Growing up in a family where a parent constantly tears you down with criticism or negativity can leave emotional scars. When you’re told you’re stupid, or lazy, or too full of yourself, it’s easy for those harsh words to not internalize as being truths. If an adult is telling you these things, are they not true?

As children, we seek love and approval from the people who raise us. When that approval is replaced by constant criticism or negative, demeaning language, it sends loud and clear messages that are not good to hear.

This kind of emotional pattern is incredibly damaging, but by understanding the impact of those words on you then, and taking the steps to rebuild your self-worth, you can redefine who you are now on your own terms.

Why Do Parents Do This?

Understanding why a parent might repeatedly criticize or demean their child certainly doesn’t excuse their behavior, but it can provide insights into their motivations. Often, the negativity they direct toward their child is a symptom of their own struggles, fears, or limitations. Continue reading →

If you grew up in an environment where trust was betrayed, or love felt conditional, it’s no surprise that forming healthy relationships might feel hard. Your past experiences can teach you that love comes with strings attached and that trust is a risky gamble.

What makes this even harder is that your early relationships shape how you see yourself and the world. If those relationships were rooted in dysfunction, you might carry an unconscious belief that people will always let you down or that love is something you must earn.

Why It’s Hard to Trust and What You Can Do

It’s okay to admit that trusting people doesn’t come easy for you. If you’ve been hurt before, especially by the very people meant to care for you, it’s only natural to be cautious. After all, our instinct is to protect ourselves from further pain, and we are always ready to do that. Continue reading →