Why You Don't Feel Like Yourself Anymore

In this episode, we're talking about something that so many women experience—but don't always have the words for: what it feels like to slowly (or sometimes quickly) lose your sense of self in a narcissistic or toxic relationship. From gaslighting and love bombing to isolation, control, and the silent treatment, these patterns aren't random—they're strategic. And over time, they can disconnect you from your intuition, your voice, and your identity. We'll break down how these dynamics impact not just your emotions, but your brain and nervous system—keeping you stuck in survival mode, where clarity, confidence, and self-trust become harder and harder to access. If you've ever found yourself second-guessing everything, walking on eggshells, or wondering, "Who even am I right now?"—this episode will help you understand why. Here's the shift: you didn't lose yourself because something is wrong with you—you adapted to survive. And now, you get to choose something different. We'll talk about what healthy relationships actually look like, how to recognize green flags, and how to begin reconnecting with who you are—so you can choose relationships that don't require you to disappear. KEY TAKEAWAYS Green Flags: Mutual respect Trust Honesty Compromise Individuality Good communication Anger control Fighting fair Problem solving Understanding Self-confidence Being a role model Healthy sexual relationship Support Fairness and equality Safety Conflict resolution BEST MOMENTS There is nothing stronger than a broken woman who has rebuilt herself. — Hannah Gadsby Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we'll ever do. — Brené Brown You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection. — Sharon Salzberg The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any. — Alice Walker Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do. — Carol Dweck VALUABLE RESOURCES If you're struggling in a relationship and wondering if it might be controlling, you're not alone. Download my free guide at locatecoaching.com/freegift to help you find clarity and confidence. EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT Check out other episodes of Life After: From Surviving to Thriving: https://sites.libsyn.com/460833/site ABOUT THE HOST Jill McKnight is a mindset coach and speaker as well as an Erickson Professional Certified Coach. She specializes in supporting those who are rebuilding their lives and finding their most aligned path forward. Jill knows that the tips and tricks in each episode work – because she's used them to change her life and her clients have used them to change their lives! Jill has the education and life experience to help you rebuild your life, whatever the circumstances… and move from surviving to thriving! Through her talks, events, programs, and podcast "Life After: From Surviving to Thriving", Jill provides her clients with a unique mix of thoughtful guidance and sincere care. She lives in a small town in Washington with her son and is committed to co-create a world with more hope, connection, and healing for us all. CONNECT & CONTACT TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@locatecoaching IG: https://www.instagram.com/locatecoaching/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwEImRGJXX4hrdS_NM3wWXg Email: [e-mail]