Our wounded inner child dictates a lot of how we show up in relationships, whether it be intimate ones or how we parent our actual child. This chart describes the most common ways I have seen it reveal itself. We become triggered when others around us remind us of our old, unhealed pains. No experience is new, only an echoing reminder of our aching past.
When I first became sober, I also got pregnant. It was then that I began the inner child work journey. I didn’t know how powerful this healing would be 6 years ago. At first I thought it sounded ridiculous. Talking to the little me? Weird. 🤦🏽♀️ But in reality, my younger self needed attention. She needed to feel safe, heard + validated. And I was willing to do anything to live free.
Today I am able to honor myself in ways I was never held or seen before as a child. I can set boundaries + advocate for my needs without guilt. I’m more confident + joy filled because I show up for me first. I understand my triggers + use them as guides. I’m no longer a victim of my old hurts.
If you’re intimidated by this inner child work idea, I see you. I created a guide to get you started. It’s linked in my bio. There’s no perfect way to go about doing it all. But it’s crucial to simply begin. Your relationships will thank you, and so will generations after you. Healing is never wasted. ❤️