I’m Enough, You’re Enough…And That’s A Lot!

Written by Laura Enzor

In the swirl of life’s chaos, we often lose sight of a profound truth—that we are, in fact, enough. This is a short story of self-discovery and transformation, a journey from masking insecurities to embracing authenticity, and realizing that ‘I’m enough and you’re enough… and that’s extraordinary.

Embracing the belief that ‘I’m “enough,’ has been a journey—a journey not without its trials and tribulations. A journey that often begins with the false persona we adopt to fit in, as I did by vowing to be the ‘good girl’, curbing my instinctive fire, and avoiding conflicts. My parents did their best to cope after losing their soulmates. Their union was the merging of two fractured hearts, still mending, still seeking completion. Imagine the whirlwind of emotions as they tried to blend a family of thirteen children?

As a young girl, I found my solace in self-sufficiency, opting for needless independence rather than adding to the chaos. Growing and evolving from an unstable foundation proved difficult, but I made a vow not to let my struggle be evident. Like my parents, I was a survivor—only, I aspired to thrive rather than merely survive.

My inherent shyness turned out to be a blessing in disguise—it made me very observant. I absorbed the room’s energy—both positive and negative—like a sponge. But over time, the weight of everyone else’s energy became burdensome, hindering my connection with my own heart, hope, and happiness. Into my adulthood the cycle of overwork often led to personal meltdowns, during which I sought solace in creativity, to find my strength, to revive myself. Finally, acknowledging that I needed to rest and take a break sometimes! However, the cycle would invariably repeat until I finally recognized it and transformed it.

The carefree nature of my early childhood was a true representation of me. Every year, I wished upon my birthday candles for my discovery as a movie star. I wrote skits, poems and was a bright light. However, the disempowering messages I internalized during my formative years soon began to envelop me, suppressing my true self under the façade of feigned contentment. Yet, the saying ‘fake it until you make it’ served its purpose to some extent. I was just missing an essential piece of the puzzle…

Externally, I seemed to lead a charmed life that I could have won an Oscar for! My choices, sacrifices, and perseverance helped me achieve a lot. Although I had periods of tranquility within my ‘mom-life’ years, it was my husband’s support that allowed me to retreat into a safe space, rediscover my voice, and reclaim my identity. Yet, as I was drawn back into my career, I fell prey again to my own unrealistic standards and became the fitness instructor on fire!

Do you recognize this cycle in YOUR life?

However, as midlife approached, I began to lose steam. I lost sight of my worth as it had become intertwined with my responsibilities towards my family, others, and my job. Thus began my midlife introspection and soul-searching, in my quest for peace and self-love.

Deciding to invest in myself and my happiness, instead of perpetually seeking approval, was a leap of faith. Unlearning deep-seated habits and beliefs was daunting, but I gradually started honoring my true self—a creative spirit, a lover of nature, animals, sunshine, and the surf.

Shedding my mask and embracing my authenticity was a slow process. Still, I dread to think where I might be if had I not made that leap. Now, the life I’ve dreamt of—a life filled with joy, freedom, and fulfillment—is closer than ever, and that in-itself is ‘enough.’

No longer chained by my past or hiding behind masks, I’m now free to follow my heart which in turn fuels my soul. ‘I’m enough. You’re enough.’ And indeed, that is a lot.

Any of you have a similar story?

 I know for me the” good girl” mask was exchanged for a “good wife” mask, a “good friend” mask, and a “good employee” mask throughout my adult years. Good girls are people pleasers, well liked, great employees, supportive wives and loyal friends! What’s not to like?  

However, a lifetime of living this way can take a toll emotionally, spiritually and physically. Maybe a lifetime of pleasing others is taking a toll on you? When we feel enough inside, that builds self-trust and helps build up your self-love stores and fuels your soul.

Reach out if this post resonates with you. Feeling enough is your birthright!

I help women, who are empty nesters, embrace their golden years, rediscover their authentic selves, rekindle thier passions, & reestablish meaningful connections in their lives.

Your transformation coach,

Laura