Have you ever been so embarrassed by something that it stopped you from speaking your truth? Growing up, I faced that head-on with my less-than-glamorous home address and a visible eye condition that made me self-conscious. This week on “Have a Cup of Johanny,” we kickstart this August theme, “How We Sabotage Our Conversations,” by tackling the fears that hold us back from honest communication. Using my own stories, I shed light on the common fears of embarrassment and confrontation that often keep us from having open and genuine conversations.

Imagine avoiding confrontation your whole life because of childhood experiences of being shut down. That’s a reality for many, and it’s a key topic in this episode. I share how such experiences shape our communication habits, creating a false image of ourselves just to keep the peace. This false image can erode trust and build barriers in our relationships. Together, we explore the importance of transparency and how we can break these damaging habits to foster more meaningful connections.

Lastly, we journey into self-love and confidence. Born with a lazy eye, I had to learn to embrace my uniqueness both externally and internally. Through practices like journaling and being honest in small matters, I’ve found a path to true self-awareness and self-acceptance. These practices not only help build self-love but also improve our communication, making our interactions more genuine. Don’t forget to engage with our community by leaving your thoughts and comments. Join me next Wednesday as we continue to grow and learn to speak our truths, even when it’s tough.