Self Belief Unsquashed

Finally! I have a guest! The lovely Lisa de Caux - professional copy editor and proofreader extraordinaire - spills the tea on self-doubt traps she experienced during the very early days of setting up her business (LdC Editorial).  She survived - she learnt - and she is showing up to share.

From the networking event nightmare to the 'tweed jacket' conundrum and mum-business woman juggling act - grab a cuppa and listen, laugh a li...

In this episode, I'm turning detective on a fresh perspective on people pleasing and its surprising knock-on effects. You might know that constantly trying to please others stems from a fear of rejection, which, incredibly, activates the same parts of your brain as physical pain. But have you considered how this habit can lead to feeling silently annoyed, then angry, and ultimately to losing your temper out of the frustration of no...

This episode explores the guilt and discomfort associated with setting personal boundaries. We examine the fear of being perceived as selfish or weak that often prevents individuals from saying no or withdrawing from unwanted commitments. I introduce the concept of "fawning" as a potential trauma response related to people-pleasing. As always I offer some reframes and tips to help you recognise these feelings, prioritise their well...

This podcast episode explores the common struggle of articulating one's skills and achievements without appearing boastful. It identifies this reluctance as a "dumbing down disaster" stemming from fears of being judged as a show-off, often rooted in past experiences and societal pressures.

The episode explores these underlying fears and assumptions, suggesting that sharing genuine expertise is distinct from bragging and can even em...

In this episode of Self-Belief Unsquashed, I'm diving into something I think a lot of us can relate to: the 'too nice trap'. (It's one of the chapters in my book in fact!). Have you ever wondered if being too nice might actually be holding you back, or even making you feel like a bit of a fraud? That's exactly what we're unpicking today, inspired by the classic book, "If I'm So Successful, Why Do I Feel Like a Fake?" by Harvey and ...

In this episode, I delve into the fascinating realm of non-intentional triggers and how they can lead to overblown reactions and negative inner dialogues. Through four relatable stories from my life, I explore how past experiences, like childhood sports memories and family dynamics, shape our sensitivities and triggering points today.

This is about the importance of awareness and control over our emotional responses. You will learn...

In these stressful times, we often forget the simplest antidote to our troubles – laughter. In this episode we explore the profound effects laughter can have on our mental and physical health, presenting historical anecdotes and scientific research to validate these claims. And it all starts with laughter - listen!

Discover how a practice as old as time can relieve stress, boost your immune system, and enhance the quality of your r...

In this episode, I explore the concept of biorhythms and how they impact our daily fluctuations in energy and mood - something we all experience. What is the connection between your body and mind? With insights from "How Emotions Are Made" by Lisa Feldman Barrett, I highlight the importance of treating low moments as temporary - observe and understand your body's signals.

Through personal anecdotes, such as experiences at the climb...

In this episode, I delve into the widely accepted notion that staying in your comfort zone can be akin to stagnation or even a proverbial "graveyard" for dreams and ideas. But is it necessary to always step out of one's comfort zone to grow, or is there value in staying cozy and enjoying the comfort it offers?

Join me as I explore personal stories of embracing challenges and rediscovering passions, alongside insights and theories f...

In this episode of "Self-Belief Unsquashed," Trisha Lewis encourages listeners to explore shifts in perspective that can lead to profound self-discovery. Through personal anecdotes and thoughtful reflections, Trisha highlights the transformative power of viewing ourselves through different lenses. She shares a heartwarming story of reconnecting with an old friend and how it provided surprising insights into her own identity, challe...

Join me for an inspiring episode of Self-Belief Unsquashed as we kick off 2025 with the exciting Green Eggs and Ham Challenge. Inspired by Dr. Seuss, this episode encourages listeners to conquer one fear this year by trying something new and outside their comfort zone. Discover how taking small steps can lead to significant personal growth and unexpected joy.

Listen to personal stories of overcoming challenges and finding new passi...

This episode explores the complexities of imposter syndrome, a feeling of inadequacy despite evidence of success. We delve into the idea that instead of viewing imposter syndrome as solely a negative experience, you can reframe it as a catalyst for growth and learning. Could the feeling act as a motivator to push past comfort zones, embrace vulnerability, and acquire new knowledge. We consider the importance of self-awareness, a gr...

Ever been at a social event on your own and with loads of strangers - wedding, awards ceremony, business networking - and felt suffocated by self-consciousness - the kind that leaves you mute and convinced that everyone is looking at the way you hold your knife and fork - that sort of thing? I have! This episode explores the symptoms, drivers and then offers some very good tips to stop the torture!

References:

You Learn by Living...

That self generated feeling of being an outsider when with a group of people - familiar? New word - 'self-outsidering'. What are the symptons and drivers of this unhelpful self-squashing feeling - and what reframes and actions might help.

The 'self' part of this is the key! You are doing it to yourself. Something has triggered this 'outsider' feeling - what might it be? What are the FIBs that are holding you back - fears, illusions...

You want to stand out with more confident, heart-led copy and content. You want to delve into your creative mindset - but a host of fears, illusions and bits of baggage - hold you back.

My guest Bee Higgins gets it! She feels it herself and she has tons of experience and expertise in creative writing. Bee is a messaging mentor who doesn't offer top tip templates for writing success - she offers insights and practical ideas on putti...

This episode explores the tension between wanting to make and impact and wanting to conform to the norm. Is it possible to do both? What are the symptoms of too much blending in or even too much standing out - when you are not coming from a place of 'you-ness'?

As always we look at the symptoms, drivers and then possible solutions to try out. As always I refer to a book or two and some areas that you might want to explore more - if...

Do you have a recurring flush of embarrasement or even shame well after you have done something stupid? Do you dwell on the stuff you messed up on? Do you worry too much about what people think about you?

Welcome to another episode that explores the human stuff - the stuff that can sometimes hold you back and stop your JIG - joy, impact and growth!

The potential to self-sabotage is in us all - and dwelling on the things that didn't...