The Snooze Button Chronicles: My Weekend Struggle to Become a Morning Person

Okay, I’ll admit it—becoming a morning person has been my weekend goal for… well, let’s just say it’s been a while. And before you judge me, we all have something we’re constantly working on, right? For me, it’s waking up early, enjoying a hot cup of chocolate (yes, hot chocolate, not coffee—don’t judge me), and getting a head start on my day like one of those super organized people you see in Instagram stories.

In my mind, it goes something like this: the alarm goes off, I gracefully hop out of bed with perfectly messy hair (the stylish kind, not the “what happened to you” kind), the house is peacefully quiet, and I sip my hot chocolate while making my to-do list for the day. Sounds amazing, right? Well, that’s not quite how things go in real life.

Here’s the reality: the alarm goes off, and instead of hopping out of bed, I hit the snooze button at least three times. By the time I finally roll out of bed, I look like I’ve been through a windstorm. Hair? A complete disaster. But it’s fine—I’ll fix it later, right? As I attempt to tiptoe to the kitchen to make my beloved hot chocolate, I hear it… the pitter-patter of little feet. And there it is—my kids, awake at the crack of dawn, as if they have some internal radar that tells them, “Mom’s up, let’s go!”

So, there goes my peaceful morning. Suddenly, my to-do list consists of getting breakfast ready, answering a million questions (because kids are walking question machines), and negotiating peace treaties over who gets the blue bowl. Hot chocolate? Yeah, I sip it between requests for juice and cleaning up cereal spills. Peaceful morning? Not exactly.

But every weekend, without fail, I set the same goal: this will be the weekend I become a morning person. I keep telling myself that one day, I’ll wake up early, have my hot chocolate in peace, and maybe even get through my to-do list before the kids wake up. Maybe next weekend will be the one. Or the next one after that.

Until then, I’ll keep hitting snooze, chasing the elusive dream of being a morning person, and laughing at the chaos that comes with trying.

Be well until next time.

Living With Intention: Embracing More of What Truly Matters

What could you do more of?

As I sit with this question, I’m reminded of the importance of making space for the things that nourish my spirit and contribute to my growth. In a world that demands so much from us, we often get caught up in the ‘doing’ rather than truly being. But as I reflect on what I could do more of, one answer becomes abundantly clear: I could do more of living intentionally.

Too often, we find ourselves running on autopilot, focusing on checking off our to-do lists and chasing after the next goal. But what if we paused and took a step back? What if we created more time to be present, to sit in stillness, and to reflect on the moments that make life meaningful?

“Living intentionally isn’t about adding more to your plate; it’s about choosing, with purpose, what you allow on your plate to begin with.”

~ Coach Shae Pratcher ~

For me, this means:

More Connection:
I could spend more time connecting with the people who matter most. In the busyness of life, it’s easy to get swept away, but I know that creating space for real conversations with my husband, listening more attentively to my children, or reaching out to a friend can be soul-restoring. I encourage all of us to carve out moments to connect with those who fill our cup and remind us of who we are beyond our roles and responsibilities.

More Grace:
I could also extend more grace—to myself and to others. Sometimes, we’re our own harshest critics, and that inner voice can be relentless. But true growth and healing happen when we allow ourselves to make mistakes, learn, and try again. In the same way, we can practice patience and understanding toward others, acknowledging that everyone is on their own journey.

More Self-Care:
There’s power in caring for ourselves, not just physically but emotionally and spiritually. I’ve found that when I’m intentional about nurturing my soul—whether it’s through journaling, prayer, or using products that align with my self-care routines—I’m better equipped to serve those around me. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s necessary. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

So, when I ask myself, “What could I do more of?” the answer is clear: more intentional living, more connection, more grace, and more care. Not just for the sake of doing, but for the sake of thriving.

How about you? What could you do more of?

Don’t Stop. Don’t Settle. Keep Stepping.

GET OUT MY SPACE!

The Power of Boundaries to Protect Your Peace

We’ve all been there—the moment when someone oversteps, drains your energy, or makes you feel like you’re suffocating. It’s tempting to stay silent, to let things slide, but deep down, you know something has to change. You need to protect your peace. You need boundaries.

When I say GET OUT MY SPACE, I’m not talking about shutting people out or limiting your love for others. It’s about creating healthy boundaries that allow you to protect your own well-being while maintaining respect and love for those around you. Boundaries aren’t walls to keep people away—they’re guidelines that protect your peace and honor your needs.

Boundaries Aren’t About Limiting Love—They’re About Respecting Yourself

Setting boundaries is an act of self-respect. It’s about recognizing your own value and understanding that you deserve to be treated with care and consideration. Too often, we feel guilty for setting boundaries because we think it makes us selfish or unkind. But the truth is, boundaries are an essential part of any healthy relationship—whether it’s with family, friends, or even colleagues.

When you create boundaries, you’re not saying, “I don’t love you” or “I don’t care about you.” You’re simply saying, “I love myself enough to protect my peace, and I love you enough to respect our relationship by ensuring it remains healthy.” Boundaries allow us to show up as our best selves for others, without losing ourselves in the process.

Why Boundaries Matter

Without boundaries, we risk burnout, resentment, and emotional exhaustion. We give so much of ourselves that there’s nothing left for us. And when we’re running on empty, it affects every aspect of our lives—our relationships, our work, our mental and emotional health.

Boundaries help us to:

  • Protect Our Peace On Purpose
    Peace is something we have to actively protect. When we allow others to overstep, interrupt, or drain our energy without addressing it, we sacrifice our peace. Boundaries give us the space we need to recharge, reflect, and maintain a sense of calm, even in chaotic situations.
  • Maintain Our Energy
    Not every person or situation deserves your full energy. By setting boundaries, you create a filter that helps you determine where your energy is best spent. This doesn’t mean cutting people off—it means being mindful of who and what gets access to your time and emotional resources.
  • Honor Our Needs
    Your needs matter. Whether it’s the need for quiet time, emotional space, or simply the ability to say “no,” boundaries are a way of honoring your own needs without feeling guilty. When you honor your needs, you’re better equipped to show up for others with love and presence.
  • Create Healthier Relationships
    Boundaries are essential for healthy relationships. Without them, resentment builds, communication breaks down, and trust is eroded. When you set clear boundaries, you’re letting others know how you expect to be treated, which creates mutual respect and understanding.

Boundaries Aren’t About Being Harsh—They’re About Being Clear

One of the biggest misconceptions about boundaries is that they’re harsh or mean. But boundaries aren’t about being rude or cutting people off—they’re about being clear. They’re about communicating your needs and expectations in a way that others can understand and respect.

For example, a boundary might look like:

  • “I need some alone time after work to recharge. I’ll be available to talk later in the evening.”
  • “I’m not comfortable discussing that topic right now. Let’s focus on something else.”
  • “I can’t take on any more responsibilities at the moment, but I’ll let you know if my schedule opens up.”

These statements aren’t about pushing people away—they’re about ensuring that you’re taking care of yourself first so that you can engage with others in a healthier, more balanced way.

Respecting Yourself Is the First Step to Being Respected by Others

Here’s the hard truth: If you don’t respect your own boundaries, no one else will. It’s up to you to set the tone for how others treat you. By respecting your own space—both physical and emotional—you teach others to do the same.

This doesn’t mean you need to be rigid or unyielding, but it does mean you need to stand firm in what you know is best for you. People who truly love and respect you will understand your need for boundaries and will appreciate the clarity it brings to your relationship.

Boundaries Create Space for More Love, Not Less

One of the most beautiful things about boundaries is that they create space for more love, not less. When you protect your peace and respect your own needs, you’re able to show up fully for the people you care about.

“You’re not pouring from an empty cup—you’re giving from a place of abundance.”

~ Coach Shae Pratcher ~

By creating boundaries, you remove the resentment and exhaustion that often come from overextending yourself. Instead, you’re able to love others more freely because you’re coming from a place of wholeness.

Conclusion: Your Space, Your Peace

At the end of the day, GET OUT MY SPACE isn’t about shutting people out—it’s about creating the necessary boundaries that allow you to live with peace and purpose. It’s about respecting yourself enough to say, “This is what I need, and I’m worthy of having my needs met.”

When you protect your peace, you’re able to show up as your best self—for your family, your friends, and most importantly, for you. Boundaries aren’t the end of love—they’re the beginning of a more respectful, healthy, and balanced way of living.

So, take up space. Protect your peace. And let others know that your boundaries are there to create more love, not less.

Don’t Stop. Don’t Settle. Keep Stepping.

The Power of Knowing Your “Why”: My Journey to #Heal4Real

In life, understanding your “Why” is crucial. It serves as the compass that helps you navigate through the challenges, uncertainty, and even the triumphs. Without it, we’re often left wandering through life without direction, unsure of where we’re going or why we’re even moving in the first place. But when you know your “Why,” every step has purpose, every decision has weight, and every obstacle becomes a stepping stone rather than a roadblock.

For me, my “Why” became clear when I made the decision to heal—really heal. After years of carrying unresolved pain and trauma, I realized I had a choice to make. I could continue to show up bitter for my family, weighed down by what I hadn’t yet confronted, or I could choose to heal and show up better for them. My family, my children, my husband—they deserved the best version of me, and I deserved that too.

Why I Chose to #Heal4Real

Making the decision to #Heal4Real wasn’t just a moment—it was a commitment. I was tired of simply surviving. I wanted to thrive. I wanted to be a better mother, wife, and woman, free from the baggage of past pain. I realized that if I didn’t do the work to heal, my pain would bleed into the lives of the people I love the most. That was my “Why.” I wanted to break the cycle and create a legacy of love, strength, and resilience.

Knowing my “Why” gave me the courage to face the hard truths, to sit in the uncomfortable emotions, and to choose healing over bitterness. It pushed me to not only confront my past but to share my journey through writing. That’s how Highway to Healing was born—a book I never could have imagined would turn into a multi-award-winning title, but it did, because the heart behind it was genuine.

How My “Why” Led to the Creation of My Coaching Business

After writing Highway to Healing, I knew my healing journey wasn’t just for me. My “Why” expanded into something greater than just showing up for my family—it became about showing up for others. I wanted to help others experience the same freedom, peace, and growth that I had found through healing. That’s when I launched Showering Seeds of Growth, my coaching business dedicated to helping people heal, grow, and thrive.

This business is more than a venture—it’s a mission. Every day, I strive to help people get to a place where they are open to the possibility of healing, just as I had to do. The process isn’t easy, and it’s often messy, but knowing your “Why” makes it worth it. When you’re rooted in your purpose, you realize that healing is not only possible, but it’s essential if you want to truly live and not just exist.

Helping Others Find Their “Why” and #Heal4Real

Through my book and my coaching, I’m committed to helping people uncover their “Why.” Whether it’s healing from trauma, finding clarity in relationships, or navigating life’s challenges, knowing why you’re on this journey is what will sustain you when things get hard. Healing is not a straight line; it’s a continuous process. But when you know your “Why,” you have the strength to keep going, to do the work, and to come out on the other side as a better, stronger version of yourself.

My “Why”—to show up better instead of bitter for my family—has driven every decision I’ve made since I decided to heal. It’s what gave me the courage to write Highway to Healing, to build Showering Seeds of Growth, and to continue to help others unlock the possibility of healing in their own lives. And it’s what keeps me going every day, pushing me to create more, to help more, and to heal more.

So, what’s your “Why”? If you don’t know it yet, that’s okay. Start by asking yourself what matters most to you, and what you’re willing to fight for. When you find your “Why,” you’ll find the strength to do the work and #Heal4Real.

Are you ready to #heal4real?

It’s a Heart Thing, Not a Hard Thing: Embracing the Power of Compassion and Connection

There’s a quote I live by: “It’s a heart thing, not a hard thing.” This simple phrase has transformed the way I approach life’s challenges and relationships. Often, we encounter situations that feel overwhelming or too difficult to manage, but I’ve come to realize that much of what we perceive as hard can be seen through the lens of the heart. By shifting our perspective and approaching life with empathy and compassion, we open the door to deeper understanding, growth, and connection.

Shifting Our Perspective

When we label something as “hard,” we immediately create resistance. We anticipate difficulty and brace ourselves for struggle. But when we remember that “It’s a heart thing, not a hard thing,” we begin to see those same challenges in a new light. Instead of focusing on the obstacles, we focus on the emotional and relational aspects that can lead us to growth and resolution.

Approaching life’s challenges with heart means tapping into empathy, compassion, and understanding. It’s about connecting with ourselves and others on a deeper level and realizing that most challenges aren’t as difficult as they seem when we approach them with openness and intention.

Relationships: A Matter of the Heart

Relationships are often the source of life’s greatest joys, but they can also feel like some of the hardest parts to navigate. Whether it’s with family, friends, or partners, we sometimes find ourselves thinking that certain relationships are just too hard to manage.

But relationships, at their core, are about the heart. When we approach them with love, patience, and empathy, we realize that they don’t have to be as hard as we make them out to be. By leading with heart, we unlock the true potential for connection and healing. It’s about understanding, not controlling, and about opening ourselves up to the vulnerability that brings us closer together.

Leading with Compassion

When faced with challenges—especially those involving other people’s emotions or our own—it’s easy to think that resolving these issues will be tough. But with the mindset of “It’s a heart thing, not a hard thing,” we remind ourselves to lead with compassion.

Compassion acknowledges the humanity in every situation. It allows us to be gentle with ourselves and others, to see the bigger picture, and to approach difficulties with grace. Whether we’re setting boundaries, making tough decisions, or navigating conflict, keeping our hearts open enables us to find solutions rooted in understanding rather than resistance.

It’s About Connection, Not Perfection

Life can feel hard when we’re constantly striving for perfection or control. But perfection isn’t the goal—connection is. When we shift our focus from trying to make everything perfect to simply being present and connected, we find that life’s challenges feel lighter. It’s through these moments of connection, vulnerability, and authenticity that we grow the most.

By remembering “It’s a heart thing, not a hard thing,” we open ourselves up to deeper relationships, greater personal growth, and a more fulfilling journey. We learn to let go of the need to have all the answers and trust in the power of compassion and connection.

Moving Forward with Heart

So, the next time you face something that feels too hard, take a step back and remember my quote: “It’s a heart thing, not a hard thing.” Approach the situation with empathy, lead with your heart, and allow yourself to connect with the deeper meaning behind the challenge. Life becomes much more manageable when we stop fighting against it and start flowing with it.

Remember, it’s our hearts that carry us through life’s challenges, not our ability to make everything easy or perfect. By embracing compassion and connection, we empower ourselves to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace.

Don’t Stop. Don’t Settle. Keep Stepping.

Why Monica’s The Boy Is Mine Will Always Be My Favorite Album

What’s your all-time favorite album?

Music has always been a central part of my life, shaping my experiences and giving me a way to connect with my emotions and the world around me. While I’ve fallen in love with many songs and artists over the years, if I had to choose just one album that has stood the test of time for me, it would be Monica’s The Boy Is Mine.

Monica has been more than just a singer I admire—she’s been an inspiration, a source of strength, and the driving force behind my own passion for music. It was her voice, so rich and unique, that drew me in and made me realize that music was something I didn’t just want to listen to—I wanted to live it.

A Major Influence on My Love for Music

I can still remember listening to Monica’s music as a child and feeling a deep connection to her lyrics and the raw emotion in her voice. It was more than just entertainment; her songs spoke to me. Her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability in a single note left an imprint on my heart. Monica’s music showed me that singing wasn’t just about hitting the right notes—it was about telling a story, about expressing the truth of who you are.

Her songs, like “Angel of Mine” and “You Should’ve Known Better,” held such power that they quickly became soundtracks to important moments in my life. The very first talent show I ever participated in, I performed “You Should’ve Known Better.” That performance was a defining moment for me, marking the start of my own musical journey. Monica’s influence was clear—it was her music that gave me the courage to step on stage and share my voice with the world.

Why The Boy Is Mine Stands Out

Released in the late ’90s, The Boy Is Mine became an instant classic. From the title track, a fierce collaboration with Brandy, to deep emotional ballads like “For You I Will,” every song on that album felt like a story. Monica’s ability to weave together heartache, hope, and empowerment made this album something truly special.

For me, The Boy Is Mine was more than just an album—it was a soundtrack that shaped my younger years and fueled my dream to become a singer. Her voice, her lyrics, and her unapologetic delivery made me feel empowered as a young girl, especially as I navigated my own dreams and passions. Listening to Monica sing felt like having someone in my corner, pushing me to keep going, keep dreaming, and keep believing in my own voice.

A Lifelong Connection

Even now, Monica’s music continues to inspire me. Her ability to make every song feel so personal, so real, reminds me why I fell in love with music in the first place. I’ve grown since the first time I heard The Boy Is Mine, but my connection to that album—and to Monica—has never faded. It’s a reminder of where I started and why I continue to hold on to music as a source of inspiration and empowerment.

The way Monica’s voice fills a room, the way her lyrics tell a story—she’s been a force for me throughout my life. She showed me that music could be a powerful tool for expressing the deepest parts of ourselves.

So, if you ask me what my all-time favorite album is, I’ll always say Monica’s The Boy Is Mine—because it’s not just an album to me. It’s a symbol of the beginning of my journey, both as a lover of music and as someone who dared to dream big.

Stay well until next time.

Exploring New Horizons: My Journey Toward Financial Literacy and Wealth-Building

Which topics would you like to be more informed about?

As someone who has spent a lot of time focusing on personal healing, boundaries, and self-care, I’ve come to realize that my journey doesn’t end there. Lately, I’ve been feeling the pull to explore topics that stretch me beyond my areas of expertise—topics that can have a profound impact on my life and the lives of those around me. One area that’s been on my mind is personal finance and wealth-building.

To be completely transparent, the world of investing, budgeting, and financial literacy is not something I’ve always been well-versed in. However, I’ve come to see that understanding money—how it works, how to grow it, and how to make it work for me—is just as crucial to thriving as the emotional, spiritual, and relational aspects of life.

Why Personal Finance Matters

For many, talking about money can feel uncomfortable. But I’ve realized that financial health is an important part of living a balanced, thriving life. It’s not just about having more or spending less—it’s about using the resources we have wisely, planning for the future, and creating opportunities for growth and security. In learning about personal finance, I’m not just thinking about myself but also about how to ensure that my children have a strong foundation when it comes to managing their own financial futures.

The Wealth-Building Journey

Wealth-building isn’t just for the super-rich or financial experts. It’s about making intentional choices that allow us to accumulate assets over time—whether it’s through saving, investing, or entrepreneurial endeavors. As I dive into this subject, I’m eager to explore strategies for investing, especially as someone who values long-term growth over quick wins. The idea of building wealth through smart, deliberate action excites me, especially when I think about the legacy I want to leave for my family.

What I’m Learning So Far

As I embark on this journey, I’m learning that financial literacy is an essential life skill. From budgeting basics to understanding compound interest, every step I take toward learning more is a step toward greater financial empowerment. I’m also starting to explore the world of investing, which—while intimidating at first—is something I believe everyone should take time to understand. Whether it’s real estate, stocks, or other forms of investment, building wealth isn’t just about having more; it’s about being in control of your financial destiny.

Looking Forward

The more I learn about personal finance, the more I realize how transformative this knowledge can be. It’s not just about the numbers but about the freedom and opportunities that financial literacy can unlock. My hope is that by gaining a deeper understanding of wealth-building strategies, I can also inspire others to take control of their finances and build a future that aligns with their goals and dreams.

As I continue to explore these new horizons, I’ll be sharing my insights and learnings, and I hope you’ll join me on this journey toward financial empowerment!

Selfishness vs. Selflessness: Finding the Balance Between Caring for Yourself and Others

In a world that often emphasizes individual success and self-care, the line between selfishness and selflessness can sometimes blur. It’s easy to swing too far in one direction, either putting everyone else’s needs ahead of your own or focusing so much on yourself that others are left behind. But true growth and healing come from understanding the delicate balance between the two.

What is Selfishness?

Selfishness is often seen as a negative trait, and in many cases, it can be. When someone is selfish, they place their own wants, desires, and needs above everyone else’s, often at the expense of others. This can manifest in relationships, work, or personal endeavors, where the focus is solely on gaining or benefiting without regard for how it impacts others. But it’s important to recognize that selfishness can also stem from fear—fear of losing control, fear of lack, or even fear of vulnerability.

Yet, there’s a misconception that any act of putting yourself first is selfish. In reality, setting boundaries and protecting your own well-being isn’t selfishness; it’s self-preservation. It’s when the intention behind our actions comes from a place of taking more than giving, or neglecting others, that selfishness can become harmful.

What is Selflessness?

On the flip side, selflessness is often praised as a noble trait—putting others’ needs and well-being ahead of your own. A selfless person is someone who sacrifices their time, energy, and resources to help others, often without expecting anything in return. Acts of kindness, empathy, and compassion fall under the umbrella of selflessness, and they play a crucial role in maintaining healthy relationships and communities.

But even selflessness, when taken to an extreme, can become unhealthy. Constantly prioritizing others while neglecting your own needs can lead to burnout, resentment, and even emotional exhaustion. Selflessness doesn’t mean abandoning yourself; it means finding a way to serve others while still caring for your own well-being.

The Balance: Healthy Selfishness and Purposeful Selflessness

The key to navigating selfishness and selflessness lies in balance. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and at the same time, living only for yourself leaves little room for meaningful connections with others.

  • Healthy Selfishness: It’s okay—necessary, even—to prioritize your mental, emotional, and physical health. This isn’t selfishness in the negative sense, but rather a form of self-love and self-respect. Taking time for yourself, setting boundaries, and acknowledging your limits are all acts of healthy selfishness that empower you to be more present and available for others in the long run.
  • Purposeful Selflessness: Acts of kindness and generosity are most impactful when they come from a place of intention and purpose. Purposeful selflessness is about giving when you can, in ways that align with your values, without sacrificing your well-being. It’s about knowing when to say “yes” and when to say “no” so that your giving doesn’t become draining or obligatory.

Finding Your Balance

For me, finding the balance between selfishness and selflessness has been an ongoing journey. As a coach, artist, and mother, there are so many roles I juggle that require me to show up for others. But I’ve also learned that showing up for myself is just as important. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for sustaining the energy and strength needed to serve others effectively.

To thrive, we need both healthy selfishness and purposeful selflessness. We must recognize when we need to fill our own cups and when we have the capacity to pour into someone else’s. It’s not about always choosing one over the other; it’s about knowing when each is appropriate.

Ask Yourself:

  • Am I neglecting my own needs in the name of serving others?
  • Do I feel guilty for taking time for myself? Why?
  • Where can I set healthier boundaries to find more balance between giving and receiving?

Selfishness vs. selflessness isn’t a black-and-white concept—it’s a spectrum. By paying attention to your needs and the needs of others, and by understanding your own limits, you can find a healthier, more fulfilling balance in life.

Don’t Stop. Don’t Settle. Keep Stepping.

Holding On When Letting Go Feels Easier: A Message of Hope for Suicide Prevention

“Even in the darkest moments, light and hope can break through. Keep holding on.”

There was a time in my life when I felt like I was drowning in pain. The weight of my childhood trauma and the unimaginable loss of my firstborn son, who passed away due to Trisomy 13 after I carried him full term, was too much to bear. In those dark moments, I was overwhelmed by the cards I had been dealt, and suicide felt like the only way to escape the agony I was living with every day.

I know what it’s like to stand at the edge, feeling like there’s no way forward. The pain, the loss, the brokenness—it all felt too heavy. I didn’t see a future for myself, and I didn’t think I had the strength to keep going. In that moment, I believed I had reached the end of my road. I was ready to give up, to surrender to the darkness that had consumed me.

But something held me back.

It was my faith. Even in my brokenness, a glimmer of hope remained. I believed there had to be more for me, even though I couldn’t see it at the time. And that hope—tiny as it was—kept me holding on, one day at a time. If it weren’t for my faith and hope, I wouldn’t be here to tell you this story. I wouldn’t be here to witness all the promises that were waiting for me on the other side of the storm.

Looking back now, I see how the things that were meant to break me, the moments that nearly did, have become the very reasons I’ve found beauty in brokenness. They’ve allowed me to see that there is purpose in the pain. If I had let go when it felt easier to give up, I would have missed out on the life I’m living today—a life filled with healing, joy, and a deeper understanding of why I’m here.

To anyone reading this who is feeling like the weight of life is unbearable, I want you to know that I understand. I’ve been where you are. I’ve felt the hopelessness and the darkness. But I also want you to know this: the pain you’re feeling right now does not define the rest of your life. It may feel impossible to believe, but there is hope for better days ahead.

Please, don’t give up. Don’t let the darkness win. There are people who love you, who need you, and who would miss you deeply. There are promises and possibilities in your future that you can’t yet imagine. I know it feels impossible now, but the very things that feel like they’re breaking you may end up being the things that shape you into the person you’re meant to be.

Hold on to hope, no matter how small. Reach out to someone. Talk to a friend, a family member, a counselor—anyone who can remind you that you don’t have to carry this burden alone. There is no shame in seeking help. It’s one of the bravest things you can do.

You are here for a reason. Your life has meaning and purpose beyond this moment of pain. I know because I’ve walked through it, and I’ve come out the other side. And if I had given up, I would have missed all the beauty that was waiting for me. You are stronger than you know, and you are worth fighting for.

Please don’t let go. Keep stepping forward, one small step at a time. There is more for you. There is hope. There is healing. And there are brighter days ahead.

—Coach Shae Pratcher

#SuicidePrevention

#Heal4Real

Why THRIVE Is My Favorite Word: A Guide to Healing and Growth

What’s your favorite word?

If someone were to ask me my favorite word, without hesitation, I’d say THRIVE. It’s a word that resonates deeply with me, not just because of its positive energy, but because it represents everything I strive for, both personally and as a Trauma Life Recovery Coach. To thrive isn’t just to live; it’s to rise, grow, and evolve despite life’s challenges. It’s about flourishing in the midst of adversity, which mirrors my own journey and the path I guide others through.

Trust the process, Heal from within, Rise above challenges, Inspire growth, Value your journey, and Embrace every moment—this is how I break down the meaning of THRIVE. Each letter embodies a core principle that keeps me grounded, focused, and motivated as I walk my own healing path and help others find theirs.

Thrive: A Word That Keeps Me Grounded

When I think about the word THRIVE, I’m reminded of how much healing requires patience and faith. I often reflect on how trusting the process of healing isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary. Whether it’s working through personal pain or helping a client navigate their trauma, trusting that every step forward is progress, no matter how small, is crucial. In the early stages of my journey, this wasn’t clear to me. I wanted results immediately. But through faith and resilience, I’ve come to understand that thriving begins with trust.

Healing from within has also been a personal revelation. It’s not about fixing what’s on the surface but addressing the deeper wounds. As a Trauma Life Recovery Coach, I see firsthand how the internal work—acknowledging hurt, processing emotions, and practicing self-compassion—creates the foundation for true transformation. And this is where thriving starts to take root.

Rising Above Challenges

Healing isn’t linear. There are setbacks, moments where it feels like you’re taking two steps back for every step forward. But here’s the thing—thriving means rising above those challenges. It’s about resilience, a quality I’ve cultivated through my own experiences with grief, loss, and trauma. It’s also what I encourage in the people I work with. I remind them (and myself) that challenges are opportunities for growth. They don’t define us; they refine us.

Inspiring Growth in Others

Helping others to thrive is central to my work. Whether it’s through one-on-one coaching or the programs I’ve developed, I aim to inspire growth in everyone I encounter. To thrive isn’t just a personal pursuit; it’s about lifting others up along the way. I believe that when we grow, we empower others to do the same. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about seeing someone rise from their pain and begin to embrace the possibility of a brighter future. THRIVE serves as my reminder to continue inspiring that growth, not only for myself but for others.

Valuing My Journey

Sometimes, I have to pause and remind myself to celebrate the small victories along my own journey. Thriving is not just about the end goal; it’s about valuing the process. Every milestone, every lesson learned, every challenge overcome is part of the bigger picture. This is why I make it a point to reflect and appreciate the path I’ve walked so far. When I do this, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come—and that in itself keeps me motivated to keep going, not just for myself but for those who are walking alongside me on their own healing journeys.

Embracing Every Moment

Lastly, thriving means being present. I’ve learned that healing isn’t about rushing to the finish line; it’s about embracing every moment, even the difficult ones. In my role as a coach, I encourage others to embrace where they are today and to appreciate the growth happening within them, even if it’s hard to see. When we embrace the present, we can truly thrive, because we’re no longer focused on what’s lacking, but on what’s possible.

So, what’s my favorite word? THRIVE. It reminds me daily to trust, heal, rise, inspire, value, and embrace every part of my journey.

If you’re seeking more inspiration and practical guidance on your healing journey, my multi-award-winning book Highway to Healing dives even deeper into these themes. It’s not just a story of overcoming adversity, but a roadmap to help you navigate your own path of healing and transformation. Special edition autographed copies are available exclusively through my website, and the original version can also be found on Amazon.

Let it be the tool that helps you THRIVE on your journey to healing.