Between Self-Abandonment & Explosion, Softness = Power

We’re taught to toughen up, care less, harden ourselves. But you probably already know that none of that actually works. It doesn't make us safer or more confident, it just sends us into a tug of war with ourselves. In this episode, April unpacks the powerful middle ground — where softness and self-respect can live together — and shares a story that reframes what real strength can look like.

In This Episode:

• Why “toughening up” disconnects you from your instincts
• The trap of believing softness equals weakness
• How we confuse fear-based posturing with strength
• The difference between the performance of confidence and genuine grounded power
• What it looks like to be clear without being cruel
• How to listen to your body’s cues instead of overriding them
• The third option between collapsing and attacking
• Why real safety lives in self-trust, not force.

Key Takeaways:

• Softness isn’t vulnerability to harm — it’s your internal compass.
• If you have to try to force someone to respect you and treat you well- you're dealing with a completely different problem.
• Power isn’t making others bend to your will; it’s knowing you can have your own back in any room you walk into.
• Discernment comes from staying connected to yourself and listening to your emotions, not armouring up and shutting down.
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Links Mentioned:

• Join the Bold as Love Collective Experience (starting January)
• Learn more about the program
• Connect with April on Instagram / Email

Want to get better at speaking up? Sign up for the free on-demand workshop that will help you be more confident in standing your ground when you're dealing with a boundary bulldozer. Sign up here.

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Please note:

This show is not a replacement for therapy, assessment, treatment or diagnosis. This show is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. See your physician, counsellor or local crisis support centre if needed

All identifying details about the people and the stories shared here are removed to protect confidentiality.