Today’s episode is an honest and poignant interview with author and abuse survivor Dana S. Diaz. Dana spent most of her life in abusive relationships, first as a child and then as a wife to a narcissistic husband for 25 years. Now at 48, she lives on her terms, happily remarried, and shares her story of hope and reclamation.

Dana’s story is extreme, but the reality is many people have been in similar situations, and she shares a lot of truly powerful ways in which we can all take agency in our own lives. When it comes to caring for ourselves, she reminds us to do what makes us happy, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Wear lipstick, paint your nails, or even wear a fancy dress you never get to wear if that makes you happy. Ask yourself “What do I want?”

When it comes to stroking our partners,  Dana says it’s all about “extraordinary respect and kindness”. If there is respect in the relationship then you can discuss your differences and make positive change.  Always show appreciation even for things that seem commonplace, and remember that marriage means you are a part of a team so take care of each other.

Finally, when it comes to friendships, Dana says that “who you surround yourself with greatly affects your self-worth and confidence.” So surround yourself with positive-minded people who add value to your life, so look for friends who are moving forward. Her closing advice,

“Remember that your words have an impact, not just your words to your spouse and your kids and your friends and your coworkers. But how you talk to yourself! … Talk to yourself like you would talk to somebody that you love.”

You read Dana’s blog and find her book at http://danasdiaz.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/danas.diaz/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/DanaSDiazAuthor

About Dana:

Dana S. Diaz is a wife, mother, and author of the best-selling book GASPING FOR AIR: THE STRANGLEHOLD OF NARCISSISTIC ABUSE. Dana has had life-long experience with narcissistic abuse, beginning in childhood. Her education in journalism and psychology at DePaul University in Chicago gave her the ability to accurately verbalize and express how narcissistic abuse creates confusion and conflict within victims, so that she can help other victims know they are not alone and better understand their own circumstances. Today, Dana is a proud voice for fellow victims who are unable, afraid, or ashamed to share their experiences. She strives to create awareness and understan

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