Shame No More: Bizzy's Journey to Self-Acceptance
Episode Overview
Shame is feeling inherently bad; guilt is about doing something bad. Self-acceptance can transform feelings of shame into peace. Time allows for personal growth and overcoming shame. Community support is crucial in recovery journeys. Practical steps include identifying shame, gratitude journaling, and prayer.
Time gives us the opportunity to change; it's such a huge gift we often overlook.
Elizabeth Chance, affectionately known as Bizzy, opens up about the burden of shame in episode 565 of 'Busy Living Sober'. Celebrating 19 years of sobriety, Bizzy shares her journey from feeling like she was wearing a scarlet letter to embracing her true self with gratitude and community. She candidly discusses the difference between guilt and shame, noting how guilt is about doing something bad, while shame is about feeling inherently bad.
Bizzy's reflections are heartfelt and relatable, touching on the societal pressures of appearance and the judgment we often feel from others. Through humorous anecdotes, like her TJ Maxx senior discount experience, Bizzy illustrates the importance of self-acceptance and the power of owning one's wrinkles and life experiences. She highlights how time has been a gift, allowing her to transform shame into peace by taking a real inventory of who she is.
Her journey involves understanding that her addiction does not define her, much like her brown eyes or other traits. Bizzy also offers practical advice for tackling shame, such as identifying it, reaching out for help, practising gratitude, journaling, and prayer. She emphasises that nobody is alone in their struggles and encourages listeners to find someone they trust to share their truth with.
Elizabeth's story is a reminder that life is messy but beautiful, and you don't have to face it alone. So if you're grappling with shame or seeking inspiration for your own recovery journey, this episode might just be the uplifting conversation you need.