Building Confidence Through Adversity - with Claire Whitehouse, Stroke Survivor

Have you ever felt like you've lost your confidence or you don't have a sense of purpose in life? Feel like you're a burden and don't fit in? Have you wanted to hide yourself away because you can't easily do the things that you think you should be able to do? Claire Whitehouse felt this way when she had a Stroke and was told she wouldn't walk again at the age of 19. Once an active perfectionist, she began to experience social anxiety and isolation and struggled with her thoughts and emotions. But Claire tells us that her disability has opened her eyes to her true abilities.Here she shares her story with us and explores some of the tools and thoughts that helped her to maintain a 'have a go' mindset that allowed her to embrace imperfection and failure and shift her perspective to what's important in life; which eventually led Claire to defy the neurologists' predications and get back to running, and also discover a sense of purpose and greater confidence and connection in life. Claire is talking primarily about her experience of stroke here, but as you know, many of the emotions and difficulties that Claire faced are similar for any of us who are going through an experience that makes us feel inadequate and different to others. So join us on Claire's inspiring journey and consider what you can take away from her experience that can helpfully shift your thinking too. ABOUT OUR GUESTClaire Whitehouse is a Stroke Survivor and also a Support Coordinator for Dorset Stroke Association where she facilitates peer support groups and provides individual support for other stroke survivors and their carers. In 2010, 19-year-old Claire had two disabling strokes that transformed her life. She felt isolated by her wheelchair and existence. She became socially anxious, and lost her sense of worth and self-confidence. But, five years on, Claire became properly informed about the way that her mind was working and how this was impacting her mental health. She no longer felt it was her fault, but a case of self-management and understanding.With acceptance, Claire recreated herself through mindfulness, meditation, music, animal therapy, healthy living, and nature. Claire says “my disability showed me my true abilities” as she readapted and tried new hobbies like Stand-Up Paddle boarding. Each leap, mistake and failure reframed as lessons to build on her learning, confidence and wisdom.Now life is full of purpose while working for Stroke Association as a Dorset Coordinator supporting others in a similar place. Claire is proud of the person she has became. She tells us that, there may be  stumbling blocks on the road but with determination, encouragement, and self-belief, we can find a way through them. Claire no longer allows her disability to define her, because only you can define yourself. Claire also shares her story and inspirations through her ‘Hope for Stroke’ pages on Facebook and Instagram to help others who need reassurance and encouragement. [Stroke Association: www.stroke.org.uk Hope for Stroke: www.facebook.com/hopeforstroke2]Support the show