Niche

1. niche

     [nich]  

   noun
   

   1.
   

   a place or position suitable or appropriate for a person or thing:to find one's niche in the business world.

   2.
   

   a distinct segment of a market.

   3.
   

   Ecology . the position or function of an organism in a community of plants and animals.

   
   

   I've been thinking about this lately. Where is my niche? Where do I belong? We all need a purpose in life, need to feel secure, and "fit in" where we live. This happens not only when others around us appreciate our efforts and find value in what we do, but in how complete and satisfied we feel where we are at. Our niche may be at home, in causes we believe in, in our spirituality, within our families, among friends, work etc. Are you involved in your community? Do people know you by name? Do you feel like you fit in? These are all good questions to ask yourselves. So find your niche, feel complete, and be proud of who you are!

   
   

Life Transitions

I thought I'd write about life transitions and how bittersweet they can be. I have gone through quite a bit of changes throughout my life, so I know what a toll they can take on our bodies and souls. We all experience transitions in life from graduating college, moving, new jobs, giving birth, losing loved ones etc. Some give us lots of pleasure and others hurt deeply. How do we move forward? For most, it takes time to successfully adjust to new changes, some more quickly than others. But with time, it requires the ability to cope and meet these challenges in a healthy way. By this I mean, finding support, being genuine about what you are feeling to yourself and others, and reaching out for help when you need it. I recall after the birth of my daughter, that I was struggling emotionally with the changes. But I didn't know how to share the struggle without appearing "weak". I would quietly question what was happening, why I couldn't manage this new little bundle of joy? I thought I had all the answers and that I could do it alone. I was experiencing postpartum depression, but was too proud or scared to admit it. Therefore, I didn't get the help that I so needed.

Life happens and we don't always have the resources or wherewith-all to get through life's challenges on our own. Therapy’s is an excellent option. Caring, experienced professionals are out there to help. No strings attached, without the fear of being judged. I wish I had reached out to my physician or therapist, despite being a psychotherapist myself. We all need someone to talk to, to help us through difficult life transitions.