Day 42 of 100 Days of Hope
The Healing Power of Expressing How You Feel
I find so much hope in expressing how I feel—and in letting others know in ways that feel authentic and true to me.
So often, when we get our feelings hurt, we instinctively withdraw, withhold, or project. It’s our way of protecting ourselves from pain. But these reactions only keep the negative cycle going. Real connection and healing happen when we open up and express what’s really going on inside—especially in our most sacred relationships.
As a life and relationship coach, I’ve seen how powerful honest communication can be. It opens the door to understanding, compassion, and closeness. It allows love to flow freely again.
Here are three ways that make expressing your feelings easier and more healing:
1. See the Other Person as Your Ally
When I remind myself that my partner is on my side, everything softens. Seeing each other as teammates shifts the energy completely. Suddenly, we’re not opponents—we’re partners facing a challenge together.
When you choose to see your partner as your ally, it builds trust and safety. You move from defense to curiosity, and from distance to connection.
2. Be Willing to Be Vulnerable
Vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s courage in motion.
When we share openly and allow ourselves to be seen, compassion and understanding rise naturally. Vulnerability bridges the gap between two hearts. It helps both people feel seen, valued, and loved.
In my own life and coaching, I’ve witnessed how vulnerability transforms fear into closeness and misunderstanding into intimacy. When you share from your heart, you create space for your partner to do the same.
3. Appreciate Them for Listening
A simple “Thank you for listening” can heal more than you might imagine.
Appreciation is connection fuel—it lets the other person know that their attention matters. When we acknowledge our partner’s willingness to listen, it strengthens the bond and makes communication easier next time. Gratitude always builds bridges.
Why Expression Brings Hope
It’s not always easy to speak up. There have been times I’ve held back, hoping things would pass. But unspoken feelings tend to fester and grow heavier.
When you express what’s true for you, it’s like clearing a clog in the heart—suddenly the energy moves again. You feel lighter, freer, and more open.
Remember, the upsets themselves aren’t the real problem—it’s how we handle them. Choosing to express instead of suppress allows everyone to be understood in new ways. That’s how healing happens. That’s how hope returns.
A Loving Invitation
What would you like to express today?
Is there something you’ve been holding back that might actually bring you closer if you shared it with love?
Take a deep breath. Trust that your voice matters. Speaking your truth is a sacred act of hope.
Here is a short video to hear more.
With love and light,
Julie Burningham
The Hope Coach ✨