Needing Permission

Five Year You

Episode Overview:

In this episode, Andrew and Catherine tackle a common challenge—needing permission. Whether it’s waiting for approval to rest, to buy something for yourself, or to pursue a new goal, many of us feel like we need someone else’s okay to live the life we want. The hosts dig deep into why we feel this way, how it’s tied to worthiness, and how we can begin to give ourselves permission to live on our own terms. Filled with relatable stories, practical advice, and a healthy dose of humor, this episode is about empowering you to step into your own life.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Roots of Needing Permission: How childhood conditioning and societal expectations play into our adult lives, creating the habit of seeking external approval.
• The Role of Worthiness: The hosts explore how needing permission is often a reflection of feeling unworthy or undeserving of the things we want.
• Permission to Rest and Care for Yourself: Catherine shares her struggle with feeling like she needs approval to take a break or do something for herself, even in her own home.
• The Life Checklist: Andrew and Catherine discuss the societal "checklist" of life that tells us what we should be doing, and how breaking away from that can make us feel like we need validation.
• Practical Steps for Self-Permission: Tips on how to start small by giving yourself permission for little things, building up to bigger goals, and how this ties into living a life of purpose.

Actionable Steps for Listeners:

1. Start Small: Give yourself permission for simple things like taking a break, buying a small treat, or doing something you enjoy.
2. Awareness: Begin noticing the moments when you feel like you need permission from others and ask yourself why.
3. Affirm Your Worthiness: Remind yourself that you are worthy of good things, whether it's a snack or a big life change, without needing external validation.
4. Journal Your Desires: Write down the things you want to do but haven’t given yourself permission for yet. Start with one and give yourself the green light.

Quotes:

"The only person you need permission from is yourself. Start small, and build that muscle of self-approval." – Andrew Dewar

"If something keeps bubbling up inside of you, that’s your heart talking. Give yourself permission to follow it." – Catherine Collins

Glimmers of the Week:

• Andrew: Excited about his new discovery—Siesta chips, a healthier snack made with cassava flour that’s both satisfying and good for him, especially the churro-flavored ones.
• Catherine: Cherishing a surprise manicure and pedicure session she shared with her daughter, making for a special bonding moment.

Resources Mentioned:

• Feeling Wheel – For identifying and processing emotions.

Connect with Us:

• Visit Five Year You to sign up for emails from your future self, and start making decisions that align with your purpose.
• Follow us on Instagram @fiveyearyou.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical or emotional concerns. Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a little permission to live life on their own terms. See you next week!