Happy Monday, everyone! I hope 2024 has started off strong. As a reminder, the Happy Monday Book Club is up and running; this month, we’re reading Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How it Can Help You Keep and Find Love. I’m a few chapters in, and while I’m not personally interested in romance currently, it is definitely helping me with conversations with clients who are struggling in their relationships. Attachment is a foundational developmental part of who we are as human beings. I’m looking forward to writing and discussing this topic - and book - on the last Monday of the month.
In other news, I’ve got less than two months before my trip to Disneyland with my friend Connie. I’ve been working on walking to condition my body to handle the theme park terrain. I’m grateful that I can walk through the art museum, the Newport Aquarium, or the zoo on a nicer day to prepare for this trip.
Finally, I have condensed my streaming services down to just a couple. I’m reading more, including the book club book and Tim Alberta’s The Kingdom, The Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicalism in an Age of Extremism. It’s intriguing and vital for anyone who wants to better understand the sociology of the Christian right.
Today, I talked with my friend Grace Rusnica on the Happy Monday podcast. In this insightful conversation, Grace, a dedicated student of musical theater and aspiring wellness coach, shares her journey toward integrating wellness into the high-pressure world of performing arts. We explore Grace's motivations, challenges, and insights, offering a glimpse into the world of a young artist striving for balance and authenticity.
This recap was written by AI after AI had transcribed the podcast. Isn’t technology amazing?
Grace's passion for wellness, particularly nutrition, began as a personal mission during her challenging college years. Realizing the importance of health in her life, she started the Instagram account @FullofGraceWellness, where she shares her learnings and experiences. Grace aims to become a certified wellness coach and hopes to support the performing arts community, especially addressing the stigma around eating disorders.
Grace emphasizes the impact of her online presence in creating a supportive community. She recounts touching feedback from followers, highlighting the significance of her work. Social media, for Grace, is a tool for connection and empowerment.
Kirk, sharing his approach to maintaining connections, discusses his practice of reaching out to people with positive messages. He believes in the profound impact of these unexpected gestures of kindness and support.
Grace talks about the challenge of balancing her aspirations in musical theater and wellness. She sees value in pursuing both paths, recognizing the potential to make a difference in her field.
The conversation shifts to the topic of New Year's resolutions. Grace advocates setting reasonable and sustainable goals and moving away from the extremes of hustle and diet culture. She suggests focusing on adding value to one's life rather than restrictions.
Kirk tells Grace about the concept of aligning actions with personal values, a theme he explores in his upcoming self-help book. He stresses the importance of authentic self-awareness in personal growth and change.
Grace highlights the significance of a positive mindset and a supportive community in achieving personal goals. She acknowledges the challenges in reframing negative thoughts and stresses the importance of surrounding oneself with encouraging individuals.
Grace shares her experiences in musical theater, discussing the pressures of performing and the importance of maintaining confidence and a healthy mindset, even in the face of mistakes and self-doubt.
In closing, Grace and Kirk discuss the importance of authenticity in both the arts and social media. Grace reflects on her learning that genuine content resonates more with her audience. Kirk reinforces this idea, emphasizing the power of authenticity in making connections and finding one's community.
This conversation, available wherever you get your podcasts, offers valuable insights into a young artist's journey balancing wellness and a demanding career. Her experiences and perspectives shed light on the importance of authenticity, community, and self-care in pursuing personal and professional fulfillment. I hope you’ll check it out!
NEXT WEEK: We’ll reveal February’s Book of the Month and discuss the echoes of hope that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s message still brings today.
This content is for educational and entertainment purposes and is not the same as therapy. If you need to talk to someone, go to PsychologyToday.com or one of the many online therapy platforms available and start treatment with a professional today!
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Don’t forget to listen to “Happy Monday” every week wherever you get your podcasts! Go to happymondaypodcast.net more and follow us on Instagram @happymonday.podcast.
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