I’m starting to hear this everywhere. “I see you.”
 
Its very simplicity is powerful.
 
It wasn’t that long ago that I felt invisible. Not because I was ignored but because so many people were confused or uncomfortable with who I was becoming. Rather than lean in and ask more questions, they changed the subject or pretended not to notice.

Finally, I was prepared to be seen for who I was or do away with those who could not see me in a new way. Drawing that boundary for myself relieved me of that tug-of-war to change another’s perspective.
 
Do you feel seen? 
 
You may be in the middle of a transition like I was or hiding something you think makes you unlovable. Even the most introverted person in the world wants to be visible for who they are at their core.
 
If you don’t feel seen, it’s possible that you are not showing up as the real you or you are with the wrong people. Either way, you deserve to be welcomed on your own merits and through your metamorphosis. We are all still evolving.
 
The power of being seen first comes from within. 
 
Here is a simple exercise to get you started.

• Relax. Gently close your eyes or lower your gaze. Picture in your mind a place or circumstance where you feel unseen. Notice everything about it. Who is there, where are you, and what is your role? How does it make you feel? Feel that resting in your left hand.
• Picture a place or circumstance where you feel seen and welcome. If it doesn’t exist, imagine what it would be like. Again, notice everything about it. Who is there, who is no longer there, where are you, and what is your role? Feel that resting in your right hand.
• Once you have done this, bring your attention to your left hand and examine how you got into this situation. Maybe you were born into it or settled for something else, or it no longer suits you. What are you willing to do to change it? 
• Shift your attention to your right hand, where you feel seen, accepted, welcomed, and joyful. Notice the feelings that come with that and remember them. Allow those feelings to guide you when you are in their presence as a place of belonging, and seek more of that. 

 
The results can be a small change, like deciding to stop taking calls from a particular person. Other times the difference may be more significant. Sometimes it can mean leaving your biological family for your preferred family of friends. Other times, you might confirm it’s time for a new job or career. All of these are valid answers worthy of your consideration.
 
You must find your worth and then settle for nothing less than respect from yourself and others.
 
I am happy to share more about my experience and invite you to try some of my techniques.

Mary