Growing up, I never felt like I fit in—especially in relationships. As a single woman in my late 30s, I realized I was a people pleaser, carrying others’ burdens at the cost of my confidence and self-worth. A relationship with a narcissist abroad shattered my goals and drained me mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I lived in fear, walking on eggshells, and questioning if it was the wrong place, wrong people, or just bad timing. When I realized no one was coming to save me, I turned inward. I leaned on God, tapped into my intuition, and began the journey of healing. I’ve been doing shadow work, shedding old layers, and finding peace. Healing is slow, but I now stand in a new season of self-awareness and rebirth—one where I choose myself, live from my center, and embrace my power.
Estella Achinko, Bahrain, IG @seasonedwriter
