Too often though, we ignore those feelings. We call them irrational or we worry that other people will think we’re irrational. This is made worse by a society that already accuses women, LGBTQ+ folks, and people of color of being “hypersensitive.”
As part of our process of not just “getting through” our experiences but authentically growing from them, we need to make more space for our gut feeling.
A little experiment to try: take a moment right now, whether you are in your office, your home, or walking down the street, to pause and observe. Put your feet on the floor, your back against a chair or wall, and look around. Breathe. Now, listen to your gut:
- What is it telling you?
- Do you feel safe? Loved? Scared?
Whatever it is, try and sit in that feeling for as long as you can stand it. When it becomes too much, or you find your mind wandering, take a deep breathe and see what it feels like to release that emotion (if only for a moment).
Building awareness of your emotions leads to choice. There is nothing more disempowering than harassment. We want to help you get your power back -- one gut feeling at a time.
With love,
Hollaback!
P.S. If a story of harassment is coming up for you right now -- the best thing you can do is to release it. Write it down or share it on our site as a way of being able to hold it -- instead of letting it hold you.
P.P.S. You got this. We’re right there with you.