Will you rise to the challenge, darling?

March is here. Spring is approaching, and our clocks will spring forward in the next few days. My mood feels like March – a mix of anticipation and renewal. At Redefine Life, our redefine life holistic psychotherapy offers a compassionate approach to healing that begins from within. Our personalized services support individuals facing significant life transitions or relationship challenges, available both in-person and online. This helps clients make better sense of their lives, particularly regarding personal growth and coping strategies.

Introduction to My Journey

At Redefine Life, we understand that it’s essential to have the right support to face life’s challenges. Our team is dedicated to providing a safe space for individuals to share their stories and work towards meaningful change. We believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life, and our mission is to empower individuals to redefine their lives and find hope. Our low-cost counselling program is designed to be accessible to everyone, and we pride ourselves on being a supportive and non-judgmental space for individuals to heal and grow.

How I Forged Resilience Through Winter’s Trials

The trials of my winter have empowered and invigorated me. While I won’t miss the sleeplessness and hospital stays with my ultimate concierge (almost two months!), I’ll never forget the incredible power of love, grit, and hope.

I vow to remember these past months as a time of personal growth, reaffirming my inherent optimism, hope, and resilience. These experiences do not define me, but they have certainly shaped my journey. I taught myself to rebound – with success.

One thing to remember is that while surviving such an event is a significant achievement, navigating the emotional landscape requires a different level of support and understanding.

This past winter was shocking and challenging. My ultimate concierge had two surgeries, complications, and two months in the hospital, and “it ain’t over yet.”

He’s still recovering from deconditioning, a medical condition requiring reconditioning after a long hospital stay. Every day he works with physical, speech, and occupational therapists. His recovery is supported by a team of dedicated professionals who ensure he feels understood and assisted throughout the process. Dr. Smith, a renowned cardiologist, and Dr. Johnson, a primary care physician, are leading his care, providing personalized and expert attention. Recovery can take six months to a year, as inactivity impacts all body systems, including musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems, cognitions, and the skin. (Consider that the next time you need motivation to go for a walk!)

Welcome to January – A Month for Daydreams

Embracing My True Self

Life has been a challenge, undeniably. But what’s shocking is that I haven’t fallen apart. And through it all, my ultimate concierge keeps telling me, “I love you to the moon, Suzi Good. The best is yet to come.” I smile – I am wise. I know. Life will never be the same. It will be slower, but it will be “good.”

When my husband fell and broke his hip, I decided to face things head-on. And, I did just that. So much so that, at this stage of life, I finally embraced my true identity. And let me tell you, darling, it is the best gift any woman can give herself: “To thine own self be true.”

Sweet reader, “I have arrived.” And so can you, whatever your situation. Climb those stairs. Be curious. Speak your mind. Be you! You have it in you. It is Spring! Spring forward, sweet reader.

Sure, I’ve had moments of sadness. Yet, I’ve risen to every occasion, researching and seeking help from those knowledgeable about deconditioning. Oh, what I’ve learned! As I’ve always told you, a curious woman is an ageless woman. Building support networks through community engagement has also been crucial in fostering resilience and awareness.

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Flying Solo While Conquering Challenges

The choice is yours. You can rise to the challenge, or you can sink.

Though I’ve been through difficult times, I rarely feel down or tired. The power of the mind is incredible, even when the weight of emotional burdens feels overwhelming. I am constantly planting new seeds for my husband’s recovery.

My assistant, Elena, looked at me across the desk last Friday and said, “I have more respect for you than any woman I know.” After thanking her, I asked why. She responded that other women in my situation would be depressed.

I smiled across the desk. Depressed? “Not me. I am determined and grateful, and you make me laugh every day!”

Sweet reader, I look forward to the future with great anticipation, as an independent and married woman. Compassion fosters understanding and connection, ensuring we never face our challenges alone.

The Power of Community, Support, and Connection

Do I ache for the good old days? I admit I have my downtimes. I miss the normalcy of life, simple things like walks with our dog America, brunches, and movies. I miss trips, romantic dinners, and nights with friends.

When a woman faces a life change, it’s important not to sabotage her thoughts, as they ultimately produce new growth. Building resilience and support networks within communities can significantly enhance mental health outcomes, supporting individuals through their journeys. As I mentioned, I advise putting on your “big girl pants” and springing forward. It is March! A holistic approach to mental health and well-being is essential for navigating these transitions.

From Chivas Regal to Ensure: The Transitions of a Charmed Life

Our Holistic Approach

Our holistic approach to counselling is centered around the individual needs of each person. In Katy, we provide various therapeutic services and life coaching opportunities, emphasizing tailored support for issues such as marriage counseling, addiction recovery, trauma therapy, and individual counseling. We believe that every person is unique, and our partnered counsellors work with each client to develop a personalized plan to build resilience and promote well-being. Our strengths-based approach focuses on the individual’s strengths and abilities, rather than their weaknesses, and we work to create a supportive network of relationships that foster growth and development. We are proud to offer a range of programs and services that cater to the diverse needs of our clients, including children, families, and individuals struggling with anxiety, addiction, or grief, with each session tailored to their unique needs.

Creating a Safe Environment

At Redefine Life, we are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for our clients. Our team of experienced counsellors is dedicated to providing a space where individuals can feel comfortable sharing their stories and working through challenges, with easy contact options for ongoing support. To access detailed information and forms, clients may need to sign in or create an account. We believe that everyone deserves to have access to quality mental health services, and we are proud to offer our services at a lower cost than standard industry rates. Our online model allows us to reach individuals in remote areas and provide long-term care and support. We are passionate about empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being, and we are committed to providing the highest level of care and support to our clients. Whether you are struggling with trauma, seeking support for a loved one, or simply looking for a safe space to talk, we are here to support you on your journey towards healing and recovery.

New Passions and New Possibilities

As I sit here, I’ll share a portion of my positive growth journey.

Since my husband’s illness, I’ve experienced personal growth. This quote perfectly sums up my feelings: “Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

Fear has never stopped me. Please don’t let it stop you. Fear of the unknown stops many women from challenging themselves. Don’t let fear rule you. You are in control. Take a deep breath, do your due diligence, and take the plunge! Don’t miss out on personal growth and golden opportunities because of fear. When you do that, you diminish yourself.

Our services are available both locally in Katy and online throughout Texas, making them accessible to a broader audience across the state.

The thought of fear enters my mind initially, but it doesn’t stop me. I’ve taken many plunges and gained immense satisfaction.

I’ve reached a plateau where I am a whole woman, comfortable in my own skin. That’s how I want you to feel. Fear creates stagnation, while self-growth takes courage and is gratifying. Ongoing education in promoting mental health resources and strategies can also play a crucial role in fostering awareness and resilience within our communities.

So, put away doubts and climb those stairs, even if it means huffing and puffing. Sometimes, it’s okay to slow down and take things one step at a time.

I HAVE huffed and puffed.

Tackling Challenges

Over the past months, I’ve learned coping strategies from wise advice, reading, and experience. These strategies have brought me genuine relief and much-needed assistance in managing my mental well-being.

Minimal wait times for accessing support have been essential in providing timely assistance, significantly impacting my emotional well-being and recovery process.

I’ve had to take on many responsibilities previously handled by my husband, which has been challenging.

I bought a car and learned to handle our finances – two big challenges tackled! While not exactly a walk in the park, they’ve made me wiser.

Purchasing a car on my own was the biggest hurdle. I spent hours researching, talking to salespeople, and test driving different vehicles.

The young man selling me the car jokingly said, “You’ve become my favorite customer, but you’re killing me, Smalls… like in the movie Sandlot!” We both laughed.

I confess, I didn’t sleep well the first night, wondering if I’d made the right choice. But the next morning, I knew I had. This car feels like a perfect fit, and my husband loves it too. One reason I chose this brand is because it’s the same one he picked me up in on our first date. He’s always with me, even in spirit.

Creating a flexible and person-centered support system has been crucial in navigating these new challenges, helping to fill the gaps left by traditional services.

Facing the Future with Hope

I also decided to get involved with a charitable organization. After a year of research and personal conversations, I finally found a cause that resonated deeply with me, rekindling my interest in giving back, something I’ve been passionate about since my twenties. Meeting the organization’s representatives and learning their story ignited a spark within me. Their vision of providing accessible mental health support and their commitment to removing barriers associated with privilege truly inspired me.

This journey led me to explore redefine life holistic psychotherapy, a therapeutic approach that emphasizes inner healing and personal growth, especially for those dealing with significant life changes and relationship issues.

Joining a book club and volunteering to lead the discussion at our condo added another dimension to my life. I also continued Pilates while adding yoga twice a week to my routine.

New friendships blossomed as well. Several women in the building reached out to offer their support when my husband became ill. They’re true gems.

I maintain close ties with my friends across the country, though I miss having them closer. I cherish their connection and support.

Recently, after learning about the prevalence of estranged parent-child relationships, I decided to “come out full force” and publicly disclose my own experience. An article in the New York Times resonated deeply, highlighting the struggles of 67 million parents facing the pain of estrangement.

Inspired by this article, I created a private Facebook group called “Estranged Mothers and Grandmothers: Millions Strong” to offer support and connection to others facing similar challenges.

I manage most of my work on Honey Good and my private Facebook groups while my husband is asleep or attending therapy sessions. The organization I support is dedicated to breaking down barriers that prevent access to essential services, ensuring everyone can receive the help they need to thrive.

Choosing to Rise

Like a Whirling Dervish I saw perform in a restaurant in Damascus, Syria, my life is a whirlwind of activity. Some are pleasant, some frustrating, some grueling, some special, some sweet, some reflective, some creative, and even some brand new, like emerging from a cocoon. I’m using my talents to the best of my ability, for myself, my husband, and our future together.

My life has undeniably changed, and I miss aspects of what it used to be more than words can express. However, I remain hopeful for continued improvement. Regardless of what the future holds, I have a choice: rise or sink.

Redefine life holistic psychotherapy can be a supportive method for individuals dealing with significant life changes and relationship issues, emphasizing a compassionate and tailored experience in their services.

And I choose to rise. So can you.

Use your mind, explore your options, and chase your dreams – a new career, a move, a new relationship, a special trip. You have the power within you. Use it! Focus your resources and support towards specific goals, and you will see the difference. Achieving a sustainable work/life balance at your own pace is crucial for better health outcomes and overall well-being. Amen.

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Come find your supportive community of like-minded women! Join these private Facebook groups:

 Women over 50: Celebrate Visibility

Sisters in Widowhood: Life Transition

 Estranged Mothers and Grandmothers: Millions Strong