An ongoing goal I’ve had over the past few years has been to feel safe within my community and to find the courage to speak up for myself when it comes to the supports in my life. For a long time, I struggled with this. I felt scared and overwhelmed by anxiety, constantly questioning whether I should say anything at all. The thought of potential conflict made me deeply uncomfortable, so I often stayed silent. But over time, and through conversations with the trusted supports around me, I learned something important: it’s not only okay to speak up, it’s essential. I realized I deserve to be supported in ways that feel right for me, and I don’t have to bottle things up like I used to. Because of my anxiety and my deep reluctance to cause conflict, I’ve found a way to advocate for myself that still honors my boundaries. I now communicate my thoughts and the changes I want to see through an advocate. This approach has helped me feel heard and respected, without the fear of direct confrontation. If I could offer advice to anyone navigating similar challenges, especially those dealing with high anxiety, I’d say this: take small steps. Be kind to yourself as you move toward your goal. Talk to your family or the people you trust. That made a huge difference for me. It helped me gain perspective and reminded me that my point of view is valid. Leaning on my supports made this goal not only possible but achievable. #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #differentnotbroken (fb)

Hey, guess who—James here, showing up a little different, not broken. It’s 11 p.m. and I can’t sleep, so I’m here instead... for you. Hope you appreciate it. I’ve still got a big goal ahead that I’m pushing pretty hard to achieve - to walk again, but I’ve realized something deeper: the real destination is independence. And tonight, I wanted to talk about some other goals I’ve been thinking about. One big piece of that puzzle is building an income, something more than just that dream million-dollar pension (I wish!). Lately, I’ve been digging into what really drives me, and it’s clear I want to help people. More than anything. One thing led to another, and now I’ve got this crazy idea: I want to make a real difference in my community. Through politics. Yeah, I know. I’m not saying I need to be Prime Minister or anything, but maybe becoming a local member? That’s where the real impact starts. I see a lot of BS out there, and honestly, I believe I could rise above it. I’m here to make a change and it’s going to be a bright one. Let’s go! #ABI #TBI #braininjuryawareness #headstogetherforbraininjury #nonprofit #braininjury #acquiredbraininjury #headinjury #traumaticbraininjury #braininjurysupport #mentalwellbeing #braininjuryadvocacy #inclusivity #LivedExperience #Volunteering #ABIAwareness #ABISurvivor #TBISurvivor #braininjurysurvivor #YouCantBeWhatYouCantSee #UnderstandMeUnderstandMyBrainInjury #YouCantUnderstandWhatYouDontKnow #understandingbraininjury #differentnotbroken (fb)