Recognizing Your Strength in the Face of Complex Trauma

Complex trauma often hides the truth of your resilience, leaving you feeling unworthy or “not enough.” The negative messages you may have internalized—“You’re not good enough,” “You don’t contribute enough”—are often the complete opposite of reality. These harmful beliefs are often echoes of what you’ve been told or what your trauma has made you believe about yourself.

The truth is, reaching success, even while carrying the weight of past and present traumas, requires immense strength, perseverance, and an innate ability to adapt. Yet, despite this reality, your inner voice may still tell you otherwise, creating a heartbreaking disconnect between your truth and your self-perception.

One of the most profound impacts of trauma is how it reshapes your beliefs about yourself, making everyday experiences—like interacting with others or striving toward your goals—feel more difficult than they should.

If this resonates with you, I want you to know that these beliefs are not your truth. They are the distorted echoes of your trauma and the people who hurt you. You are resilient, strong, capable, and, most importantly, deserving of love and respect.

In order for healing to truly happen, it is imperative to distance yourself from the people or experiences that have led you to believe these things. Creating a space that is healthy and supportive for yourself and your family is an essential act of self-care. It’s okay to forgive those who hurt you, recognizing that their actions may have been shaped by their own lived experiences. However, forgiveness does not mean sacrificing your well-being—it means prioritizing your healing and choosing to move forward in an environment where you can thrive.

You also deserve to add people and experiences to your life that see and value all that you are. Surrounding yourself with those who uplift you, celebrate your strengths, and appreciate your unique journey can help you rebuild your self-worth and move toward a life that aligns with your true value.

You are more powerful than your past, and your strength is undeniable. Healing begins when you reclaim the truth of your worth, create a life that honors your resilience, and fill your world with connections that affirm your value.