Belonging Starts Within: From Fitting In to Showing Up

Belonging is something we all desire. But what if most of us have been thinking about it backwards?

In this episode of Blank Pages, we explore the difference between fitting in and truly belonging. Through personal stories and lessons learned over time, we unpack how the pressure to be accepted can quietly pull us away from who we really are.

The conversation moves from childhood experiences to adult relationships, from Brené Brown’s idea of “true belonging” to the challenges of living in a world where fear and division make connection harder than ever. Along the way, we explore how belonging isn’t about finding the right group first, but about being comfortable enough with yourself to show up authentically with others.