Shara Smile, LLC Newsletter June 2025

Dear Shara Smile Community,

Can you believe that half of 2025 has passed us already? As you move into July, will youl be enjoying time at home with family and friends, soaking up the sunshine? The sunshine can greatly benefit our mental health! Will you be able to find time to read a book, listen to a favorite podcast, tackle that long-overdue cleaning project, or take a vacation? Having recently spent time with family and friends in June, I've been reflecting on the struggles of those who are hurting, the pain of loss, and the stress of navigating relationships with care and intention. It's a delicate balance to honor both our own feelings and those of our loved ones, all while striving to deepen those connections. During this time, let's reflect on how fortunate we are to enjoy so many types of freedoms. 

Beyond the broader freedoms we experience, we encourage you to consider the subtle freedoms within your relationships. Healthy relationships thrive when there's freedom to:

• Experience and express emotions: This means feeling safe to share your true feelings in healthy ways.
• Communicate challenges: Having the freedom to discuss difficulties in a relationship and work towards constructive solutions.
• Make amends: Having the freedom to ask for forgiveness and attempt change even when it may come with mistakes.

Consider the freedoms you extend to others in your relationships:

• Do you allow loved ones to own their feelings, even if those feelings aren't always positive about you or a situation?
• Do you create space for others to express differing opinions?
• Are you open to the need for change and new approaches as friendships or family dynamics evolve through different seasons of life?
• Are you able to express your needs in healthy ways?

As you and your family navigate July and reflect on the freedoms we have, we challenge you to also consider the freedoms you give and receive in your relationships. Are there areas where you can improve? Can you initiate conversations for positive change?

If you find yourself needing support in navigating these thoughts or strengthening your communication and relationships, please reach out. We are here to help you build a more fulfilling life through better communication and stronger connections.

Go out there and if you can, Share a SMILE!

Shara Carter

Shara Carter, LPC-MHSP, NCC