Let’s Explore: Dangling

As we traverse through life—in the roles of a mother, teacher, boyfriend, or simply a “liver,” as Orry would put it—we often delay embracing our own idiosyncratic roots.

What does this mean? As we move through different stages and experiences, we become deeply influenced by the outcomes of our actions—how a project ends, how someone praises us (or doesn’t), or even how silence feels. We absorb these moments, sometimes too intensely, and in doing so, we may judge ourselves—or others—too harshly.

Being With Ourselves Before Being With Others

To truly connect with another person—regardless of the role or relationship—it’s important to understand how we are when we’re by ourselves.

That might look like:

Noticing why silence makes us uncomfortable
Realizing that pre-planning calms us, even if it overwhelms others
Accepting that, despite our differences, we need each other—because we are social beings at heart

Self-awareness isn't a luxury. It’s a foundation.

This Week, Let’s Explore: Dangling

This week's theme invites a creative, symbolic way to process what’s weighing on your mind.

Try this:
Take a piece of paper and write down something that’s bothering you. Tie it to a string. Hang it somewhere visible. Just let it dangle.

Now ask yourself:

What feelings come up as you watch this “matter” just hang there?
What’s different now that it’s physically outside of you, dangling away from your mind?
If you could dangle multiple matters, what questions would you attach to each one?
What would each dangling thread ask you to let go of?
Lastly, how might you choose to let your free time dangle—slowly, mindfully—rather than rushing to fill it?

The act of dangling can become a quiet, personal ritual of letting go and stepping back. It creates a pause—a space between holding and releasing.

You Are Not “Too Much”

These weekly reflections are meant to help you get closer to your own roots—your deeper motivations, values, and the parts of you that may have been labeled as "too much." But often, those very parts are what the world needs the most right now.

Need Support?

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or emotional well-being, please consider exploring our Support and Engage verticals. We offer affordable, inclusive options for care and community.

You are never alone in this.

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