Cultivating Curiosity, Compassion and Courage for Growth with Vicky Otter

Cultivating Curiosity, Compassion and Courage for Growth with Vicky Otter

Many of us carry a quiet sense of not enoughness through life. It can appear in different ways – feeling too quiet, too shy, too serious, too emotional, too loud, or not brave, confident or relaxed enough. However it shows up, this sense of lack can shape how we see ourselves and how we move…

“Everyone Does It” – Just Because It’s ‘Normal’ Doesn’t Mean It’s Fair

“Everyone Does It” – Just Because It’s ‘Normal’ Doesn’t Mean It’s Fair

Sometimes, in relationships—whether friendships, family, work, or dating—something doesn’t sit right. Someone cancels plans last minute without apology. A friend jokes at your expense in a way that feels uncomfortable. A colleague constantly interrupts you in meetings. When you express discomfort, the response might be: “That’s just how people are.” “Everyone does it.” “You’re overthinking…

5 Skills That Help You Build Nurturing Relationships
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5 Skills That Help You Build Nurturing Relationships

We long for gentle relationships. To feel safe and seen with others, and to offer that same safety in return. Whether it’s a partner, a friend, or a colleague, we hope for connection that feels kind, consistent, and nourishing. But even when that desire is strong, we might still find ourselves showing up in a…

Honouring Our Cycles: How the Menstrual Cycle Shapes Social Connection and Why Understanding It Matters
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Honouring Our Cycles: How the Menstrual Cycle Shapes Social Connection and Why Understanding It Matters

The experience of menstruation unfolds in rhythms often unseen and unspoken. Quietly, yet powerfully, our menstrual cycles influence how we feel, think, and show up in the world. And for those of us who identify as quieter, more sensitive, or who experience social anxiety, these changes can feel particularly profound. This is not just about…

Navigating New Territory: Embracing the Messy Middle with Self-Compassion

Navigating New Territory: Embracing the Messy Middle with Self-Compassion

There are moments in life when the path ahead seems unfamiliar and the way forward unclear. When you find yourself stepping into new territory without a map, it can feel as if every step is a leap into the unknown. Yet, these moments, challenging as they may be, also hold the seeds of growth, transformation,…

The Power of Kindness: Being Kind Even in the Face of Injustice

The Power of Kindness: Being Kind Even in the Face of Injustice

There’s a simple but profound truth that runs through every culture: kindness is powerful. It can soften hearts, build connections, and even change the course of someone’s day or life. But what about when kindness feels like the last thing we want to offer? What about when someone treats us unjustly? In these moments, being…

The Dark Side of Positivity: Why We Need to Embrace All Emotions for True Happiness

The Dark Side of Positivity: Why We Need to Embrace All Emotions for True Happiness

In a world that often encourages us to “stay positive” and “look on the bright side,” it can be easy to overlook the importance of acknowledging and processing negative emotions. While positivity is generally beneficial, there is a growing recognition of the pitfalls of toxic positivity – the relentless promotion of happy and optimistic states…

Generous Interpretation: Building Bridges of Understanding and Connection
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Generous Interpretation: Building Bridges of Understanding and Connection

In our daily interactions, how often do we assume the worst about others? It’s easy to jump to negative conclusions, especially when we feel slighted or misunderstood. However, there’s a powerful concept championed by Brené Brown and supported by various research studies that can transform our relationships and foster a more inclusive and connected community….

Assuming the best in others to grow kindness & connection
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Assuming the best in others to grow kindness & connection

I’m a quiet person. Usually. I get quieter in groups. More so when people are new to me. And because of this, I’ve been misunderstood a lot in my life. I’ve been assumed to be rude, disinterested, stuck up, bitchy, and to dislike people, amongst other things. But that’s not me at all. I’ve always…

Living BIG: Setting Boundaries When You’re a People Pleaser

Living BIG: Setting Boundaries When You’re a People Pleaser

Are you a people pleaser? Do you often say ‘yes’ when you really want to say ‘no’? Do you find yourself feeling resentful and like you’re being taken advantage of? You’re not alone. So many of us find ourselves in this place too; feeling unable to ask for what we need, say no to people…

Quiet Connections Podcast Dr Suzanne Henwood

How to keep healthy boundaries through bullying, people pleasing and fight, flight, freeze – with Dr Suzanne Henwood, Stress & Anxiety Master Coach

Guest: Dr Suzanne Henwood Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn Suzanne Henwood is a stress and anxiety coach; one of only 2 Master Trainers and Master Coaches in mBIT globally, and an NLP Trainer who works closely with ANLP (the Association of NLP) and is the International Ambassador for ANLP in New Zealand. With a PhD in…