A recent conversation at the gym got me (Will) thinking about how we approach confidence and focus. We were chatting at the end of an intense session. My gym mate shared how glad they were to have shown up, despite feeling pretty average at the start of class. They described how much better they felt…
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Do you ever feel like you’ve lost sight of who you really are? Many Asian Australians grow up balancing cross-cultural expectations with personal desires. We learn to prioritise duty, achievement, and harmony often at the cost of our authenticity. Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned physician and trauma therapist, explains in his book The Myth of…
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Intergenerational trauma is a complex and often overlooked issue that can have a significant impact on our emotional and mental health. The results from our recent quiz on the key area Family Expectations & Cultural Pressure shed light on the struggles many of us face when it comes to navigating the expectations and pressures placed…
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Christmas is often portrayed as the happiest time of the year, filled with laughter, connection, and celebration. But the reality is, for many people, it’s also one of the most stressful. Financial pressures can pile up, with expectations to buy the “perfect” gifts or host grand gatherings. Social commitments can feel overwhelming, especially when they…
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In a deeply personal episode of the Soul Boom podcast, Bobby Lee, a Korean American stand-up comedian, actor and podcaster, shared his stories involving family trauma, addiction, and the transformative power of therapy. His story is not just about recovery, but also a testament to the importance of understanding and healing the layers of pain…
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In Part 1, we explored the personal and cultural factors that contribute to underdeveloped boundaries and limits in Asian Australian culture. Let’s dive into actionable steps you can take to strengthen and assert your boundaries in everyday life. Here are some practical steps to help you build and reinforce your boundaries and limits: 1. Identify…
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Do you often feel like your life isn’t entirely your own? Like the decisions you make, the actions you take, and the paths you follow are more dictated by others than by your own desires? You’re not alone. For many Asian Australians, the family or community often takes precedence over the individual, and boundaries and…
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The Silent Pressure of Expectations You’ve always strived to meet the expectations of others—whether it’s your parents, extended family, or even the broader community. In cultures where strong family values and collectivism are of utmost importance, you may feel the weight of these expectations every day. This article isn’t about dismissing those values but about…
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As professionals dedicated to helping others, it’s crucial to recognise the specific type of stress you’re experiencing. Are you facing burnout, compassion fatigue, or vicarious trauma? Each of these has distinct characteristics that can profoundly impact your well-being and your ability to care for others. Burnout: When Workplace Stress Becomes Overwhelming Definition: Burnout is a…
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