Description

I share a real-time reflection after experiencing my first two unsubscribes — and what surprised me most wasn’t the unsubscribes themselves, but how deeply my body reacted.

This conversation explores what rejection can stir beneath the surface: the pull toward validation, the instinct to people-please, and the quiet belief that being liked equals being safe. From there, I unpack what it looks like to stay rooted in self-worth without editing yourself to be more palatable.

This episode is about choosing authenticity over approval, effort over perfection, and compassion over self-criticism — especially when growth feels uncomfortable.

In this episode, I explore:

• Why rejection can hit the nervous system before the mind
• How approval-seeking shows up even after years of inner work
• The cost of people-pleasing and self-abandonment
• Why imperfection is essential for real connection
• How praising effort builds resilience and self-trust

Key takeaways:

• Rejection doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong
• Self-acceptance is an ongoing practice, not a finish line
• Authenticity naturally filters your audience — and that’s a gift
• You don’t need to be perfect; you just need to stay with yourself

Memorable quotes:

• “It hit my system.”
• “What do I need to know?”
• “You just get to be you.”

If this episode resonates, I’d love for you to:

• Follow the show so you don’t miss future episodes
• Share it with someone who might need this reminder
• Or simply take a breath and notice where you can offer yourself a little more compassion today

If you want coaching on this or owning all aspects of your life, email ashley@herointhemirror.com to see if we're a fit.

Remember: nothing has gone wrong.
Be the hero in the mirror. 💛