So, you want to be unashamed?
Great! But first, let’s be clear on exactly what being unashamed really means. It’s simple: using your experiences (the good and, especially, the bad) to improve yourself and those around you. The point of it all is to share your story, empathize with those who have suffered like you have, and give them hope that they can overcome their challenges because you did. This is exactly how U Can’t B Erased came into being. And if I could do it, you can, too.
Method #1: Be Selective
Let’s start off easy. Maybe you’re not really sure if you want to share your experiences with the world. Or maybe you don’t know how yet. That’s all right. The first step to being unashamed is using your experiences to make small changes in your daily life. You could smile more at people you encounter, be kinder to cashiers at grocery stores, or be more empathetic to people who confide their struggles with you. The last one is the goal with this method of being unashamed. You may want to couple it with sharing your story and experiences with some of the people closest to you, so they know what you went through, and if they’re going through something similar, they know they can rely on you for empathy, understanding, and support.
This is not your life work but simply something you incorporate into your life to positively impact those around you.
You could also share my videos, blog posts, and podcast episodes to help bring awareness to mental illness and break the stigma!
Method #2: Be an Advocate
But maybe you’re feeling more adventurous. Maybe you don’t mind people knowing about your story and you want to make this mission more of an integral part of your life. In addition to everything described in the first method, here are some more ways you can step up your unashamed game.
You could get involved in an organization by volunteering or simply being an advocate for them. You can offer to share your story at rallies or walks (you could also make a video of your story like I did). Keep in mind, you don’t have to make this your entire life mission, but it is an extremely important part of your daily interaction. Your friends all know about your experiences and oftentimes come to you for help with similar problems. You can share about mental health on social media and in person to break the stigma and promote awareness. You’re overall unashamed about what you’ve experienced and don’t mind people knowing your story because you know it can positively impact those who hear it.
Method #3: Be a Warrior
But maybe you’re feeling more adventurous. Maybe you don’t mind people knowing about your story, and you want to make this mission more of an integral part of your future. In addition to everything described in the first method, here are some more ways you can step up your unashamed game.
You could get involved in an organization by volunteering or simply being an advocate by promoting it. You can offer to share your story at rallies or walks (you could also make a video of your story like I did). Keep in mind, this isn’t about making this your entire life mission, but it is an extremely important part of your daily interactions. Your friends all know about your experiences and often times come to you for help with similar problems. You can share about mental health on social media and in person to break the stigma and promote awareness. You’re overall unashamed about what you’ve experienced and don’t mind people knowing your story because you know it can positively impact those who hear it.
