THE VOICE IN MY HEAD WASN’T ORIGINALLY MINE

From the ANM archive · Story Saturday · Original social post: 18 July 11:08

THE VOICE IN MY HEAD WASN’T ORIGINALLY MINE.

For years, it said:

“You’re lazy.”“You’re too sensitive.”“You’re difficult.”“You should be able to cope.”

Eventually, I stopped hearing those words as other people’s opinions.

They became my own.

I blamed myself for struggling to begin tasks.

I felt weak when noise overwhelmed me.

I apologised for needing space.

I felt guilty for resting.

That is how shame moves inside.

But I am learning to question that voice.

“I’m lazy” becomes:“I’m struggling to start.”

“I’m weak” becomes:“My senses are overwhelmed.”

“I’m failing” becomes:“I need support.”

The voice may sound like yours now.

That does not mean it is telling the truth.

Save this for the days when shame gets loud. ❤️

Read and share the full ANM article on the Through My Lens newsletter: Understanding the role culture plays in internalised ableism, stigma, and self-worth in Zimbabwe

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/wadzanai-mandibvira-a4b86641a_ugcPost-7483999283482959875-S5hC/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAGqO1FsB2BJTSQyZTwk4tLOo9GdlXqiTck8

What harsh belief about yourself are you ready to question?

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