Episode 171: Intentionally Rediscovering Ourselves with Julie Bjelland and Willow McIntosh
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Practicing intentional self-discovery after experiencing transitions (relationship/friendship/family/health/life changes, moves, career changes, etc.) as well as learning about the trait of high sensitivity is crucial for reconnecting with our truest authentic selves and ensuring that we live in alignment with our current needs and values. Transitions have a way of reshaping us, sometimes causing us to lose touch with our innermost essence. By intentionally engaging in self-discovery, we create a space for introspection and reflection, allowing us to gain a deeper understanding of who we are and what we truly want. This process empowers us to make conscious choices, make necessary adjustments, and live a life that is authentic, purposeful, and fulfilling.
We will be sharing some of our personal experiences throughout this episode.
Introduction
In this article, we will explore the importance of taking time for ourselves and rediscovering who we are as highly sensitive people (HSPs). Julie Bjelland and Willow McIntosh share their personal experiences and insights on the topic. They discuss the benefits of solo trips, the joy of experiencing nature, and the power of following our passions. They also address the fear and hesitation that can arise when transitioning to self-employment and offer encouragement for those considering this path. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of listening to our own needs and desires and the transformative power of embracing our true selves.
Embracing Solitude and Nature
Julie begins by sharing her recent experience of going to the beach by herself. She describes it as a magical and magnificent experience, where she had the opportunity to witness whales off the shore. Being alone allowed her to fully immerse herself in the beauty of nature and reflect on her own preferences and choices. She encourages others to try activities like solo trips, where they can have the freedom to do what they want without having to consider the needs and preferences of others. Julie believes that these moments of solitude and self-reflection are essential for recharging and finding joy in life.
Willow adds to Julie's point by highlighting the importance of following joy and doing things that light us up. He acknowledges that many people tend to prioritize stress and constant striving over pursuing activities that bring them happiness. However, he believes that taking time out for simple pleasures, such as going to the beach or exploring new places, can greatly enhance productivity and overall well-being. Willow refers to these moments as "little dates with ourselves," where we focus on our own needs and desires.
Transitioning to Self-Employment
Mary Ellen raises a question about transitioning to self-employment and expresses her fear and hesitation about making the leap. Willow responds by emphasizing the importance of recognizing our own needs and the miracles that can happen when our circumstances change. He suggests that some individuals may benefit from having other sources of income while pursuing self-employment, while others may thrive by fully diving into their entrepreneurial endeavors. Willow believes that when we have a genuine need and passion for something, the universe supports us in making it happen.
Julie adds that aligning our work with our passions and what lights us up is crucial for finding fulfillment and success. She shares her own experience of changing careers multiple times and how each transition was driven by her desire to pursue what truly excited her. Julie believes that highly sensitive people have unique gifts to offer the world and encourages individuals to follow their own paths, even if they don't have everything figured out. She believes that doors open when we pursue what brings us joy and fulfillment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, taking time for ourselves, embracing solitude, and following our passions are essential for the well-being and fulfillment of highly sensitive people. Transitioning to self-employment can be a transformative journey, and aligning our work with our passions can lead to incredible opportunities.
Julie and Willow's conversation serves as a reminder to listen to our own needs, embrace our true selves, and find joy in life. They encourage individuals to explore activities that bring them happiness and to prioritize their own desires over societal expectations. They also emphasize the importance of connecting with like-minded individuals and seeking support from communities that understand and appreciate the unique experiences of highly sensitive people.
Julie and Willow express their gratitude for the HSP community and the impact their conversations have had on listeners. They encourage individuals to reach out and share their thoughts and suggestions for future topics. They provide links to their websites, where individuals can find more information about their work and the resources they offer. They also invite listeners to review the podcast and share it with others to help spread awareness and support for highly sensitive people.
Julie and Willow's conversation highlights the importance of self-care, self-discovery, and following our passions as highly sensitive people. They inspire individuals to embrace their true selves, pursue what brings them joy, and find fulfillment in their personal and professional lives. By prioritizing their own needs and desires, highly sensitive people can create a life that aligns with their values and brings them happiness and success.
Julie Bjelland, LMFT, is an HSP psychotherapist specializing in high sensitivity, the author of The Empowered Highly Sensitive Person, and founder of the Sensitive Empowerment Community. Her HSP Podcast ranks among the top 5% of the most shared and followed podcasts worldwide. Julie’s webinars. resources, online courses, and blog have helped millions of HSPs reduce the challenges of living with sensitivity in an overstimulating world. Her greatest joy is helping sensitive people discover their significant value and seeing them share their much-needed gifts with the world. Julie loves connecting in her community and warmly invites you to join this positive, inclusive, sensitive family. Explore her resources and learn how her brain training program reduces anxiety within the first two weeks at JulieBjelland.com❤️🌈❤️ (she/her)
Willow McIntosh is the founder of Inluminance and creator of the High Sensory Coaching Program. Unique circumstances during Willow’s childhood led to the burying of his authentic self and complete misalignment to the work he was destined for. He began to carve his own path into understanding how people with sensory processing sensitivity can learn to use their genetic traits to their advantage. As an adult this led to a lifelong enquiry and practise into learning powerful energetic alignment techniques to re-engage with the authentic self. Willow believes that all people with the trait have the ability to tap into a unique skill that draws on a deeper sensory perception. Having successfully facilitated the development of seven figure businesses Willow’s practise has taken him all over the world. Speaking internationally, training in a broad range of fields and facilitating others for more than twenty years. http://highsensoryintelligence.com/
The HSP Podcast is rated in the top 5% most followed and shared globally! Thank you for sharing to help other HSPs! Check out more episodes at HSPpodcast.com
In this episode, Julie Bjelland and Willow McIntosh explore the pain of being misunderstood, the joy in finding belonging, and the transformative power of self-acceptance and honoring one’s true self as a sensitive and neurodivergent person.