On today’s episode, I share my interview with my friend, Ryan Kassim on his podcast.  The conversation explores personal stories, self-identity, and changing patterns to create a more fulfilling life. We discuss the importance of recognizing and changing coping mechanisms, as well as the significance of communication and honesty in relationships. We dive deep into the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in relationships, emphasizing the need to show one's true self and communicate effectively. I share my personal experience of being in an abusive relationship and how it has affected her ability to be vulnerable. We also talk about the significance of reframing assumptions and practicing positive thinking to avoid negative spirals. We explore the understanding and utilization of personal behaviors and patterns, as well as the power of self-talk and creating positive environments. The conversation concludes with a discussion on appreciating little moments and personal growth. We talk about: -Recognize the patterns in your life and seek feedback from others to gain an objective perspective of yourself. -Understand the emotions and triggers that lead to negative behaviors and develop alternative strategies to cope. -Avoid replacing one coping mechanism with another and be aware of the intentions behind your behaviors. -Face hard conversations and be honest with yourself and others to build trust and create healthier relationships. Vulnerability and authenticity are crucial in relationships, both with others and with oneself. -Communicating past trauma and personal struggles is important for building understanding and trust in relationships. -Reframing assumptions and practicing positive thinking can help avoid negative spirals and improve mental well-being. -Understanding and utilizing personal behaviors and patterns can lead to personal growth and success. -Self-talk plays a significant role in shaping one's mindset and creating positive environments. -Appreciating little moments in life can bring joy and contribute to personal growth. Time Stamps:  01:00 Personal Stories about Nieces and Nephews 03:03 Journey from Sports to Psychology 09:41 Discovering Self-Identity 14:00 Creating Awareness and Changing Patterns 21:56 Recognizing and Changing Coping Mechanisms 32:21 Avoiding Hard Conversations and Facing the Truth 38:21 Replacing Coping Mechanisms and Taking Action 43:04 Importance of Communication and Honesty in Relationships 45:17 The Importance of Vulnerability and Authenticity 48:07 Communicating Past Trauma in Relationships 49:28 Reframing Assumptions and Positive Thinking 50:21 Understanding and Utilizing Personal Behaviors and Patterns 51:36 The Power of Self-Talk and Creating Positive Environments 52:59 Appreciating Little Moments and Personal Growth CONNECT WITH KAIT: IG: https://www.instagram.com/kaitannmichelle/ Team LevelUp: https://www.instagram.com/team.levlup/ Email: [email protected] Free FB Community: : https://www.facebook.com/groups/levluptraining TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kaitannmichelle Email List: First Dibs on Freebies and Tips! Twitter: https://twitter.com/kaitannmichelle SnapChat: https://snapchat.com/add/kait.callahan22 Legion Code: CoachK CONNECT WITH RYAN: IG: https://www.instagram.com/bodybyryanfitness/