All of us have a story to share. We have overcome challenges, faced adversity, encountered tragedy, and come out the other side stronger and wiser. We get through those tough times by relying on others – and by gaining strength from others’ stories of resilience.

Your story has value. While sharing your story might not feel like a big deal, it holds tremendous power. You never know when your story could be the strand of hope that gets someone else through a dark time. 

It’s worth sharing your story. Here’s why. 

Reclaim Your Power

Traveling through adversity can break you down. Tough times can leave us feeling weak, both physically and emotionally. Sharing your story is one way to reclaim your power and regain your strength.

Nothing keeps us powerless like shame. When we hide our stories, they start to define us. But when we share our stories – when we name the challenges we have faced and admit our victory over them – we take back control. 

Shame thrives in darkness. Sharing our stories shines a light on our adversity and destroys that shame. 

You’re Not Alone

Think of the toughest times in your life. Chances are, you felt incredibly alone, even if you were surrounded by other people. When you’re in the thick of it, it’s easy to feel like no one else on earth understands. 

When you share your story, you connect with others traveling the same path. There is power in numbers. When you speak up, those starting their journey will know they’re not alone. They can see the light at the end of the tunnel – because you’re on the other side. 

Connecting with others will show you that you’re not alone, either. No matter how isolating your adversity feels, there is someone else who understands. Finding that community is incredibly empowering. There’s no need to suffer in silence. 

Raise Awareness

History is a teacher. We can all benefit from learning more about the issues that impact everyday lives. Sharing your story helps raise awareness about topics affecting our greater society. Whether you’re dealing with mental health issues, physical injuries, unhealthy relationships, abuse or violence, substance use issues, or any other challenge, your experience can help educate others.

For instance, one of our missions here at WodBottom is to raise awareness about domestic abuse. We share personal stories from survivors not only to help those survivors reclaim their power but to help raise awareness about domestic abuse among our readers.

The signs of abuse aren’t always obvious. In many cases, domestic abuse takes on many forms, sometimes evolving over months and years. Those living in abusive situations might not even recognize their relationships as abusive. But by writing about this issue and highlighting your personal stories, our goal is to help other women recognize the signs of abuse, prevent it where possible, and reach out if they are in unhealthy environments.

Your stories are incredibly powerful. Your voice is integral to raising awareness and helping others find understanding. 

How to Share

There is no right or wrong way to share your story. Your story belongs to you, so you can share as much or as little as you want. You also control where and how much to share.

In this technologically dependent society, there are plenty of ways to tell your story online. You might choose to share anonymously or proudly add your name to your tale. It’s entirely up to you.

Some ways to share online include:

• Blog posts or updates on social media accounts
• Public sources, like sharing your story with us at WodBottom. If you have a story to share, please contact us to learn more.  
• Posts on other websites, social media platforms, or via nonprofit organizations
• Live or pre-recorded videos

Sharing online can feel safer, but connecting face-to-face is incredibly powerful. Consider sharing your story in person if you have the opportunity to do so (but only if you’re comfortable and feel safe doing so). That personal connection has an immediate and profound impact.

Your story matters. There is power in numbers. Sharing your truth not only gives you back your power, but it can also help someone else find theirs. 

Do you have a story we should hear? Contact us or share it in the comments below.