I recorded this episode on the 4th of July, a day that symbolizes freedom — but for many of us, true freedom starts when we stop shrinking to make others comfortable.

Last week, we talked about the invisible ways we try to stay lovable by making ourselves small. This week, I want to speak to the sting of being seen as your old self — even after you’ve done the inner work.

You’ve changed. But what happens when the people closest to you don’t see it...

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Why it’s painful when your growth isn’t acknowledged

• What “shrink scripts” are and how they’ve shaped you

• The grief of being seen as your past self — and how to name it

• Reframes and mindset shifts to stay rooted in your progress

• Tools to protect your expansion

• Why your nervous system isn’t sabotaging you — it’s trying to protect you

• How to stop outsourcing your validation and declare your evolution

Your next step:

Close your eyes, hand on your chest, and repeat: “I’ve changed. I’m still changing. And I don’t need permission to keep evolving.”

Then ask yourself: What’s one truth I’m ready to stand in — even if no one claps yet?

RESOURCES:

• Join my Newsletter, Unlearn and Unleash
• Join the Next Breakthrough Master Class here
• Register for the Next Melanin Hour here
• Book a Breakthrough Call here
• Share Your Takeaways With Me at brig@brigjohnson.com
• Take the Stress Quiz

Stay Connected

• Instagram → @brigjohnsoncoaching
• Facebook → Brig Johnson Coaching
• Website → www.brigjohnson.com