege of being in touch with thousands of people on a daily and weekly basis, and so many are often willing to share their struggles with me (which again I find to be such a privilege.)

But the average person may not have this ability to see that others are struggling too – causing them to feel very isolated or alone. This is when shame comes into the picture too. Shame eats away at someone’s self confidence and causes them to feel “less than.” I’ve been there many times and I write this because it pains me to think that anyone out there could be feeling shame for having harder times and navigating them alone. 

I’m not a mum yet… but I can only imagine the comparisons that must happen when women navigate this period of life too. 

Nothing is worse than feeling alone and isolated with your struggles, no matter what they are – big or small. So remember to share openly and vulnerably. And don’t be afraid to connect. 

I share all this now, because I know how many people often relate. When we share our struggles with each other, it’s a reminder that no matter what you are going through, you’re never alone..

With care,
Jess x