Living In Someone Else’s Shadow

We know when we are living in someone’s shadow when our life and our experiences seem to not be as important as someone else’s.

Somehow, whatever they do seems to be more important that anything in your life. Quite often this person is a Significant Other and someone we really care about.  Which makes it more difficult as we care about them and want what best for them too.

We tend to supress who we are when we are around them as they seem to outshine us.  If it is not because of their bad experiences it’s because of their success. There is always something and always will be.

The problem with living in someone’s shadow is that we miss who we are and tend to devalue ourselves and all we have to offer. It negatively impacts our self-esteem. It hides the special qualities that you and only you, no one else, have.

So how do we turn our own light on? How do we shine ourselves and sparkle in the sun?

Firstly, we acknowledge that you, like me, are also a person.

Your feelings matter and your experiences matter. They may be different to other people’s experiences and feelings but they still matter and are valid. That is what makes you, you!

We might be a bit shy initially, so start by greeting yourself in the mirror. Say “good morning!” to your good self in the mirror. Do it out loud and smile. By doing this it helps you not only see your beautiful smile but also it also helps the conscious mind hear acknowledgement  of you.

Be aware of your feelings and your experiences, feel them and talk about them to someone your trust.