On fawning.
We fawn when we want to belong & think we can't as we are.
RACHEL CLIFTON (real power is embodied)⚡️@rachelclif
Fawning isn't just a trauma response.
It's a trauma response that's rooted in-- and relies on-- shame.
That's why it's so persistent. And pervasive.
We fawn for the same reason that we victimise ourselves: we believe it's who & what we are.
4:19 PM · Aug 16, 2022
RACHEL CLIFTON (real power is embodied)⚡️@rachelclif
From personal experience:
There is comfort (& safety) in fawning (& victimhood) too.
4:19 PM · Aug 16, 2022
RACHEL CLIFTON (real power is embodied)⚡️@rachelclif
When you don't have to face [up to] your own personal responsibility, you’re also protected from pain-- to at least some degree.
At the expense of life.
At the expense of joy.
At the expense of aliveness.
And, all these things can be deeply confronting.
4:19 PM · Aug 16, 2022
RACHEL CLIFTON (real power is embodied)⚡️@rachelclif
We face our demons by building capacity for them. By learning to hold ourselves. By learning to love ourselves with them.
Then, and only then, can we let them go.
We will miss them. They have served a helpful purpose.
How & where does shame serve you?
4:19 PM · Aug 16, 2022
3 Likes
RACHEL CLIFTON (real power is embodied)⚡️@rachelclif
How & where has shame protected you?
4:19 PM · Aug 16, 2022
RACHEL CLIFTON (real power is embodied)⚡️@rachelclif
What will you lose by letting go of shame? What are you scared to lose, even?
4:19 PM · Aug 16, 2022
RACHEL CLIFTON (real power is embodied)⚡️@rachelclif
It's okay to be scared. I love you. Jung loves you too. Xox
4:19 PM · Aug 16, 2022