Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: Android | RSS | More
In this week’s #NewBusinessMindset conversation, Laura Silverman talks of her journey into counselling, and of the work she does there. She talks of the importance of vulnerability and gives us some beautiful personal stories of leaning into vulnerability with gentleness and generosity…and she emphasizes the importance of recognizing that it’s okay not to be an expert.
Lessons from the Show
Laura talked to us about her journey through life, from the military through motherhood to different forms of caring, and she offered us many wonderful lessons that point us towards an authentic, happy and fulfilling life and career including:
- At times we are too busy, too afraid, and there are too many obstacles so we ignore our problems; they keep popping up and asking, “Can you hear me now?” but we keep ignoring them,
attempting to sublimate, telling ourselves stories about who we think we are. - You can’t pretend nothing is happening, but you can give your body and mind a break from the stress through mindfulness exercises;
- Don’t confuse “price” and “cost”;
About Laura Silverman – in Laura’s Words!
When I was in high school, I wrote a paper asserting that the greatest malady in humankind is loneliness. Yes, I was fun at parties! Now as a licensed clinical social worker, I can see that loneliness is pervasive and it shows up in a variety of ways. Loneliness dresses up as “different,” “not good enough,” “flawed,” “wounded,” and “scarcity.” My work as a therapist focuses on helping people notice what is present in their lives, as opposed to what is missing. The roadblock to connecting with what is present is often the fear of being viewed as vulnerable.
As a 10-year Navy veteran, single mother of two children, elementary teacher, University of Georgia grad student and now therapist, I know how hard it is to drop the façade of “expert who has it all together.” While it appears to help us for a time, eventually it becomes the block between us and the life we want.
I carry this understanding into my work with individuals grieving loss, coping with changing roles due to illness and disabilities, and trying to figure out who they are in the world – with and despite painful thoughts, feelings and experiences.
We are built for connection, for belonging and within our vulnerability lies the strength to cure loneliness. With mindfulness and self-compassion, I provide a safe space to explore the most tender spots that show each of us what we need and want.
You can contact Laura and find out more about her and her practice at Sweetgrass Integrative Counseling and Therapy, LLC.
This is episode # 180
Leave a Reply