Down to Me
Why does this phrase keep coming back to me, time and time again? Because during a period in my life when I felt isolated and disconnected, it became my anchor. It was a lifeline, something I repeated to myself over and over: “It’s down to me.”
I vividly remember those pandemic days when the world felt smaller, yet my loneliness seemed amplified. People would kindly say, “Call anytime!” But Saturdays were the hardest. No one seemed to pick up the phone. I’d sit there thinking, “Well, it’s down to me, isn’t it? Whatever I’m feeling, whatever I need to say or share—it’s all on me.”
At first, this felt harsh, like I was scolding myself. I told myself, “I’m going to have to be my own best friend.” It sounded lonely, even punitive, but eventually, it gave me something unexpected: fortitude. There was freedom in that realisation—I didn’t need people in the way I once thought I did.
That’s not to say I didn’t value connection. People are wonderful, and relationships are vital, but during that time, I realised I could survive emotionally and psychologically by leaning on myself. It wasn’t easy. There were times the lack of connection hurt deeply. But it pushed me to rely on my own inner resources, and that became a powerful turning point.
Reignite: Finding Strength in “Down to Me”
As I moved closer to coaching and developed a more positive mindset, I started to see “Down to Me” in a new light. It wasn’t just a survival mantra for tough times; it became a reminder of my resilience and inner strength.
I realised that everything I needed to navigate challenges was already within me:
- My skills.
- My creativity.
- My ability to adapt and persevere.
This realisation wasn’t about rejecting others but about honouring my full self. It was about reigniting my belief in my own potential and acknowledging that I had a wealth of resources to draw on.
Reframe: From Survival to Empowerment
I began to reframe “Down to Me” not as a burden but as empowerment. Instead of seeing it as a lonely truth, I recognised it as a powerful one. It allowed me to take responsibility for my well-being without waiting for external validation or rescue.
This shift in mindset was profound. I started to see my own strengths clearly. I was capable of coping with situations I’d never believed I could handle. “Down to Me” stopped being a statement of frustration and became something I cherish—a reminder that I am resourceful, capable, and resilient.
Reprioritise: Opening Up to What Matters
Through this inner work, I found myself naturally reprioritising what truly mattered.
- I embraced connections with people not out of necessity but from a place of genuine appreciation.
- I found balance in my life, recognising the importance of self-care alongside my goals.
- I redefined what I wanted to invest my energy in, letting go of what no longer served me.
By trusting my inner strength, I could also lean into new possibilities. This is the foundation of what I bring into my coaching practice: helping others reignite their passion, reframe their narratives, re-prioritise their lives, and restore balance.
Restore: Thriving, Not Just Surviving
The shift in my mindset didn’t just help me survive—it helped me thrive. I was no longer just getting through; I was opening up to joy, growth, and connection.
What I’ve learned is that these transformations are possible for anyone. And it starts with asking yourself:
- What messages, programmes, or mantras are you telling yourself right now?
- Which of these are holding you back, and how can you turn them on their head to serve the life you want to create?
What About You?
What resonates for you right now? Are you ready to explore how the words and thoughts you repeat to yourself can transform into empowerment, resilience, and growth?
The choice is yours. Or, as I like to remind myself: “Down to Me.”
