Relationship with Self: What Is It and Why Does It Matter?

How often do you stop to think about the relationship you have with yourself? Most of us spend a lot of time thinking about our relationships with family, friends, colleagues and partners, but the relationship we have with ourselves is just as important. It influences how we respond to challenges, how we speak to ourselves, how we recognise our needs and how we experience the world around us. For many neurodivergent adults, that relationship has been shaped by years of feeling different, trying to fit in, masking, misunderstanding or being misunderstood. Over time, those experiences can affect confidence, self-esteem and the way we see ourselves. This month we'll explore what it means to build a healthier relationship with yourself through a neurodivergent lens. Together we'll reflect on self-understanding, self-trust and self-acceptance, sharing ideas that can help us move away from self-criticism and towards greater compassion.

We'll explore

✨ Common experiences: self-criticism, perfectionism, masking, comparison, imposter syndrome, people pleasing, shame, feeling "not enough", difficulty recognising strengths, and learning to trust yourself.

🛠️ What can help: Understanding your neurodivergent brain, recognising your strengths, noticing your inner dialogue, setting realistic expectations, celebrating progress, practising self-compassion and learning to trust your own needs, values and decisions.

Together we'll ask

💭 What has shaped the relationship you have with yourself?💭 What messages about yourself are you ready to question or let go of?💭 What would a kinder, more trusting relationship with yourself look like?Whether you're diagnosed, self-identified, or simply curious about neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, dyslexia and more), ND BrainSpace is for you.

All our groups are currently free to attend. Pay-what-you-can contributions are gratefully received here:
https://buy.stripe.com/aFaeVe15a6Rm1ot9RKcwg00

This helps cover room hire, refreshments and other essentials — and helps us keep ND BrainSpace going for as long as possible. Thank you :)

Please note: ND BrainSpace is a peer-support and community group. The conversations and information shared come from lived experience. They should not be taken as medical, therapeutic, or professional advice. If you need medical or professional support, we encourage you to seek guidance from qualified services.