The Stories We Inherit
Hello Brave Ones,
Let’s talk about the stories we’ve been told—and the ones we’ve carried without question. From the moment we’re born, society hands us narratives about who we’re supposed to be. Be nice. Be quiet. Be accommodating. And for heaven’s sake, don’t make waves.
Here’s the thing: those stories weren’t written for us. They were written to control us. And the most insidious part? We’ve internalized them so deeply that we start telling them to ourselves.
But what happens when we stop?
The Stories We Inherit
Every single one of us has a set of inherited narratives. Some come from our families—“That’s just how things are done around here.” Some come from culture—“Good women don’t…” And some come from the systems we live in—systems that were built to maintain power structures, not empower us.
Here’s a story I used to believe: “If I don’t keep everyone happy, I’ll be seen as difficult.” It wasn’t something anyone said to me outright. It was in the way people reacted when I spoke my mind, when I set a boundary, when I took up space. So, for years, I told myself: “Just go along with it. Don’t upset anyone. It’s easier this way.”
And you know what? It was easier—for everyone else. But for me? It was exhausting.
The truth is, inherited stories are convenient—for the people who benefit from them. But for those of us trying to live authentically, they’re chains. They keep us stuck in roles we didn’t choose and lives that don’t reflect who we truly are.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to keep telling those stories. You have the power to rewrite them.
This week, I invite you to start noticing the stories you’ve inherited. They might sound like:
“I should put others’ needs before my own.”
“I can’t say no—it’s rude.”
“I’m too emotional to be taken seriously.”
Now, ask yourself: Who benefits from me believing this? And what happens if I stop?
Because here’s the thing: the stories you tell yourself will shape the life you live. Make sure they’re stories that serve you.
Tools for Transformation
The Narrative Rewrite Practice
Take a piece of paper and divide it into two columns.
On the left, write down one limiting story you’ve been telling yourself (e.g., “I need to say yes to everything to be liked.”).
On the right, rewrite that story in a way that empowers you (e.g., “Saying no is an act of self-respect, and the right people will honor my boundaries.”).
Read your new story aloud every day this week. Let it sink in.
Transformation doesn’t just happen—it’s intentional. This practice can help you reclaim the narrative and take the first steps toward freedom.
Power Playlist
This Week’s Song: “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child
Why This Song?: "This anthem is a declaration of resilience and self-reclamation. It’s a reminder that no matter what you’ve been through—or what stories you’ve been told—you have the strength to rise above."
What’s Next
Next week, we’re diving into tools for reclaiming your power. Think boundaries, brave conversations, and unapologetic living.
For Paid Subscribers:
This week, you’ll find your exclusive audio guide:
Audio Guide Title: "How Patriarchy Gaslights Us"
In this audio, we’ll explore how societal narratives manipulate women into doubting their power—and how to break free.
You’ll also receive this week’s paid subscriber challenge:
Challenge Title: "Spot the Story"
I’ll guide you through identifying inherited narratives and replacing them with ones that reflect your truth.
Unfiltered Moment
This week, I caught myself in an old story: “If I ask for help, I’m failing.” I was juggling too much, and instead of reaching out, I thought, “I should be able to handle this on my own.” But then I paused and asked myself: Who benefits from me struggling in silence?
So, I did something radical: I asked for help. And you know what? The world didn’t end. No one thought less of me. In fact, the people I asked were happy to step up. It was a reminder that sometimes, the bravest thing we can do is rewrite the story that says we have to do it all alone.
In Your Corner, Always
Brave ones, you are not defined by the stories handed to you. You are the author of your own life. This week, I challenge you to start rewriting—not just for yourself, but for everyone who looks to you as proof that it’s possible.
Let me know how this lands for you. Reply to this email, share your wins, or just say hi. I’m here, cheering you on every step of the way.
Dee
Why Upgrade to Paid?
Brave Ones, the free content in this newsletter is just the beginning. When you upgrade to paid, you unlock an even deeper, more transformative experience designed to support your journey toward empowerment and self-reclamation.
Here’s what you’ll get as a paid subscriber:
Exclusive Audio Guides:
Think of these as personal, intimate conversations where I dive into the heart of each week’s theme. These guides go beyond the newsletter, giving you practical tools, stories, and insights to carry with you. It’s like having a trusted voice in your ear, cheering you on.Actionable Challenges:
Each week, I’ll create a guided challenge exclusively for paid subscribers. These are designed to take the concepts we explore and turn them into real, tangible shifts in your life. It’s not just about learning—it’s about doing.Deeper Connection:
As a paid subscriber, you’ll have access to insights and practices that foster growth on a whole new level. It’s where the real, raw, transformative work happens.Support Your Own Transformation:
By upgrading, you’re investing in yourself—and that’s one of the most empowering decisions you can make.
Ready to take the next step? Upgrade today, and let’s make this journey even more transformative—together.