Belonging and Identity Pep Talks
For the moments you’re figuring out who you are, where you fit, and how to grow into yourself — without shrinking to belong.
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Watching Little Giants with my son reminded me of something sports movies have always gotten right: belonging comes before success. From The Sandlot to Remember the Titans, these stories resonate because most of us have felt like outsiders at some point — and finding a place where we belong changes everything.
One year ago, the GRL Initiative began with frustration and a decision to act. This reflective anniversary post explores lessons learned about leadership, allyship, burnout, and building something meaningful—one imperfect step at a time.
The pink tax is real — and it teaches girls early lessons about worth, fairness, and belonging. Here’s how it shows up in sports, school, and leadership.
What happens when athletic administrators are asked about belonging, burnout, and safety instead of strategy? Insights from the National Athletic Directors Conference reveal what leaders are really carrying.
When college athletics ends, the loss isn’t just the game — it’s the structure, identity, and belonging that once held everything together. This reflection explores what really happens after sport, why the transition feels so destabilizing, and how former athletes can begin rebuilding connection and meaning in their next chapter.
Belonging becomes more complex when you’re the minority in the room. This article explores why fitting in feels exhausting, why belonging shifts with identity, and how adults—especially women in leadership—can create spaces where they can breathe, show up authentically, and feel understood.
We spend our lives chasing belonging — to a partner, a team, a purpose — only to realize we can be surrounded by people and still feel alone. This post explores the truth that belonging begins within. When we reconnect to ourselves, we stop performing for acceptance and start creating connection that feels real and lasting.
Reconnection doesn’t happen all at once — it happens in small, quiet moments layered over time. From eye contact to curiosity, repair to ritual, these simple daily practices rebuild the trust and belonging that disconnection slowly erodes. This is how we start bringing the flavor back
Connection is what makes everything work — our families, our friendships, our leadership. It’s the tissue that holds us together in calm and in conflict. When we take time to really see and listen to one another, we build belonging that lasts long after the moment ends. This is the story of why connection is the foundation of every kind of strength.
After realizing connection was the missing ingredient in my life, I went searching for answers. The research is clear — belonging and connection are not nice-to-haves; they’re biological necessities. From Harvard’s 80-year happiness study to the U.S. Surgeon General’s warning about loneliness, science proves that real connection keeps us healthier, happier, and more alive.
If you’ve ever said yes just to keep the peace, this one’s for you. Learn the GRL 3-step formula for setting boundaries that feel authentic—not awkward.
You’ve heard the word boundaries a thousand times, but what does it actually mean? Let’s unpack why they’re not about exclusion—they’re about self-respect.
Your brain is trying to protect you, but sometimes protection looks like mental quicksand. Here's how to spot when your thoughts are working against you.
Why do I put so much into the GRL Initiative—the posts, the vulnerability, the consistent showing up? Sometimes I don't know. But I'm not an overnight sensation; I'm a tugboat—consistent, stable, proven over time. I turn my real struggles into lessons that might help you feel less alone. I'm loud, tall, and a straight shooter, which isn't for everyone. But if you need someone to listen, ask good questions, and help your path feel clearer, I'm here. This isn't a numbers game; it's a heart game. Let's build a safe space for strong, loud leaders in a world that wasn't designed for us.
Think you’re “not athletic”? Think again. From fencing to rowing to ultimate frisbee, this guide helps middle and high schoolers (and their grown-ups) rethink what it means to find the right sport—not just the popular ones. Learn how to explore, sample, and discover the activity that makes you feel like a total athletic rockstar.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words echo across generations, reminding us of the power of courage, resilience, and belief in ourselves. As young female athletes, you’re already proving that strength isn’t just about how fast you run or how high you jump—it’s about the faith you have in your dreams and your ability to work toward them, even when the path ahead isn’t entirely clear.
The world will tell you what to wear, what to eat, what to buy, and who to be. But here’s the truth: YOU ARE ENOUGH. 💖
I’ve been there—feeling like I didn’t fit in, like I wasn’t enough. I tried to belong, but it wasn’t me. And you know what? That’s okay. Being outside the group taught me to value myself for who I really am—quirks and all. 🌟
GRL, you don’t need to follow the machine. Follow your instincts. Chase your passions. Be you. And never forget: boundaries are beautiful. 💪
Finals season is here, and while it can feel overwhelming, it’s totally possible to conquer your exams and projects without sacrificing your sanity. With the right strategies, mindset, and a little bit of self-care, you’ll come out on the other side stronger (and maybe even proud of yourself!). Here’s your go-to guide for absolutely crushing finals.
Your mental health matters as much as your physical health. 💛 Some quick tips: rest isn’t lazy, set boundaries that protect your energy, practice gratitude, move your body, and surround yourself with uplifting people. It’s okay to not be okay. Take care of yourself and don’t hesitate to reach out for help—you’re never alone. 🫶 Let’s normalize prioritizing mental health, one step at a time. #MentalHealthMatters #SelfCare #GenZ"
Introverts, this one’s for you! If you’ve just endured a weekend full of social events and nonstop energy, it’s time to recharge. Learn how to protect your energy, embrace quiet time, and prioritize self-care without guilt. From solo walks to saying “no” when you need a break, this guide will help you reset and feel like yourself again.
➡️ Read more to discover practical tips for recharging and thriving as an introvert. 💕 #SelfCareIsKey
Feeling overwhelmed as a student-athlete? Mindfulness might just be your secret weapon! From quick breathing exercises to visualization techniques, this blog shares easy practices to help you stay calm under pressure, improve focus, and boost your mental well-being.
Discover how just a few minutes of mindfulness can make a big difference in your game—and your life. 💕
➡️ Read more and start building your mental superpower today! ✨
You don’t have to have all the answers or say the perfect thing every time. What matters most is that your daughter knows she’s loved, supported, and never alone in facing life’s challenges.
By creating a safe space to talk about mental health, you’re not just helping her thrive as an athlete—you’re helping her thrive as a person.
This birthday feels different. At 42, I’ve spent a year doing the hard internal work — exploring my identity, redefining connections, setting boundaries, and beginning the long journey toward true belonging. I’m not there yet, but I’m growing, stretching, and becoming in ways I’m finally proud of.