For as long as I can remember, anxiety has been woven into my story. Growing up in the 1980s—long before emotional well-being was part of the conversation—I was a highly sensitive child overwhelmed by constant worry and a deep sense of not being enough. This pattern of high-functioning anxiety followed me into adulthood, manifesting in relentless perfectionism, burnout, and even chronic fatigue syndrome.

In this solo episode of Stepping into Purpose, I open up about my personal journey through these challenges and share the transformative tools that helped me heal. I discuss:

1. My Early Struggles with Anxiety:

   • How growing up in the 80s, without the language or understanding of emotional well-being, shaped my lifelong battle with anxiety.
   • The impact of internalizing family struggles and absorbing emotions as a highly sensitive child.

2. The Breaking Points:

   • The onset of burnout in my early 20s during my first full-time office job.
   • The grueling experience of chronic fatigue syndrome after years of overworking in the film industry.

3. Discovering the Power of Nervous System Regulation:

   • The moment I realized that true healing had to start within the body.
   • How intuitive practices—like simple, unstructured breathwork, meditation, and gentle movement—helped me shift from a state of overwhelm to one of calm and clarity.

4. Embracing Self-Worth & Authentic Living:

   • Learning that anxiety may always be part of my life, but it doesn’t have to control it.
   • The importance of nurturing myself, listening to my body’s cues, and accepting that my best is always enough.

This episode is for anyone who’s felt trapped by anxiety or burnt out by the relentless pressure to be perfect. I want you to know: You are not alone, and there are tools to help you manage, heal, and thrive.

💛⁠Sign up for my free mini course "Thrive With Self-Worth" and 👇

💛Download my free guide "10 Hidden Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety (And What to Do About Them!)" and start your journey to self-worth today!

Connect with Me:

• Instagram:@lydiagillman.lovetoatee
• Website : https://www.lydia-gillman.com
• Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

Tune in and discover how you can reclaim your peace and step into a life of purpose—even when anxiety feels overwhelming.