Alison Dunbar Counselling and Therapy Services

Another year another audit passed with flying colours! No non-conformities 🙌 The work that goes into Soul Traders acing audits is huge! It’s been a hard but rewarding journey which is still unravelling itself - new adventures on the horizon ……

Just stumbled across this in my notes from 2023. Not an original but I think i saw it on FB somewhere. Great lesson to be learned with this little story 💕 May you all find a place where you feel valued 🙏

A father said to his daughter “You have graduated with honors, here is a car I bought many years ago. It is pretty old now. But before I give it to you, take it to the used car lot downtown and tell them I want to sell it and see how much they offer you for it.”
The daughter went to the used car lot, returned to her father and said, “They offered me $1,000 because the said it looks pretty worn out.”
The father said, now “Take it to the pawn shop.” The daughter went to the pawn shop, returned to her father and said,”The pawn shop offered only $100 because it is an old car.”
The father asked his daughter to go to a car club now and show them the car. The daughter then took the car to the club, returned and told her father,” Some people in the club offered $100,000 for it because “it's an iconic car and sought by many collectors.”
Now the father said this to his daughter, “The right place values you the right way,” If you are not valued, do not be angry, it means you are in the wrong place. Those who know your value are those who appreciate you......Never stay in a place where no one sees your value.

Such an important area for more research - this impacts everyone!!

This speech is everything. It’s the perfect thing to send to your school administrator if you are worried about school tech. Thank you to @arc_forum and Sophie Winkleman for laying out such a compelling case for prioritizing analog learning over digital learning. Parents can find more resources related to edtech at @techsafelearning.

After a 30-year break, I am thrilled to share that I’ve returned to horse riding! 🐴✨ It feels surreal to own and ride a horse again, something I never thought I’d experience again.

Coming from Scotland the fear of snakes and spiders is real!!

This journey has reminded me of the importance of listening to your gut / intuition and following your passions, no matter how much time has passed. To anyone else thinking about rekindling a long-lost hobby or passion—don’t hesitate! You might just surprise yourself. Taking the first step is the hardest, but once you start, and the passion is ignited, it's an awesome ride!

Thank you to all the knowledgeable friends (old and new) who have guided me, believed in me and helped me on the way. My hubby and kids have been amazing and of course Uncle Dave who flew over for a holiday in November last year and embraced 'my crazy excitement' and helped me get settled in with Charlie Boy ❤️🐎.

Here’s to new adventures and cherished moments with Charlie! 🐎❤️

🌟 Embrace Your True Self and Stand in Your Own Light 🌟

Are you tired of hiding in the shadows, feeling unsure of your worth, or afraid of judgment? 🌑 It's time to break free and stand in your light. Embracing your true self is a powerful step toward personal growth, self-acceptance, and a life filled with fulfillment. ✨

Here's how to stop hiding and let your light shine:

1️⃣ Acknowledge Your Worth
Take a moment to reflect on your unique strengths, talents, and qualities. ✍️ Recognize what makes you truly special, and challenge that inner voice that tells you to stay hidden. You are enough.

2️⃣ Identify Fear Factors
What holds you back? Is it fear of failure, rejection, or criticism? Understanding your fears is the first step to overcoming them. 🌱 Visualize success and picture the joy of embracing who you truly are.

3️⃣ Start Small
Take small steps by expressing yourself in low-risk situations—whether it’s sharing your thoughts in a conversation or posting something creative. 🖼️ Celebrate those moments and gradually grow in confidence!

4️⃣ Surround Yourself with Supportive People
Build a network of positive, encouraging people who lift you up. 💬 Their support will empower you to be authentic, knowing you’re safe to shine.

5️⃣ Embrace Vulnerability
Allow yourself to be seen and understood. 🌟 Vulnerability is not a weakness—it’s a strength that fosters deep, meaningful connections. Your story can inspire others to step into their light too.

6️⃣ Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness
Prioritize your mental and emotional health. 🧘‍♀️ Take time for mindfulness, journaling, or simply relaxing—nurture yourself so you can stand strong in your light.

Remember, just like the sunlight breaking through the shadows in this image 🌅, your true self can shine brightly. It’s time to stop hiding and embrace the power you already hold within.

What steps can you take today to let your light shine? Share your journey below, and let’s inspire each other! 💫

🌟 Step into Your Light 🌟

Feeling stuck in the shadows? It’s time to embrace your true self and shine brightly! ✨

Here’s how:

1️⃣ Acknowledge Your Worth: Recognize your unique strengths and challenge negative thoughts. You are enough.
2️⃣ Face Your Fears: Identify what’s holding you back and visualize success.
3️⃣ Start Small: Take small steps to express yourself, and celebrate each victory!
4️⃣ Surround Yourself with Positivity: Build a network that uplifts you.
5️⃣ Embrace Vulnerability: Your true self is your strength.
6️⃣ Practice Self-Care: Nurture your mental and emotional health to stay grounded.

Just like the sun breaking through the shadows 🌅, your light is ready to shine!

What’s one step you’ll take today to let your light shine? Drop a comment below! 💫

💭 Reflecting on Challenges and Triggers 💭

Let’s get real for a moment: What if we took a deep look at the things that challenge us, the triggers that seem to set us off, and saw them as mirrors? 🪞

What would these mirrors be saying back to you? Could it be showing something about your own beliefs, patterns, or hidden fears? 🌱

Reflection can be a powerful tool for growth and transformation. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary for healing and moving forward. 🌟

👉 I’d love to hear from you! What do your triggers or challenges reveal about you? Let’s talk about it in the comments below and support each other through this journey of self-discovery. 💬

🌟 Throwing it back to an amazing moment of empowerment and support! 🌟

I’ll never forget the incredible experience of sponsoring the BB team in Australia. 🙌 Watching these young, fierce athletes chase their dreams with dedication and passion reminded me of the power of community and support.

When I first decided to get involved, it wasn’t just about the exposure for Alison Dunbar Counselling and Therapy Services (although I’m always grateful for the chance to raise awareness). It was about showing up for these young women, being part of their journey, and cheering them on as they shattered barriers and proved what’s possible when we believe in ourselves. 💖✨

It was a powerful reminder that every step we take to uplift others, we also elevate ourselves. 🙏

👉 I want to hear from you! Have you ever been part of a team or cause that felt bigger than just your contribution? Drop a comment and let’s share those stories of empowerment and inspiration! 🌱

🌟 Why Spending Quality Time with Your Family Matters 🌟

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s so easy to get lost in the rush of daily life, but sometimes, the most meaningful moments are found in the simplest ones. 🌿✨

Family – whether by blood or by choice – is the heart of our emotional well-being. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦💖 Spending time with loved ones, those who make us feel safe, understood, and loved, is where true connection blooms. These moments of togetherness create laughter, trust, and resilience, all helping us grow stronger as individuals and as a unit. 🌱💪

Here’s the truth: Time is precious – but the power of truly being present is priceless. Whether you're gathered with your biological family or the beautiful family you've chosen along the way, the time you spend together is what creates lasting memories and solid bonds. 👏

Are you making the most of the time you have with your loved ones? How do you prioritize and nurture those connections? 💭

Let’s talk about the importance of creating meaningful relationships, whether it’s with blood relatives or the family you’ve found along your journey. I’d love to hear your thoughts! 🌸

💬 Q & A Time! 💬

Is it the ‘act’ that occurred, or the belief it created, that continues to hurt you every day? 🤔

Sometimes, the events in our lives don’t hurt us as much as the stories we tell ourselves about them. The beliefs we hold onto can become even heavier than the event itself. 🧠💔

👉 Have you ever thought about how the beliefs formed from past experiences are affecting you today? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Let’s dive into this conversation and break free from what no longer serves us. 💬✨