Have you ever been in a relationship that was out of balance? It probably began normally, but somewhere along the way, it became all about the other person. Their happiness, their well-being, and their needs had to be met first, and what you wanted or needed didn't seem to matter. But the odd thing was, you stayed awhile or maybe are still in this type of relationship. This could be because of codependency. Codependency is a common issue that can affect anyone, but the good news is that you can overcome it. In this blog post, we'll go over what codependency is, and I will share some practical steps to break free from it and regain control of your life.

​What is Codependency?

Codependency is a complex pattern of behaviors and emotions that often develop in relationships where one person consistently puts the needs of the other before their own. It can manifest in various ways, but some common signs of codependency include:

1. Excessive People-Pleasing: You might find yourself constantly doing things for others, even if it means sacrificing your needs and desires.

2. Difficulty Setting Boundaries: You may struggle with saying "no" and setting healthy boundaries in your relationships, fearing it will upset or disappoint others.

3. Fear of Abandonment: You might go to great lengths to avoid being alone or fear rejection and abandonment by loved ones.

4. Losing Your Identity: Codependency can lead to losing your sense of self as you become overly focused on the needs and wants of others.

Can you beat codependency?

How to Beat Codependency

1. Self-Awareness: The first step is recognizing that you're in a codependent situation. Self-awareness is crucial for any personal growth journey. Take some time to reflect on your behavior and emotions in your relationships. Are you consistently putting others' needs before your own? Are you afraid to be alone? If so, you may have some codependent tendencies.

2. Seek Support: It's essential to reach out for help. This could be in the form of a therapist, counselor, life coach, or a trusted friend or family member. They can provide guidance, encouragement, and a safe space to discuss your feelings and experiences.

3. Establish Boundaries: Learning to set and maintain healthy boundaries is key to overcoming codependency. Practice saying "no" when you need to and respect your limits. It's not selfish to prioritize your well-being.

4. Self-Care: Invest time in self-care activities that promote your physical and emotional health. This could include exercise, meditation, journaling, or pursuing hobbies and interests that make you happy.

5. Boost Self-Esteem: Work on improving your self-esteem by recognizing your worth independent of others' opinions. Self-affirmations, self-compassion, and positive self-talk can help with this.

6. Independence: Focus on reclaiming your independence and personal identity. Reconnect with your interests and values. Rediscover who you are outside of your relationships.

7. Communication: Open, honest, and assertive communication is key. Express your needs, wants, and feelings in a healthy way, without fear of rejection or judgment.

8. Take Small Steps: Overcoming codependency is a process that takes time. Don't rush it. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress, no matter how small.

Codependency is a challenging pattern to break, but with self-awareness, and support, you can overcome it. Remember that you deserve happiness and healthy relationships just as much as anyone else. By taking these steps, you can reclaim your independence and build more fulfilling connections with others while maintaining your well-being. Don't be afraid to seek help when needed; it's a sign of strength and a crucial part of the healing process.

I hope you found this mini-guide helpful. If you have questions or need more info. please reach out.
Reiki Blessings,
​Sarah

​1. Your Schedule:
Why: A well-organised schedule ensures that you make time for what matters most, reduces stress, and increases productivity.
Benefits:

• Better time management
• Reduced stress levels
• Improved work-life balance

How to Organise: Use digital or physical planners to schedule your tasks and appointments, prfioritize them, and allocate time blocks for focused work and relaxation.

2. Work:
Why: An organised work life leads to higher efficiency, increased job satisfaction, and more significant career growth opportunities.
Benefits:

• Enhanced productivity
• Reduced work-related stress
• Career Advancement

How to Organise: Create a to-do list, set clear goals, declutter your workspace, and establish routines for tackling tasks efficiently.

3. Money:
Why: Organising your finances helps you achieve financial stability, reduce debt, and work toward your financial goals.
Benefits:

• Financial security
• Reduced financial stress
• Increased savings and investments

How to Organise: Create a budget, track your expenses, set financial goals, and automate bill payments and savings contributions.

4. Meals:
Why: Planning and organising meals leads to healthier eating habits, better nutrition, and time savings.
Benefits:

• Improved health and well-being
• Saved time and money
• Reduced food waste

How to Organise: Meal plan, prepare ingredients in advance, and cook in batches to streamline mealtime and make healthier choices.

5. Routines:
Why: Organised daily routines establish consistency, reduce decision fatigue, and foster positive habits.
Benefits:

• Increased efficiency
• Better mental and emotional well-being
• Improved self-discipline

How to Organise: Create morning and evening routines, incorporate regular exercise and self-care, and establish a bedtime routine for better sleep.

Organising these five key areas of your life isn't about creating rigid structures; it's about empowering yourself to live more intentionally and authentically. By doing so, you'll find more time for what truly matters, reduce stress, and create a foundation for achieving your goals.

Grab the FREE checklist printable (2nd picture minus the crystals) that goes with this blog post: sarahparkerthomas.podia.com/checklist-life-organisation
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Speak soon,

Sarah

The Benefits of Positive Self Talk
We all have an internal dialogue that runs non-stop throughout the day, but few of us realize just how much our self-talk affects our lives. By learning to harness the power of positive self-talk, we can cultivate a more optimistic and resilient mindset that will help us navigate life's ups and downs with grace and ease.

So what exactly is positive self-talk? 
Essentially, it involves consciously replacing negative thoughts with more positive, empowering ones. Instead of focusing on what you can't do, for example, you might reframe your thoughts to focus on what you can achieve. By doing so, you'll begin to see yourself and your abilities in a more positive light, which can be a game-changer when it comes to achieving your goals.

Here are some tips for developing positive self-talk:

1. Start by paying attention to your inner dialogue. Notice when negative thoughts come up and make a conscious effort to replace them with more positive ones.
2. Use affirmations to reinforce positive beliefs about yourself. For example, you might say to yourself, "I am capable and deserving of success."
3. Surround yourself with positive influences, such as uplifting books, podcasts, or friends who support and encourage you.
4. Practice gratitude by focusing on the things you're grateful for in your life. This can help shift your mindset away from negativity and towards a more positive outlook.

The benefits of positive self-talk go beyond just feeling good. Research has shown that individuals who engage in positive self-talk are more likely to achieve their goals, have stronger relationships, and enjoy better mental health. By cultivating a more positive and empowered mindset, you'll be better equipped to navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience.
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Self-Talk and Relationships 
In relationships, positive self-talk can be particularly important. When we're able to see ourselves in a positive light, we're more likely to attract and maintain healthy relationships with others. This is because we approach relationships with confidence and self-assuredness, rather than insecurity and self-doubt. By practicing positive self-talk, you can cultivate the self-esteem and self-worth that will enable you to attract the kind of relationships you deserve.

Positive self-talk is a simple yet powerful tool that can help you achieve your goals, cultivate stronger relationships, and enjoy better mental health. By learning to harness the power of your thoughts, you can create a more positive and fulfilling life for yourself. 

Start practicing positive self-talk today and see the transformation for yourself!

Reiki Blessings,
Sarah