7 Ways to Stop Merely Surviving and Finally Start Living Unapologetically in 2023
As a trauma survivor, and a child-trafficking survivor, I know the pain and struggles of merely surviving in a world that can be hostile and unforgiving. But in 2023, it’s time to stop the cycle of ‘surviving’ and finally start living unapologetically.
Living unapologetically means living a bold and authentic life, without fear or shame, and without compromising your values or beliefs. It means standing up for yourself and your rights, and living according to your own principles and standards. And as a follower of Christ, living unapologetically means living a life that is guided and inspired by the teachings and examples of Jesus.
But how can you start living unapologetically in 2023, as a trauma survivor? Here are 7 practical and powerful ways to break free from the cycle of survival and start living a bold and authentic life:
Setting Boundaries: Protecting Yourself and Asserting Your Needs
1. Set boundaries.
One of the key challenges of living unapologetically as a trauma survivor is dealing with the effects of trauma and abuse. These experiences can leave you feeling vulnerable and powerless, and they can also make it difficult to assert your boundaries and protect yourself from further harm.
But setting boundaries is essential for living unapologetically. It means communicating your needs and expectations clearly and firmly, and it also means saying “no” when necessary, and not allowing others to violate your boundaries. Setting boundaries can help you feel more in control of your life and your relationships, and it can also help you build healthier and more fulfilling connections with others.
Practicing Self-Care: Nurturing Your Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Well-Being
2. Practice self-care.
Another important aspect of living unapologetically is practicing self-care. This means taking care of your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, and making sure that you are meeting your own needs and fulfilling your own desires.
Self-care can involve activities like exercise, meditation, or journaling, as well as healthy habits like eating well and getting enough sleep. It can also involve setting aside time for relaxation and enjoyment, and doing things that make you happy and fulfilled. By practicing self-care, you can nurture your own well-being and resilience, and you can also build the foundation for a bold and authentic life.
Finding Your Purpose: Discovering Your Passion and Direction in Life
3. Find your purpose.
Another key element of living unapologetically is finding your purpose. This means discovering what you are passionate about and what you are called to do in the world, and it also means pursuing your goals and dreams with determination and perseverance.
Finding your purpose can be a challenging and rewarding process, and it can involve exploring your interests, skills, and values, and trying out new things. It can also involve seeking guidance and support from others, and taking risks and making sacrifices. But by finding your purpose, you can gain a sense of direction and meaning in your life, and you can also create opportunities for growth and fulfillment.
Building a Supportive Community: Surrounding Yourself with Encouragement and Connection
4. Build a supportive community.
As a trauma survivor, you may have experienced isolation and rejection from others. But to live unapologetically, you need to surround yourself with a supportive and nurturing community.
A supportive community can provide you with the encouragement and guidance you need to live a bold and authentic life. It can also provide you with a sense of belonging and connection, and it can help you build healthy and fulfilling relationships. You can find a supportive community in your church, your family, your friends, or your support groups, and you can also create your own community of like-minded individuals who share your values and goals.
Taking Risks and Learning from Failure: Embracing Challenges and Growth
5. Take risks and learn from failure.
Another aspect of living unapologetically is taking risks and learning from failure. This means stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new things, even if they are challenging or risky. It also means being open to feedback and criticism, and using these experiences as opportunities for growth and learning.
Taking risks and learning from failure can be scary and intimidating, especially if you are a trauma survivor or child-trafficking survivor. But by taking risks, you can expand your horizons and discover new possibilities for yourself. You can also learn valuable lessons from your mistakes and setbacks, and you can use these experiences to become more resilient and resourceful. And by learning from failure, you can also develop a growth mindset and a positive attitude, and you can build the confidence and courage you need to start living unapologetically.
Speaking Up and Standing Up: Advocating for Yourself and Others
6. Be true to yourself.
Another crucial aspect of living unapologetically is being true to yourself. This means being authentic and genuine, and not pretending to be someone you are not. It also means being honest and transparent, and not hiding or denying your true feelings, thoughts, or beliefs.
Being true to yourself can be difficult, especially if you have experienced trauma or abuse. But by being true to yourself, you can develop a strong and healthy sense of self-worth and self-respect. You can also build trust and integrity in your relationships, and you can create opportunities for growth and connection. And by being true to yourself, you can also live a life that is authentic and fulfilling, and that is aligned with your values and beliefs.
Embracing Your Bold and Authentic Life as a Trauma Survivor
7. Follow Christ.
Finally, to live unapologetically as a trauma survivor, follow Christ. This means seeking guidance and inspiration from Jesus, and living according to his teachings and examples. It also means building a personal relationship with Christ, and trusting in his love, grace, and guidance.
Following Christ can be a challenging and rewarding journey, and it can involve making sacrifices and overcoming obstacles. But by following Christ, you can gain a sense of direction and purpose in your life, and you can also find comfort, hope, and strength in his love. You can also learn valuable lessons from Christ’s life and teachings, and you can use these lessons to live a bold and authentic life that is guided by faith, hope, and love.
To start living unapologetically as a trauma survivor is a challenging but rewarding journey. By following these 7 practical and powerful strategies, you can begin the process to break free from the cycle of survival and start living a bold and authentic life in 2023. From setting boundaries and practicing self-care, to finding your purpose and building a supportive community, these strategies can help you live unapologetically and joyfully, as a follower of Christ.
Want to learn more about living unapologetically as a trauma survivor or child-trafficking survivor? Check out our journal products and digital resources for guidance, support, and inspiration. From decision-making tools to language learning resources, we have everything you need to live a bold and authentic life in 2023.
