Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Carrie Irene Crosby. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Carrie Irene, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
Finding My Voice: The Journey to Self-Esteem and Confidence
There was a moment in my life when the weight of despair pressed down so heavily that I nearly succumbed to it. I vividly remember the night my parents discovered I was gay—a revelation that felt like shattering glass, the sharp edges cutting deep into the fabric of my existence. In that dark hour, I stood on the precipice of despair, contemplating the unthinkable. The world felt overwhelmingly heavy, and I felt utterly alone.
Yet, amidst that darkness, a flicker of realization ignited within me: I was the one holding the pen to my life story. I was the only one responsible for my happiness, my self-worth, and my identity. In that moment of crisis, I discovered a profound truth: if I could muster the courage to speak the words I desperately needed to hear—words of compassion, validation, and love—I could begin to rewrite my inner dialogue.
So, I started a conversation with myself. I envisioned what I would say to a friend in pain, someone struggling with their identity and feeling lost. I asked myself, “How do you see yourself? What are you? Who are you?” I believe we should regularly engage with these questions. Our perceptions of ourselves are vital to our self-maintenance. However, we must tread carefully with the labels we adopt.
I noticed in my earlier years that I often categorized myself by what others called me—by my skills or achievements. “Oh, he’s a ballplayer,” or “She’s the smart kid.” We are frequently defined by our professions, too: teacher, artist, nurse, or doctor. While these titles can reflect our talents and roles, they are merely subtitles to our true selves. First and foremost, we are simply who we are—complex individuals shaped by our experiences. No one knows you the way you do, nor will they ever. Whether you perceive yourself as kind, selfish, dependable, or honest, that perception shapes your reality. So, it’s crucial to be mindful of the labels you give yourself; they define your character.
Do you remember how our elders used to say, “If you don’t have anything nice to say about someone, then don’t say anything at all”? What they often fail to mention is that this wisdom applies to how we speak to ourselves. Yes, people may try to label you, but what others think or say about you reveals more about them than it does about you. Strive to be the person who sees more good in others than flaws, for that mindset reflects back on you.
The inner conversations you have with yourself are pivotal. When negative thoughts creep in, don’t just push them away; acknowledge them with authority. Be ready with affirmations—powerful reminders of your worth. As I began to cultivate this practice, a shift occurred within me. I could feel the cracks in my self-esteem slowly mending, each positive affirmation stitching together the fabric of my identity.
One thing I’ve learned is that good character is something we must never deny ourselves. You and I are the only ones who truly know our character. We carry within us the knowledge of our good deeds and our mistakes—things we may never share with anyone else. Ensure that what you know to be true about yourself leans more toward the good, with a purpose that uplifts rather than diminishes.
In addition to being true to who you are, strive to be true to who you want to become. Picture your future self and embody the traits of that person today. If you aspire to be a leader, take on the characteristics of a leader. If you want to be a dancer, embrace the habits of a dancer. This conscious mimicry of your future self’s behaviors creates a bridge to who you are meant to be.
Though your future self may feel distant, every decision you make today brings you closer. The moment you envision who you want to become, you initiate a transformation that is both profound and empowering. Remember, growth does not happen overnight. Faith is not merely what you believe by sight; it’s what you know deep within. Give yourself time, and you will not only see the transformation but feel it as well.
Today, I stand firm in my authenticity, knowing that I have transformed the painful parts of my past into stepping stones toward self-love. The experience that once threatened to consume me became a catalyst for growth and empowerment. I learned to embrace my true self, and in doing so, I found not just confidence but also a profound sense of purpose.
To anyone reading this, know that your story is still being written. Your worth is inherent, and you have the power to change your inner dialogue. Embrace your journey, and don’t shy away from the beautiful, complex person you are meant to be.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Hello, I’m Carrie Irene Crosby, and my passion lies in helping people transform their lives. With multiple certifications in coaching—including ACC, PCC, and MCC ICF Life Coaching—I have dedicated my career to empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential. My training as a Law of Attraction Coach, Mindfulness Coach, Reiki Master, LGBTQ+ Relationship Coach, Self-Development Coach, and Transformational Life Coach uniquely positions me to support a diverse range of clients.
To channel my enthusiasm and expertise, I founded the ATBA Impact Group. My vision is to create the largest virtual and physical community center dedicated to fostering self-empowerment, particularly for entrepreneurs ready to elevate their journeys. At ATBA Impact Group, we plant positive seeds of change through a variety of workshops, classes, courses, and both live and virtual empowerment events.
One of my most anticipated events is the 5th Annual Healing Summit, where we explore various modalities of healing. This summit offers participants the opportunity to craft their own personalized healing plans, ensuring they receive the support they need. Our approach is holistic, recognizing that everyone’s path to wellness is unique.
Additionally, I host an energetic workshop called Everyday Alchemy every quarter. This engaging session provides practical tools that attendees can use for a lifetime. The next workshop will take place on January 11 at 11:11 AM CST. Join us to learn how to harness the power of energy to transform your everyday life.
At ATBA Impact Group, everything we do is energy-based, designed to empower you to thrive in every aspect of your life. I invite you to join our community, where you’ll find the support and resources you need to navigate your personal and professional journeys with confidence.
Together, let’s cultivate the self-empowerment that will lead you to your next level of success. I look forward to connecting with you!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back on my journey, I believe the three most impactful qualities that have shaped my path are self-awareness, curiosity, and the commitment to show up for myself. Often, we find ourselves waiting for others to support us or validate our passions. However, it’s crucial to realize that we must first show up for ourselves. This awareness became clear to me in a defining moment during my time working at a popular retailer known for its eclectic items. I encountered a man searching for stones to attract peace, a request that prompted a deeper conversation about his true desires and the obstacles he faced.
As we spoke, I learned that he was a community advocate striving to promote peace amid violence in his neighborhood. I was eager to help him find the perfect stone, but as I asked questions, I realized I was leading him to consider what peace truly meant to him. When I finally asked him to define peace, the silence hung in the air like a thick fog, and it struck me that he didn’t need a stone at all; he needed to understand that he was the source of the peace he sought. This moment of clarity emphasized the importance of knowing your passion and using it as a foundation for personal growth.
For those early in their journeys, my advice is to cultivate self-awareness by exploring your passions and asking the right questions. What drives you? What do you wish to change in your life or community? Engaging in this self-discovery will help you develop the curiosity to seek out knowledge and connections that align with your values. Like the man in my story, you may find that what you are searching for is already within you, waiting for you to show up and embrace it.
Ultimately, committing to show up for yourself is a transformative practice. Each time you step forward in pursuit of your goals, you reinforce your self-worth and create a ripple effect of change around you. Just as I encouraged that man to realize he held the key to peace, I urge you to embrace your own potential. Every action you take in alignment with your passions not only elevates your own life but also inspires those around you. So, embark on your journey with intention, and remember that showing up for yourself is the first step toward creating the life you desire.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
The book that has most profoundly influenced my life is The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer. In it, Singer explores the nature of consciousness and the importance of observing our thoughts rather than becoming entangled in them. He emphasizes that true freedom comes from letting go of our inner chatter and connecting with the deeper essence of who we are. This idea resonates deeply with me, as it encourages us to step back from the noise of everyday life and recognize that we have the power to shape our experiences through our perspective. By untethering ourselves from limiting beliefs and emotional patterns, we can embrace a more expansive view of our potential.
Similarly, Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist beautifully illustrates the journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of one’s personal legend. The protagonist, Santiago, learns that the universe conspires to help those who follow their dreams, emphasizing that we are all the designers of our own destinies. Coelho’s narrative reminds us that the journey itself is just as important as the destination, filled with lessons, challenges, and growth. Santiago’s encounters along his path mirror the trials we face in our lives, reinforcing the idea that every experience is a stepping stone toward our true purpose.
Together, these books highlight a profound truth: while we may feel like mere players in the grand narrative of life, we are, in fact, the architects of our own stories. The same hand that writes the threads of the universe also guides us in crafting our individual destinies. By embracing the insights from The Untethered Soul and The Alchemist, I have learned to trust in the journey, let go of fear, and take ownership of my path. We all have the power to align with our true selves and manifest our dreams, reminding us that every step we take is part of a larger, beautifully orchestrated design.
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