Better off alone

[@ryanpacker2709]

Laura! It’s not hormones, This is Burnout!! I hear this tone of your voice. It’s parent burnout. You have two kids, but soooo much more is trying to pull your attention. My wife and I call it “fractured thinking” you can’t even finish a though before something else demands your attention. it causes burnout soo fast. You have too much going on. I know you have all these things you love, but I would recommend cutting out at least one thing that pulls your attention. You need time to just exist. And yes, sleep.

[@chloewolf9201]

The ex is a toxic noose around her neck. He will never let her go.

[@kathylindberg1754]

7:04 Your like most really...we had other things to do. We just do.

[@kathylindberg1754]

Your right.😊

[@Gfysimpletons]

All junkies go through burnout!

[@Godisgreat-777]

Maybe you’re simply not ready for a relationship. When my son was young, I decided to stop being in a relationship, until he was grown and out of the house. I chose my son and I, over “dating”. It truly was the best decision for the both of us. I also know I set a great example on what not to tolerate and that I didn’t need anyone but God and my son. Sadly, many can’t be alone with themselves. I actually prefer my own company, rather than settling. lol. My son is 26 years old now and I am still single by choice. It really isn’t a bad thing. ❤

[@cheshirecatswiftie]

My daughter is 20, & I’m a single mom who made similar choices. No regrets on choosing to be single over settling, MANY years of enjoying my own company & learning to embrace the solitude. Wish it was more culturally & socially acceptable to remain single by choice for life if wanted. Thanks for sharing, sending love. ❤

[@shelbyrobson8130]

Awesome. Totally agree as I did the same for my son and I. Now at. Ugh gag. 59. My autistic son and I live with the most wonderful man. He stepped up from the start. My son going to be 28. Is thriving working and living a wonderful life life because if the choices I made and the standard I set. You go girl. Oh. And Laura. Just think of the children right now. The rest will fall into place in. Your higher powers time ♥️

[@shelbyrobson8130]

@@cheshirecatswiftie beautifully said sweetie ♥️

[@chloewolf9201]

@Godisgreat-777 best desicion ever. Wonderful

[@marceecollier2065]

So very true! ​@@shelbyrobson8130

[@catherinemiss6360]

I think having a break from any romantic relationship and enjoying your kids and space is really helpful. Personal experience

[@LeahBreHappy]

I stopped dating over a year ago and it was the best choice for me. I'm a single mom and just focus on myself and my kids. ❤❤❤

[@lillierose5304]

Same here. I'm so happy 🥰❤️

[@LeahBreHappy]

@@lillierose5304 ✨😍🤩yay!!

[@shyllalynch4754]

I've been single 5 years... It's honestly really hard to even think about having a man around at this point. Although I do want that father figure for my daughter (and another kid would be nice 😅) just the thought of dating freaks me out tho.

[@LeahBreHappy]

@@shyllalynch4754 I feel you, I've been feeling like it would be nice to have a man around to help me but I can always get a repair man or something. I am also very spiritual and think the universe will send me someone amazing when the time is right.

[@lillierose5304]

@@shyllalynch4754 step dads can be pretty awful once you have another kid with them. They favor their own kid over yours. I know some people say step dads can be great but more often then not the dynamic is crap for the step kids.

[@lndz3089]

I think the codependency with your ex is weighing heavily on you. It’s almost so heavy I can feel it. You deserve to pursue your passions and creativity without an abuser in your ear 24/7. I saw a very very ugly few clips of him on Instagram? He came unglued because u were collabing with someone else. Very scary how he reacted, I truly worry for you and the kids’ safety. Please be honest with friends and family as to what’s really going on, I just think you would be so much more present, happy, joyous and free without that boat anchor!!! No hate to him, he’s a very sick man tho….. you and the kids deserve peace and to be put first. I 100% believe the right guy is out there!!

[@amysettle85]

I agree with you 💯

[@shelbyrobson8130]

I do not agree with respectfully. I think they are both dealing with their situation as they see best. Yes you may see some really bad stuff with him (Stephen) but you do understand Laura isn’t an angel

[@jessiemay94-]

You write similar things about Steven on EVERY single video Laura posts we get it you don't like the guy but he's her kids father and seems a great father at that they are doing thier best i think Laura knows best what she and her children need .

[@dianecooper5770]

​He was live and videotaped P completely naked. Great father? Mmm debatable ​@jessiemay94-

[@moeszylak2779]

@@jessiemay94-The dude drives around stoned with them, doesn’t put seatbelts on them and loses them. But yeah, Dad of the year!

[@tlingitgirl07]

I just got out of a bad relationship and am reclaiming myself by doing all the things I've been meaning to do but spending my energy in a bad relationship. Have a relationship with yourself! Separate as much as you can from your past relationship. You got this.

[@shelbyrobson8130]

Great advice ♥️

[@xxxxOS]

I struggle in relationships too. Im 34 and im about to just say F it and get a puppy and just opt out. I dont trust any man and they all watch porn. I cant be with a porn user. It kills romance and my security in the relationship and all guys say they are happy to quit in the beginning but as soon as you dont perform like a porn star for them the porn stars start calling. Im sick of going through the same thing over and over. Ive learned that its totally okay to feel repulsed by your partner watching porn. But will i regret it at 50? I guess i can adopt or foster kids if i really feel like i need one. Western men & women are going through a crisis.

[@shelbyrobson8130]

Important point.

[@evap.5121]

Don't give up. Try interacting with a different type of group of ppl like in church etc. You don't even have to be Christian. Just think there are many types of cultures and people. Life offers endless possibilities. We put the limits on ourselves. You can even up and leave to a different town or a different country if you want.

[@tulipchic34]

Hun you will regret it more if you spend years with thee wrong man.

[@hannahg.8572]

I think you’re perceiving yourself as in competition with porn performers, which isn’t necessarily the case. In most cases, porn is primarily a masturbation tool. Masturbation is not in competition with sex with the partner. Of course it’s ok to feel repulsed by the thought of your partner looking at porn, but maybe the insecurity surrounding that is an issue? I was on the other end of that, I had an ex bf who was extremely jealous of me masturbating, with or without aid. For me, I learned that unless it’s a pathological issue (addiction or harming others), masturbation is part of your bodily autonomy and it feels violating for someone to monitor and control how you engage with yourself on your own time, so to speak. I know some guys are obsessed, think porn is reality, and set unrealistic, dumb expectations, but that’s not the norm, those are just idiots. Plenty of men out there who occasionally watch porn but prefer you any time, and don’t bring that nonsense into your private lives.

[@vikinggenie]

I like how your podcast is REAL. A lot of the ones I watch are interviews and are kind of uplifting and positive, but I like how you just tell how you feel. A lot of people can relate to you. It is not a faked podcast where we feel as the listener that you are just putting on a show.

[@LauraMarieClery]

❤️

[@Attabasca]

I've been divorced for 2 years, separated longer than that. I have a 10 and 15-year-old. I am SO okay with not dating right now. It feels right just focusing on me and them. I just tell myself when I'm ready to date, I'm ready. Whenever and if ever it happens, it's all good!

[@shelbyrobson8130]

Yup! You’ve got this 👍🏼

[@DoctorJoanieTool]

You mentioned to your mom on the phone last podcast that you aren’t even completely done with your divorce. I don’t think you need to be alone forever. But I do think you need to resolve your long marriage. And then spend a year or more just learning to love and care for yourself. That’s not forever at all. But jumping from one very important relationship that is ongoing, into another relationship probably was destined to be a repeat and a trigger. It will take time. And little kids take up a whole lot of time and energy. These years are so important for their learning and their bond formation etc. maybe focus on you, on coparenting, on your beautiful kids, on your parents who are going through a really tough situation right now. I think that might help growing you. You are a seeker and learner. It will be OK. It WILL. But it will take time and healing - and only you can do that. Sending peace and love.

[@lorikegler5587]

I learned “I GET to…” in program. It helps me stay in gratitude instead of self pity and resentment. It’s lovely.

[@chasitybridgesmayes]

I feel like you should sit down and film a podcast with Bunnie XO so you can trauma dump and talk it out to make you feel better. I love you, Laura, not in a creepy way, but in a general way. You're doing the best you can, and you are enough ❤

[@faeryegrrl777]

Yes @BunnieXO

[@Emcatastrophe]

Yeah girl, you don’t need to be in a relationship right now. You should be alone for a while so you don’t have to constantly be consumed by your partner. I am the same way - codependent AF and it sucks. No matter how much work you do in therapy, once you are in a romantic relationship, that codependency aspect of your personality rises to the top, and you have to constantly fight it and it’s exhausting and it’s so hard. It’s constant and consuming, and the only way to avoid it is to not allow that type of relationship. At least until you are in a better, stronger, more stable place.

[@Wifeyfolifey]

My advice as a former caregiver would be to live in the moment with your dad. If he is telling you a story, just go with it. Try not to fight or argue the incorrect bits of information, within reason/as much as possible. Lastly, music is a powerful tool. Listen to what he likes, no words needed - just vibes ❤

[@LauraMarieClery]

Wow thank you.

[@Trysaratop]

I needed this advice honestly thank you too.

[@trillion42]

My two cents - you need to focus on your mental health and your kids right now, not another relationship. You need to work on you right now and being comfortable on your own and in your own skin and clarifying who you really are and what you really want first before getting into another relationship.

[@theresamontgomery6708]

Me thing that I think helped me is to say to myself, whatever happens. I know I'll be okay. I was okay before and I'll be okay after. Speak to yourself in away you'd want someone to speak to your daughter. Be kind

[@shelbyrobson8130]

@@theresamontgomery6708 oh oh. That’s so good!!

[@tamalamaland]

My children are adults now and I've chosen to be single for the last four years. Best. Life decision. Ever. I get to focus on me, casually date for fun when and if I feel like it, without the power struggles and compromises. I became exhausted too Laura, because it's actually too much work.

[@teslacumba]

Girl...I spent my life going from one toxic relationship to the next.. I am 50 now, single for the first time & LOVING it... I finally am putting myself first. My relationship with my (grown) kids is better than ever and I'm invested in my grandkids lives. Took 50 years but better than never. One thing though...with the right person the relationship will be easy 💕

[@tulipchic34]

I recently turned 50 too and single. 2 older kids 16 and 20. Life is peaceful.

[@BookReviewsWithBecky]

If you haven't, please read the book, Women Who Love Too Much by Robin Norwood! Every woman should read this!!! It is life changing!!

[@honorsilverthorne7227]

I have experienced all the self-critizisms and vulnerabilities you are describing. I had to learn to cut myself more breaks than I was. I don't think I was exactly built for romantic relationships either; in fact I have been happier being alone and spending time with friends, pets, and my kid for several years now. I know the partners' expectations of me were not something I could meet, and when I was younger I was fuzzy about my expectations of them. Sad, but lessons were learned. Then I got older and my physical appearance rendered me invisible to about 95% of men, which was honestly a relief because most of them didn't know how to take no for an answer, or how to respect boundaries, just a few short years ago. I like walking around looking more like a nondescript human. 😊 It causes people who are looking for anything other than friendship to simply rule themselves out; and friendship would be all I could give them anyway. I very much agree with your point about giving to others; I do that & am glad you do 💕, and it always gets my focus outside myself. Thank you for your usual candidness and bravery, in being so real and relatable. I do not believe that you have to ALWAYS be funny. You're not a trained monkey. 😂 Oh; and I came back here to edit this reply to your questions with one more thing: You don't have to sacrifice your sleep to the extent that you do. You are allowed to protect your own sleep by setting better boundaries with Alfie at night; it doesn't make you a bad mom in any way, shape or form to do so, either; in fact it might make you a better mom in the long run.

[@sarahjane8949]

Another 2/3 years and life will be different as your kids are still very young “ hang in there “ 💜

[@bluecatjay5229]

I think any parent that says They are a prefect parent is questionable! You need to teach your children what a strong independent women is! And that includes role modelling how to deal with emotions and you learning to love yourself. Not enough children have role models in their life to show them how to love themselves! To many people rely on others to make them happy! You have the power to role model incredible women! Some days you won’t feel like it! When a man is making it difficult push more boundaries on them ! PLZ PLZ please remember when you look into your daughters eyes that she’s learning from you what a healthy relationship with your self is! And with your son surround him with a tribe of strong women! 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@gabriellesherman8115]

I loved this. Thank you for being so honest and open.

[@ashlietobey170]

Laura, you are my fave person ever. And remember, it's okay to not be okay. ❤

[@jillcullen7909]

This was sort of just what I needed to hear today. I’m sorry you’re feeling off, but your words and thoughts did help me. 😊

[@MM-zs7rp]

I’m in your situation very closely and haven’t had sex or anything in four years. It’s surprisingly nice. My autistic daughter and her adhd twin (4yo) take up so much of my mind and heart the thought of having anything left over for another adult is laughable ❤

[@shelbyrobson8130]

Omg!! Totally agree my 28 yr old autistic son still with me. We’re both thriving ♥️

[@alexf2231]

You're a good mom, sometimes we all feel we fall short. I was codependent as well at one point and all of a sudden I snapped out of it. It doesn't always work that way. But, I realized those relationships weren't fulfilling me because I wasn't personally fulfilled. It's hard to be funny when life isn't always funny. I still like your skits and think you're funny!

[@jessicaedlin2482]

Thank you so much for letting me see things differently from I have to do something to I get to. I’m really going to try that.

[@shannon_886]

So relatable (and healing). Thank you

[@JudyMcLaughlin-i2p]

I fully agree with what you are going through. I am the same way. I'm not good at relationships. I'm 56 years old and relationships have never been good for me. This is why I am single and own a vibrator. It's easier than dealing with let downs. Thank you for this podcast. You helped me, see the real me.

[@melissamackenzie973]

You don’t need to date! Just exist and be a mother and a sister and an aunt and a friend, that’s plenty to keep you fulfilled and busy.

[@robinconquest7074]

I'm doing the solo thing myself for the same reason. It's more peaceful and less stress by myself. I've learned to be happy with myself and not needing one else to do it for me. Love yourself FIRST !!!!!!! After that it all falls in place 😊👌

[@chasitybridgesmayes]

Also, I can't wait to read your books! I will be purchasing all of them, including the children's book for my kiddos!

[@hayleyflanagan2545]

You wont have a happy relationship while you & Steven are still so co dependant. X

[@Bootsz2010]

🤗🌻 Sounds like you're a working single mom, we all have issues, you're not alone! And you're very successful with two book deals. In a way that's unrelatable to probably all of us. Still wish you all the best.

[@kejbi8061]

It's beautiful how honest you were. I would hug you. It's hard when kids are small and their father is gone. I understand your feelings. But it's always better to be alone with kids than in a bad relationship. Try to sleep more, take some vitamins and minerals, have a relaxing bath, listen to positive podcasts ... You are enough. Don't talk low with you.

[@dragonaries5251]

If its exhausting, he isnt the good one for you, and yes kids take time, do whats good for you..

[@ST-rj8iu]

The difference between an argument versus a discussion is that you don't have an objective. If there is no objective you are trying to achieve, then maybe let it go. All you can do is ask for what you want. If the person cannot give you what you asked for, decide if your expectations are unrealistic. If not, then maybe you are in the wrong relationship.

[@jenniferaker9838]

You are amazing, and amazing woman and an amazing mother and do not sell yourself so short regarding relationships! Relationships aren't easy and can be exhausting, just as raising children. I'm widowed and have 5 kids, two of them are under age 18, and my first relationship after the death of my late husband lasted a year until the guy ghosted me, that destroyed me and I felt the same as you that perhaps there was something wrong with me or I don't deserve love. YOU do deserve love and need to continue telling yourself this, you deserve to be happy! I'm in a new relationship and have been for a year and a half now, and he is great and amazing (and younger, haha) and has the patience needed for dating a widow with children. We all deserve love and happiness, don't ever give up on that!

[@mandyb8144]

Don't feel bad for this episode not being super funny. It sounded like this is what you needed & this helped you process & reset your mindset a bit. Also, most of what ppl talk about in therapy is about relationships. Theyres nothing wrong w/ you that that's what yours seems to be about right now. You've obviously got a lot of things to work out. Only be single if that what you want. Not if you think you don't deserve to be. You are worthy. If its meant to be w/ this guy, he'll stick around while you heal & grow. If not, you'll still learn something from it. Take care, Laura! ❤

[@niabhinghy]

I'm three years celibate because my trauma attracted not healthy relationships into my life and rather than do the same thing over again I thought Id better stop dating until I was healthy enough to attract something better. x

[@hannahg.8572]

The same thing happened to me too. After two truly horrible relationships I remained single by choice for over a year and a half. I was still having sex though, not just because I wanted to, but also because in my two bad relationships, I had become emotionally overattached due to trauma, so in a way, seeing people more casually helped me practice not getting unhealthily attached and learning I didn’t have to put up with BS, I could just leave. It worked pretty well for me, because I was determined I wasn’t ready to settle. After I felt ready, I met my now long-term partner through friends. I joke I was lucky, that it works because I didn’t completely choose him myself, but that he was pre-vetted by our friends and we happened to click after all.

[@inhumalien]

Alotttt of us don’t know what a healthy relationship is and it’s beautiful that we GET to find out along the way. Imagine if you never got the opportunity to FIND OUT what something good for you looks like. Like waking up Christmas morning 🥰🥰

[@inhumalien]

Kind of like if we don’t experience bad how can we experience good

[@AngieAccetturo]

Laura I closed my FB page. It was unhealthy for me! But I want to be connected with you outside of FB . I can relate to your son very well. And love to watch him flourish ! You always made my days Laura ! Thank you for all those days

[@SilentQueenMommy5_HOG]

oh I understand so much ❤❤ your amazing remember that 🎉🎉 I feel so overwhelmed with everything .. Especially the stupid flights....

[@nancyrapose4579]

Don't give up, there's no guarantees in life. You don't have to give up happiness, the guy you pick might not be perfect but no one is, if he loves you for who you are, that's one of the best parts, you will know no rush just live. Your great about giving advice what would you say to someone in your shoes. You always have honest and great advice Laura.☺️

[@goodgirlanddad]

You have no Idea of all the happiness that is waiting for you!! It gets better! I've been through something very similar to what you are going through. I hated the phase you are currently in. Now my life is so much more peaceful and nice. There are new people in my life I didn't know I was gonna meet. My carreer is completely different. I have a codepent but happy and healthy relationship. Yes it is possible. A therapist told me maybe I didn't need to fix myself just find someone who Can meet my special needs. So I'm still crazy but I'm loved and all my needs are met so I don't hate my crazy. It doesn't make me suffer.

[@AmandaDaley93]

I’m right there with you Laura.❤😢

[@Wendy-oj7cb]

Give yourself some time. After I had a relationship that turned horrible in the end, I went on to date and expected the same from everyone else. It took time, but after finding a truly great person, I started to come around and let go of those old expectations and I allowed him to surprise me and show me what a good partner is. We’re about to celebrate our 30th anniversary!

[@shelbyrobson8130]

@@Wendy-oj7cb yes sweetie awesome. I’m doing the same. I 59 and finally living my true self ♥️

[@Sheunapolegeticallyspeaks]

Beautiful lady, You need to give yourself a big ass heaping cup of GRACE. Not one mother is a perfect mother. Not one wife is a perfect wife. No husband will be a perfect husband and meet all of our needs. We all do our best. Whomever you choose as a romantic partner should complement your life not complete it. The whole “you complete me“, although some may truly feel that way, I think is an unhealthy way to live. Honestly, if that person that completes you passes away, are you now incomplete? I spent 22 years with the father of my children and the person I thought was the love of my life to be told on our way out to dinner that he wasn’t in love with me anymore. Of course, losing my appetite and going straight home and not to the restaurant, he packed his bags and left. I let him go. It hurt, but I know I deserve better than that. Of course, like all men do, he came begging back. I said no. Come to find out he is now romantically involved with men. That was a slap in the face. Your relationship only recently ended. Be kind to yourself. Continue learning about who you are and what you need, but you don’t have to analyze every single thing you do. Just do what you do & do it with integrity. Most of us out here think you’re pretty damn cool.

[@jessicalynn4063]

So crazy that they are 5 and 3 now! Time flew. 😮

[@ThisFatFunnyLife]

My husband and I sound like your sister and her husband in Oregon. (I am a former Oregonian though haha) We solve our issues by recognizing when we get triggered and what we need in those moments. Sometimes I need space, especially when I’m upset and not ready to talk. Everyone is different. Sometimes we are like whoa we’ve been together a year and a half and still discover a new trigger. It’s how do we recover and deal with them together. I agree that relationships are about supplements.

[@PurpleYoda77]

My grandma had dementia and it was a rude adjustment for her and I. But I finally came to a realization that she was living her best life because all the shitty things (people , family, work) she endured she couldn't remember and every day was a brand new day for her. I consider it God's gift to her on the way out. I miss her every day🥲

[@marlalousinger8700]

Youre killin it and everyday is a new day. Let it out its healthy to talk things through. 😘

[@jessiekeesee2615]

First of all I LOVE YOU LAURA would recommend the kids sleeping in their own beds so you can get sleep! You guys can still cuddle before bed and during the day. I promise it’s what’s best for them too, it creates healthy habits and they sleep better too they won’t get up in the middle of the night to come to your room once they know it’s not aloud any more. If you need help watch supernanny. I also agree with a comment above, I think you want a good co parenting relationship with Stephen but toxic is toxic and it’s stressing you out. It’s super normal to feel how you do about your relationship. I relate to you SO much after getting out of a 7 year relationship it was all I’ve known! You are an inspiration

[@lesliewolfe7643]

It's hard to have a new relationship when your ex husband is glued to your hip.

[@kelseymaemae]

when i cants sleep at night i tell my inner thoughts to shush and its ok to sleep and it really does help a lot. everything is ok.. its ok to sleep. sometimes it is that simple

[@BunnyCJsparkles]

I absolutely relate to this! Except I don't even really get to the relationship stage. But when I have, I have never felt that feeling of being in a happy couple, I don't think it'll ever happen for me. It's hard to balance between thinking of just giving up and continuing to try. I also think we get told too often that we don't need relationships. We shouldn't be shamed for wanting them, it's natural and normal.

[@giabella111]

Thank you for your "clerity" Laura! Excited to read your books!

[@unboxuniverse5483]

How you think u can have a relationship when your so dependent on stephen I don't know.. Not fair on partner...also don't let stephen twist it so you split up..its not healthy

[@honorsilverthorne7227]

🤔 🤔 🤔

[@susie_q1]

Laura, I see you continue to walk on eggshells still around Stephen. Too much contact with him. Get yourself a nanny, lay down visitation schedule and stick with it. Most courts think once a week out for dinner without you, just the kiddos and every other weekend the kiddos spend at daddy’s place. I personally would never leave the kiddos alone with him ever. god knows what he does with them and verbally, how he speaks around them when you aren’t there. Also, end your working with him, in business. That is also not healthy. You can fly and succeed all on your own. I really hope you aren’t taking your life with S.H. out onto your boyfriend. It seems like he threatens you and throws you off balance consistently. If you haven’t figured this out yet, he is an abuser and master manipulator. He is all about controlling you. Plus an out an out liar and a danger to himself and others around him. I watch a few videos of his ex-girlfriends of late and he just abused and used them too. Just hoping you find your strength, your desires, your loving friends and places et al. w/out any more of Stephen, Stephen, Stephen. For some reason, he always has you where he wants you. He also has been seeing many young girls probably even before his attempted offing himself. He is not well at all. You must come into your own. You are not responsible in making him to be a decent human being. He is not capable and hasn’t been for years now, maybe in your entire marriage.

[@susie_q1]

She is somehow hooked on sicko S.H. I have seen a few of his recent ex girlfriends videos who couldn’t stand his lying, cheating, smelly being. And this trying to get money from them or their family. He is an out and out user and abuser and a sex addict. I have thought all along he prefers gay men. To throw these girls up in Laura’s face is very disturbing. The good news is they all seem to disdain his sorry arse.

[@tulipchic34]

It’s hard to give time to a man when you have children s career and household to run. If the man is not making things easier then it’s not worth it. I was seeing a guy for 2 years and I found myself not feeling happy. I was spending time dating him and putting other things aside. I decided I wanted to be myself and focus on my family and friends.

[@nikistevenson1550]

👏👏👏👏💯

[@tamaraharrison3827]

Love you! Your amazing, inspirational and f*n funny!!

[@ashpointe3350]

Laura, Its okay to feel your feelings. Some things just suck! And its okay to accept that. We can be grateful for the things we have and our loved ones, but sometimes its also good to accept the bad so we can fix it. If you know what to do but you're not ready yet, its okay to be afraid. You're not selfish for this. You're a human woman. With all that said, dont listen to me or anyone else. Trust your intuition. -Laura Ashley Lapointe

[@LozzieMac10]

Single or in a relationship Laura you’re doing great. We all struggle with relationships.. no one’s perfect and if they’re in a good stage it takes some work to get there. Your sisters life sounds wonderful but I’m sure even they have disagreements. Not sure.. maybe a bit of a break from it all would be good for you. ❤

[@Jeannie3Wishes]

We love you Laura ❤❤❤

[@The_Real_HeatherMarie]

Just sending my love, Laura. ❤❤

[@azeetrona]

I remember you saying, ‘One day at a time’. I take that advice to heart.

[@Online_Biz_Mom]

I am so happy you talked about this because I feel this so much and I would wonder if I was alone feeling this.. Ever since I was beat and almost killed by a past relationship I have always thought anyone I even feel a little for i just instantly think they could kill me too.. they could punch me in the face too.. they could hit me with their car too.. I get scared so I back away from every single one. Then being a mom to an autistic 9 year old son I worry about dating and if they would beat him.. i just can't... it just hovers over me.. so I've been single for 10 years and i just feel like maybe I'm better alone too So at least if we are all alone, then we are at least all together in that ❤

[@ehikasworld]

You r really amazing, I just love watching you 💕

[@ajhwood1961]

I had to walk away from the man I loved dearly 11 years ago due to his alcoholism. He was in AA when I met him and he was sober the first 6 years we were married. I stayed 7 more years through active alcoholism trying to live him back to health. Leaving him was one of the saddest days of my life. He died of alcohol poisoning 3 years ago. I’m now 62 and I did a man a couple of years ago but my heart just wasn’t in it and I too, attract some of the most sickest, neediest men. These last 11 years have been a healing journey that for me, meant I needed to stay away from relationships. Now that I’m in my 60’s it doesn’t bother me at all and I’m perfectly fine being alone.

[@BillyDeeWright]

That supplement needs to be magnesium glycinate. It promotes relaxation and while it is not a hallucinogenic or a drug, most people experience vivid dreams.

[@candasseysumrall480]

One of the best loves I have had was not reciprocated. It showed me that I could love someone fully for who they are without expecting anything back from them fully. I respected his boundaries, of course but I didn’t push aside my feelings he was in another relationship after I had had a crush on him and I wasn’t jealous at all and I even supported him in it. I just wanted him to be happy but it showed me that I could love this then once it is reciprocated, it’s going to be the most amazing love. Trust your gut, there’s a lot of people out there that don’t know how to love.

[@lynnbeardmore7171]

I know just how you feel Laura….. thinking of you ❤️

[@mistygodoy4755]

OMG this is exactly what i am living in this moment!! Like do i give up and buy 100 cats and just throw in the towel. How am i supposed to know what real looks like after being married to a narcissist for 25 years and fake love bombed. I feel like nothing is ever going to feel right because i only know wrong.

[@jennamartin4098]

Thinking of you, Laura ❤

[@BarlowJacob]

Thanks for this

[@amandadavis8855]

❤ Laura I feel like you do and I'm also feeling, like most of the women in this thread, that it's my me time now, to reel back in all the parts of me that I have scattered around. You can't give more than you have 💞

[@lisacunningham5475]

The only way through it is to find something to smile through it and laugh deeply through it. The trick of life is to be happy, and when you’re smiling and laughing for REAL, then you’ve found the secret to life. I am practicing not allowing my sorrow and pain swallow me whole, so I’m practicing on smiling and laughing w a deep belly laugh laughter. Maybe we can both practice the secret to life? Being happy!?

[@OctoganicAngel]

Have you ever thought about one of those therapeutic Psilocybin retreats? Something like that might help you break out of these self loathing patterns of thinking. You are so not alone in how you feel ❤

[@deniseabela2409]

I don’t think you’re ready. You’ll know when you are. A relationship doesn’t equal happiness ❤

[@Just_Jenny85]

5:33 I go through this daily. I’ve been married three times. I’m married to my third still, for 7 years now. My parents split when i was 22, my dad just decided he wanted a different life. It was so hard. My husband at that time cheated on me also, while my parents were going through their divorce I was going through a custody battle. I have abandonment issues, I’m so afraid everyone is going to leave me behind again. I totally understand how you feel. It’s really hard for my husband and he makes me feel like I’m hard to love. But life is life. I’m alive, I get to be a mother.

[@Just_Jenny85]

8:32 girl it’s crazy how you are saying what I feel. I was meant to watch this today ❤ I hope everything feels better now. I know this is a month old now, but you’re a wonderful mother, and you were a wonderful wife, you are deserving of real true love! ❤️ You are amazing, beautiful and most importantly STRONG 💪🏼 much love to ya Laura

[@boomerabilia]

I was married for 46 years to a man who couldn't stop lying... About the silliest, most mundane thing and I had a terrible temper it just drove me nuts. 46 years of being driven nuts... And our kids were grown by the late '90s. At least they were out of the house so there was no excuse to hang around and I wanted to leave for so many years because I knew it was unhealthy. There was no communication. Nothing. This person just did whatever they wanted. Regardless of my opinion or what I said, he had no goals. He had no dreams. He had nothing. He lived through me and that gets exhausting. Now I should have left when my kids were little and it would have been more peaceful for them because they had to listen to our fights. It was horrible... So what's my point? My husband died 5 years ago. A few years before that I divorced him because he had gotten involved in a Nigerian Lottery scam and lost every bit of money. My kids didn't want them. I didn't want them but he ended up staying with me... We could barely keep our head above water because he was so sick with all his illnesses that he couldn't work anymore... Mind you I'm in my late '60s at the time... Ever since he passed away and ironically he passed away 5 years ago. On the 4th we were up in a mountain area just hanging out for the 4th of July and he died suddenly in my car... I had never lived alone in my life... From parents, to friends to marriage, I'd always had someone around... At 72 years old I still have to work to survive and I'm a teacher for special needs kids or I was this year I GET to do music... I don't know how much longer I can work. However, the peacefulness of my life because I don't have any friends, Is enormous... I'm making all the decisions, I'm making all the money... I'm not even half as talented and have all these creative outlets that you do. Laura... Take care of your kids. They'll be grown before you know it... Who cares about men? There aren't any choices for me now that's for sure. Old men, old women... You have so much talent. Enjoy your life with your kids and I know Steven is involved too so you got that with the kids...

[@susie_q1]

She does not need him. Just normal court ordered visitation schedules. Nothing more. And she really needs to put cameras up in her home while he watches to kids. I mean cameras wherever the kids are with him. And sound for sure in knowing what he really says to them.

[@lindagoytil4160]

I was a caregiver for my Dad who had dementia and Parkinson's. He lived with me for 2 1/2 years until the hospital gave him sepsis and died at 92. I have now learned that Lipator can have a dementia side effect. I wish I knew this years ago. The doctors had him on so many meds. Please look into that.

[@sunshinestate8884]

I think you need to be confident and love yourself before you can have a good relationship. I’m married, but I love my alone time and I know that if something were to happen with our marriage I would be fine. I don’t fear being alone and don’t need a man for anything, I would be perfectly content. I think you need to get to that place where you can taken them or leave them. You need to know who Laura is, what is she about? What does she like and not like? You need to love yourself.

[@stephanieburgess8217]

My guess is you got married or into a committed relationship young and so you’ve not lived more than half your life single and alone. There is a difference between alone and lonely.

[@sunshinestate8884]

@@stephanieburgess8217 actually I didn’t get married until I was 40. And I’ve spent a lot of time being single, which is the best thing I did. I learned about myself, who I am.

[@emmawheeler8559]

Can’t wait to see your book! ❤❤❤❤

[@LeahBreHappy]

You're never alone ❤❤❤❤ Love you

[@Yepitsme22]

Sublingual vitamin B12 drops berry flavor it's the best. That's the only way I survive on little to no sleep

[@brianna.pichardo]

I love you! So excited for the children’s book! 💜💜

[@kpickxx1]

SO RELATABLE. I’m the exact same way. Something I hold onto tho. Is.. I was told. You don’t sit and wonder whether or not you’ll be hurt or not. But not with AA, God , my sponsor and my fellowship. I have the tools to survive it. I don’t have to crumble anymore.

[@sabrinavanart5948]

It’s true how we all struggle - mine is taking care of the house and honestly stuff . I can’t deal sometimes cause maybe relationships and my work and art are more important . But then I fail 😢

[@lorikegler5587]

There’s no such thing as a perfect mom. You’re doing the best that you can. That is good enough. Your children are healthy and happy, and very bonded to you. Have you considered alanon? I am a double winner, both AA, and alanon. AA helps me stay sober. Alanon helps me with relationships, and has helped me feel better about myself. You’re doing the best you can, and that is good enough. Love you.

[@Alisha_was_here]

I honestly think just focus on being mom and yourself and peace is a good idea. You are in the thick of parenting !

[@TersiaLee]

I have severe horrific graphic night terrors mixed with parasomnia where I sleep walk, sleep talk and act out what's happening in my night terrors and believe they are real because, to me, they are very real.. I also have severe sleep apnea and fully stop breathing around 51 times every hour.. So all of this makes me feel like I've ran a marathon in my sleep and makes me so severely sleep deprived that I start hallucinating during the day.. FML

[@hwoods-kg1jf]

I can totally relate. I also have sleep apnea (have slept with a CPAP machine for the past 6 years! I will say, after you get used to wearing the mask, cleaning the tubing, mask and machine, buying the distilled water to fill the humidifier, making sure the filters are always changed, it's not so bad.) But I also get HORRIFIC AWFUL GRAPHIC NIGHT TERRORS TOO! I had some yesterday while I was napping and then when I went to bed last night I had a "continuation" of the same dream I had earlier which was even spookier! If you have sleep apnea and aren't using a CPAP, I highly recommend getting a sleep study done and getting a CPAP machine. You are no longer waking up gasping for air or struggling to breathe. While my quality of sleep isn't perfect, it's definitely better than what it was before I got my CPAP machine. Also, Ambien extended release is a life saver at helping me fall asleep and stay asleep but that is getting a bit harder for me now that I'm starting to go through perimenopause. Oh and Xanax IS A GOD DAMN LIFE SAVER! WITHOUT IT I WOULD EXPLODE AT EVERYBODY AND EVERYTHING! I also have CPTSD and it can be debilitating at times. Wishing you good dreams and sleep!

[@bluecatjay5229]

Another thing is How do you become truly authentic with one’s self when your job is social media/ influencer??? I think that mental battle and pressure of perfectionist with beauty standards. The battle of trying to keep a connection with fans and having time to please everyone. I see a lot influences even those on KZbin doing all sorts of different videos battling with the deep since of the tie not doing enough and highly critical on themselves. I hear them trying justify themselves and talking about how they promise they do more to please every request fans as them. I’m seeing a pattern Nothing is ever enough!

[@shellydaybutch2230]

Hormonale and lack of sleep will play on your mentality.

[@kristinawilliamson4353]

Wanted to comment for dementia. My dad had dementia and one thing that helped my mom towards the last few years of his life was keeping a log of everything like doctors appointments, eating, toileting and the such. Just remember to live in the moment with him when the memories start to really go.

[@kourtneyswholesomelife]

I’m convinced that we are all the same person. All I want is to eat good food, do yoga, and spend time with my kid as well. 😅

[@LauraMarieClery]

How can we make this happen

[@witch-at-home]

About dementia- I spent my teen years caring for my grandmother (who was a second mother to me) with dementia. The best I can give is know it’s ok to be frustrated with them internally sometimes and it doesn’t make you bad- but also understand that they genuinely believe what they are saying. It’s less like brain fog and forgetfulness and more akin to psychosis in that, they haven’t just forgotten, whatever they’re saying is genuinely the world they live in. So just be in the moment with them. They’re laughing at nothing? Looks like you’re laughing at nothing. They think they’ve eaten but they haven’t? Ok sure you’ve eaten but how about you sample this dish that I made and see what you think. You gotta play along where best you can because they don’t have the means to process like we do. Also, be kind to yourself and make sure your mum gets breaks to look after herself and has people to talk to. It’s really hard, love to anyone affected x

[@FeistyFronds]

I still can’t sleep and my kids are older. It’s a real problem. I think my brain is desiring peace and alone time from over stimulation. That and stress keeps me up and my brain is on fight or flight ❤ I feel I’m failing at everything. I’m struggling. Including romantic relationships. You are not alone. You are not crazy. It’s the fast paced world and demands needed to get by these days. I wish I had an answer for you. You have us (sorry it’s the good and the bad).

[@rachelkrumpelman5131]

Maybe, just affirm that you want to learn to love yourself right now and that you want to do that without a "supplement " (I loved that morsel of wisdom from your therapist, btw) right now.

[@Trysaratop]

Sorry you are going through this I know I’m 3 months late. My mother passed from Alzheimer’s and I was 20 I felt like a child still and didn’t understand what was going on. Her best friend tricked her into PA and said she was taking care of her but she forgot to eat and drink water and had the worse death imaginable and I had no clue what was going on and her “friend” took all our belongings and our house leaving me homeless after she passed which through me a downward spiral of alcohol but today I have a 5 year old son with ADHD and a 3 year old son and I provided a house and work from home now, I have 0 help and life has been depressing I still get depressed today and can’t seem to manage adult hood some days but all we can do is keep pushing through.