What if fitting in isn’t the key to real connection? David has always used alcohol to handle stress and social anxiety but hides it from friends who see him as a “non-drinker.” As an introvert, he worries that not drinking at social events will make him seem like a “party pooper.” Stephanie is known for being fun and agreeable but often changes how she acts to meet others’ expectations. Growing up, she lacked a safe space to be herself, and as an adult, she is afraid of truly opening up. In this episode, David and Stephanie learn to build confidence and embrace their true selves. Coach Cole helps David set boundaries to navigate social events, while Coach Hayley guides Stephanie in healing her inner child, embracing vulnerability, and rebuilding self-worth. In David’s session: - Using alcohol to ease stress and boost confidence - Realizing alcohol numbs both stress and joy - Hiding his drinking habit from friends - Managing social anxiety without alcohol - Fearing being seen as a "party pooper" - Building confidence as an introvert - Setting boundaries in social settings - Choosing curiosity over self-judgment - Embracing real, authentic connections In Stephanie’s session: - Struggling with feelings of not being enough - How childhood experiences shaped her beliefs - Adapting to others’ expectations to feel accepted - Feeling uncomfortable with being her true self - Using alcohol to fit in and appear fun at work - Balancing authenticity with social expectations - Confronting her fear of vulnerability - Healing her inner child through self-love - Building self-worth beyond external approval - Learning to be kind to her future self Cole Harvey is a certified Naked Mind Senior Coach. For years, he felt lost and used alcohol as a way to cope, until he decided to go alcohol-free and focus on finding his purpose. Through curiosity, self-compassion, and adventure, he transformed his life. As a habit change and mindset coach, Cole helps young men understand themselves, build better habits, and find meaning. Learn more about Coach Cole: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/cole-harvey/  Hayley Scherders is a certified Naked Mind Coach with training from the Canadian Addiction and Mental Health Association. Drawing from personal experiences, Hayley understands how tough change can be and provides a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free space where her clients can feel supported. She believes that with the right mindset, anyone can change their life at any time. Learn more about Coach Hayley: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/hayley-scherders/  Related Episodes: EP 342: Reader Question – Is Life Boring Without Wlcohol? https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-342-reader-question-is-life-boring-without-alcohol/  EP 591: Naked Life Story – Thomas M. https://thisnakedmind.com/ep-591-naked-life-story-thomas-m/  EP 735: Find the Courage to Choose Yourself: Patrick’s Naked Life https://thisnakedmind.com/find-the-courage-to-choose-yourself-patricks-naked-life-e735/  Ready to take the next step on your journey?  Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious!