Write to Feel Supported
Hello Dear One,
It’s good to see you. If you’re here it means you’re open to supporting yourself, which is no small thing.
Once, my understanding of life was that I needed to do everything myself. Over my teens and twenties I ladled on the pressure to do do do, leaving me disconnected from what I wanted, and what brought me joy. Then, depression set in and I had to ask for help. I went to my doctor and was quickly referred to a counsellor. The relief was immediate: I had someone to give me the devoted time and attention I was afraid to give myself. I had support.
A month or so later, on a trip with friends, one of them asked if I’d like an oracle card reading. I’d never tried cards but I loved and trusted my friend, so I agreed. She laid them out. One was about storytelling, which flattered my ego, but another was a horse: a symbol of accepting help, of letting myself be carried, or not having to do it all alone. I’ve never forgotten that moment, because (whatever you think of cards) it changed my perception of getting help for good. I began to see it as a brave thing, rather than a failing. I began to see it as possible.
I will add that my decision to go to therapy wasn’t easy, because of what I thought it meant. None of my friends had counselling and I convinced myself I was broken. I’ll always remember sitting in my dad’s car, waiting for the doctor’s appointment, how scared I felt inside. Perhaps, like me, you have resistance to a certain kind of support. If so: ask yourself why. You’re probably telling yourself a story about what it means.
Fast forward to now, less than three weeks before my 38th birthday, where I find myself supported in so many ways: by friends and family, by counselling and coaching, through self-care practices and the things I seek out. I joined Lucy Sheridan’s Comparison Free Club this month, knowing I wanted help in this area. One of the first tasks was to declare the values we aim to live by and support was at the top of my list. I want to feel supported in all areas of my life, to always know help is always available to me. When I feel down or stuck I know I can ask - do I need help? What kind?
I hope it helps. Sometimes we can’t get the backing we need instantly: we have to go on a waitlist, do our research, save money or negotiate time, but writing is always here to support you, as are these letters. I’ve also announced my next workshops, soulful self-explorations which happen each month - full details below. Spaces are limited and already filling up, it would be lovely to see you there.
Thanks for being here and being you.
All love,
Jo
WORKSHOP NEWS
Write to Thrive monthly workshops are back! Join me each month for ninety minutes of soulful self-exploration, combining grounding exercises with self-compassion and reflection. Open to all, whether you journal regularly or haven’t picked up a pen in years.
Hosted on Zoom they will run on Tuesday 7th September, then the first Thursday of each month: 7th October/4th November/2nd December, from 7.30 - 9 pm. Sessions will be recorded (minus shares) so that you can catch up if you miss one, plus I’ve designed them so you can either drop-in (£15 per session) or do the whole series (£50 for four).
Head straight to the booking link if you know you’re in for one or two, or hit reply to book the series.
AND
If you enjoy these letters like, share, comment or buy me a coffee on Ko-fi.
Here’s a song to see us out, I hope you have a beautiful week.