“The impact of childhood #trauma manifested strongly in my life, particularly during my university years. I experienced an overwhelming sense of inadequacy and an incessant need for validation and approval.
This desire for acceptance drove me to fulfil the expectations of others, often disregarding my own well-being in the process. Regrettably, I found myself occasionally associating with the wrong crowd, only to realize the mistake later and strive to break away from that negative influence. However, despite my best efforts, I would sometimes find myself repeating the same patterns, struggling to break free from habits rooted in my challenging upbringing.
The absence of therapeutic tools and guidance further exacerbated my difficulties. Without the support of a therapist, I lacked the necessary resources to navigate these complex emotions and experiences effectively. Even though I excelled academically, achieving success in my studies, I still carried an overwhelming sense of inadequacy. It felt as if I could never truly measure up or be good enough, regardless of my accomplishments.
A particular incident from my high school days stands out in my memory. Upon coming in second place, my father’s dismissive comment questioning the intelligence of the student who secured the top position deeply discouraged me. It shattered my confidence and made me doubt my abilities. As a result, I gave up on striving for excellence.
The echoes of my father’s voice continued to haunt me, even as I embarked on a Master’s degree program. Deep down, I questioned the significance of pursuing an MBA. I asked myself, “Whom am I trying to impress? Will it truly matter in the end?” These doubts, coupled with nearing my 30s at the time, ultimately led to my decision to drop out. Yes! I dropped out.
This story powerfully illustrates how childhood trauma can create a lasting impact on:
1. One’s self-perception
2. Decision-making
3. Aspirations
The constant pursuit of validation, feelings of inadequacy, and the lingering influence of parental criticism all played significant roles in shaping my choices and hindering my personal growth”.
The above narrative is a glimpse of what awaits you in my forthcoming book. I firmly believe that the time has come for the world to immerse itself in my stories and establish a profound connection with me. Get ready to embark on a journey of understanding, empathy, and personal growth. Stay tuned and let’s delve into this transformative experience together.
I, Abigail Oni, am here as your dedicated Psychotherapist and Trauma Specialist.
I am enthusiastic about speaking engagements and collaborating with others on topics related to mental health, wellness, healing from Childhood Trauma, and rediscovering and connecting with your inner child.