Rebuilding Confidence After Abuse | From Shy to Shining Again

The Power of Being Lifted Up, Step by Step

After years of being torn down, rebuilding your confidence doesn’t happen overnight. It doesn’t start with a makeover or a bold new plan. It starts with tiny moments—when someone reminds you who you are.

And I was lucky enough to have two incredible women by my side in those early, fragile months.

The Coaching Group That Planted a Seed

Before I ever left, I had been quietly working on gaining skills. I joined a sales & marketing coaching group—not quite knowing what I was looking for, but needing something to believe in. At the time, I didn’t even realise I was preparing for my escape. I didn’t have a proper exit fund or a full plan in place when the moment came (you can read more about that here in The Day I Knew I Had to Leave).

But I was learning. Growing. Laying bricks beneath me.

And that’s where I met Sharron Goodyear.

The Woman Who Answered the Phone whenever I needed her.

Sharron is more than just a best friend. She’s an international photographer, a Life Branding Coach, and one of the kindest souls I’ve ever known.

She was my emotional rock. The person I could call in the middle of the night when anxiety wrapped around my throat. The one who whispered strength back into me when I had nothing left. She powered love into me when I felt unlovable.

She didn’t just listen—she lifted me

.

She reminded me that I wasn’t weak for breaking down—I was human. And still here.

From Shy to Shining: A Moment I’ll Never Forget

One day, she took me shopping. That might sound simple—but when you’ve been conditioned to feel small, even choosing an outfit can feel overwhelming.

I had spent so long hiding. Avoiding clothes that made me stand out. Fearing attention. Choosing safety over style.

And on that day—with Sharron beside me—I didn’t just try on clothes. I tried on possibility.

Piece by piece, I started to see myself differently. I walked out of that shop feeling like a million dollars. Not because of the outfit, but because someone believed in me until I could believe in myself.

Rebuilding Confidence Isn’t Loud

It’s not always selfies and affirmations. Sometimes it’s a quiet phone call at 2am. Sometimes it’s being told, “You’re allowed to want more.” Sometimes it’s someone placing their hands on your shoulders and saying, “You’ve got this.”

Confidence is rebuilt through love. Through safety. Through kindness.
And I am forever grateful to Sharron for being that for me.

We all need someone who lifts us when we’ve forgotten how to stand.

To the Woman Relearning Her Worth

If you’re reading this and feel like you’re starting from nothing, please know—confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you rebuild.

And you don’t need to do it alone.

Start by surrounding yourself with even one voice that sees your magic. Follow people who lift you. Reach out. Ask for help. And if you’re lucky enough to have a Sharron in your life, hold her close.

🔥 Your Healing Challenge Today

• Write down ONE thing someone once said that made you feel strong.
• Say it to yourself in the mirror today. Out loud. Like you mean it.
• And if you know someone who could use the same—send it to her.
• 
  

You are stronger than your struggles. And you are allowed to shine again.

📚 RECOMMENDED FOR YOU:

💡 Coming Soon: "It Starts With the Washing" by Sharron Goodyear – This beautiful book, written by my best friend and emotional anchor, is almost ready for the world. Being part of her journey as she wrote it has been a blessing. Through personal stories and powerful tips, this guide will help you live your best life—especially when everything feels upside down. I recommend it with all my heart to anyone who is struggling and searching for light in the dark.

💡 Follow: @sharrongoodyear on Instagram – for daily empowerment, mindset shifts, and soulful guidance.