Emma opens up about her challenging childhood, growing up in a single-parent family and experiencing abuse without even realizing it. It’s a heartbreaking reminder that abuse can hide in plain sight, even when we’re young and vulnerable.
In her mid-twenties, Emma found herself following society’s expectations, seemingly on the path to success. But deep down, she knew she wasn’t truly happy. So, instead of buying a house and settling for a life that didn’t fulfill her, she took a leap of faith. She sold all her possessions and ventured off to the Galapagos Islands, not knowing if she’d ever return to her home country.
Emma’s journey didn’t stop there. She eventually found herself in Colombia, where she formed a company with someone she met. But it wasn’t just physical freedom that Emma sought; she also realized that her past was influencing her present relationships. This self-awareness was a turning point, as she began to uncover the unresolved issues and patterns that had led her into abusive relationships.
We discuss the misconception that education or intelligence can shield us from falling into abusive relationships. It’s a sobering reminder that our internal struggles and unresolved traumas can manifest in unexpected ways. We must address these issues head-on to break the cycle and find healthier, more fulfilling connections.
Emma’s journey also highlights the importance of extreme ownership and personal responsibility. She cocooned herself for months, focusing on processing her past and making connections to her present. It was during this time that she realized nobody actually cared about her, which initially devastated her. However, she turned that realization into empowerment, understanding that she alone had the power to change her situation.
