**Podcast Show Notes: CHANGE YOURSELF, NOT YOUR SURROUNDINGS: Finding the Strength to Handle Life**

**Episode Number:** 2

**Podcast Title:** *One Happy Widow Podcast*

**Host:** Leo

**Release Date:** 8-13-23

**Podcast Description:**
Hey there, it's Leo from the *One Happy Widow* podcast. I've got something I've been thinking about and I wanted to share it with you all. In this episode, I'll be diving into the idea of finding the strength to navigate life's challenges. I'll be drawing from my own experiences and personal journey, discussing why it's crucial to work on ourselves rather than trying to change the world around us. Join me as we explore the power of inner strength and how it can help us handle the toughest of situations.

**Listen to the Episode:** [YouTube Link](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vzE2MdJ7j8)

**Episode Highlights:**

- **Introduction:** Let's start with a quick introduction. I'm Leo, and I want to make it clear that what I'm sharing today is my own personal perspective, not medical advice.
- **Supporting Mental Health:** I'll talk about my daughter's journey with mental health challenges after losing her father and how it's impacted her life.
- **Facing Life's Tests:** We'll dive into the struggles my daughter faces in managing her responsibilities and relationships while dealing with the absence of her father.
- **Standing By Your Loved Ones:** I'll share my thoughts on why it's important to stand by our loved ones, even when they push us away due to their own struggles.
- **Inner Strength Over External Change:** Let's discuss the concept of focusing on our inner strength instead of hoping that the world around us will magically change.
- **Grief's Extra Burden:** I'll touch on how grief can amplify life's challenges, especially for those of us who've experienced loss.
- **Taking Control:** We'll explore the idea of taking control of our reactions and emotions when faced with life's difficulties.
- **The Power of Goals:** I'll offer my perspective on setting personal goals as a means to shift our focus away from negativity and toward personal growth.
- **Wrapping Up:** Before we close, I'll invite you to share the goals you've set and connect with others who are on a similar journey.

**Key Takeaways:**

1. Be there for your loved ones even when they seem distant due to their struggles.
2. Shift your focus from external circumstances to building inner strength to overcome challenges.
3. Grief adds an extra layer of complexity to life's hardships.
4. You have the power to manage your reactions and emotions during difficult times.
5. Set personal goals to redirect your energy towards growth and positivity.

**Join the Conversation:**

- Share your thoughts and insights about this episode in the comments below.
- Connect with me and fellow listeners by sharing the personal goals you've chosen and your progress.

**Stay Connected:**

- Subscribe to the *One Happy Widow* podcast to receive new episode notifications.
- Don't forget to press the notification bell to stay updated on all my content.

**Disclaimer:** Remember, I'm sharing from personal experience and insight, not as a medical professional. If you're struggling with mental health issues, consider seeking advice from a medical expert.

**Resources:**

- National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255

**Note:** This podcast episode is a recap and interpretation of the original video on YouTube. For the full experience, watch the video [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vzE2MdJ7j8).

**[End of Show Notes]**