Tag: selfhelp

How to Share Life’s Challenges

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“In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” – Albert Einstein

In 2009 when I had to tell my parents that my husband and I had separated, I agonized over having the conversation. It meant that I not only had to manage my emotions about what was going on but also be prepared for theirs. It turned out to be a great conversation because I no longer needed to maintain a veneer that everything was okay.

I’m thinking about this conversation because I was just talking with the thought-provoking and inspiring blogger and retirement coach, Michelle Oram, about how to share life’s challenges on the How To Share podcast. She reminded me that when we share the difficult things we are going through, we open up ourselves to support.

In this podcast episode, Michelle shares her experiences and insights on how to navigate life’s challenges, particularly in sharing difficult news such as a cancer diagnosis. She discusses the importance of prioritizing who to share with, the emotional fatigue that can come from repeated sharing, and the value of support from both close friends and strangers. Our conversation also touches on the nuances of communication in personal versus professional contexts, and how these experiences shape our understanding of support and empathy. I also got to hear about Michelle’s new venture in retirement coaching, emphasizing the emotional aspects of transitioning into retirement.

Takeaways

  • Navigating life’s challenges requires thoughtful communication.
  • Prioritizing who to share difficult news with is crucial.
  • Sharing can open doors to support and help.
  • It’s okay to use different methods to communicate news.
  • Listening is more important than talking when supporting others.
  • People often don’t know what to say, so guidance is helpful.
  • Empathy grows from personal experiences with challenges.
  • Support can come from unexpected places.
  • Retirement can be a significant life change that requires preparation.

Here’s a short clip from our episode to give you a taste of the great conversation. Michelle’s comments about the power of open communication match my experience telling my parents about my breakup and more – when we share life’s challenges, it allows others to be able to support us.

Here are some ways you can listen and watch to the full episode:

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Who's In Your Corner? The 5 People Who Shape Who You Are – The Life of Try: Personal growth, one try at a time.

Who’s in your corner? Discover the five people who shape who you are and how the right support system helps you take bold tries, chase big goals, and grow.Neuroscientist David Eagleman suggests we’re shaped by the people we spend the most time with.In this episode of Life of Try, Wynne Leon shares stories from climbing Mt. Rainier, mentors who cheer from the sidelines, and hiking with her kids to reveal the five people everyone needs:The Yes’ers who turn crazy ideas into plans. The Guides who share their notes. The Counterpoint who gives you the gift of a pause. The Foundation who shows up when things fall apart. The Visionaries who remind you that you can do great things.This week’s challenge:Name your five, thank one of them, and be that person for someone else. Because you were never meant to try alone.For a companion listen, check out The Power of Saying Yes with Natasha Dillinger.Follow Life of Try on Spotify and tap the bell so you never miss the next try. Topics:personal growth, motivation, friendship, mentorship, courage, support systems, and adventure.
  1. Who's In Your Corner? The 5 People Who Shape Who You Are
  2. The Arrival Fallacy: Finding Your Way After a Big Goal
  3. Melissa Arnot Reid on Enough: Why No Summit Can Prove Your Worth
  4. Unleash Your Humanity: Courage, Resilience & Purpose with Yasmine Sherif
  5. Stop Hustling For Your Worth: A Better Way to Grow

Links for this episode:

Michelle Oram’s blog: Boomer Eco Crusader

12 things you should never say to someone with cancer – Boomer Eco Crusader

Best ways to support someone with cancer – Boomer Eco Crusader

Michelle Oram’s Second Life Vision retirement coaching