Kate Motaung

Recovering from codependency is possible, but it’s not always easy. We remain locked into codependent relationships for many reasons, even when we know how they are damaging us. Being so closely tangled up with another person who relies on us, and on whom we can rely, is like having dopamine on tap. We have quick access to a feel-good emotional drug, and that can be addictive. The term “codependency” was first used in the context of Alcoholics Anonymous to [...]

Communication is a skill that all humans need to navigate life and relationships. There are conditions in our lives that can hijack our communication and hold us hostage to a mindset that disrupts connection instead of facilitating it. We see this when exploring the nature of codependency. Codependency is the state of being mutually reliant. For example, a relationship between two individuals who are emotionally dependent on one another. Codependent relationships are often characterized by dysfunction in which one [...]

When a child leaves for college, feelings of empty nest syndrome can be overwhelming. The house suddenly feels quieter, and one’s daily routine has changed. It is okay to feel sad or uncertain about this change. If you are in this situation, you may be wondering how you are going to align with the new normal and what to do with the extra time and space. Worry no more because this is exactly what this article will help you [...]

Many things in life will cause your stress to rise. Often, your response to this stress is to grab a snack. This is one of the most diagnosed responses to stress. Adults often admit that this has become a habit. Stress eating can have many negative health effects such as diabetes and high blood pressure. It is important to understand stress eating and how to overcome this habit. We must also remember that we were not created to worry. [...]

Anger is a powerful emotion. It is one of the most common emotions, especially during challenging circumstances. People tend to become angry when a situation is out of their control or a situation does not deliver a favorable outcome, despite prayer or other pleas for help. However, there are only a few resources out there that help people understand how to control or resolve their anger. These resources often treat the emotion as a negative issue that can lead [...]

The beauty of intimate relationships emerges from being seen and known by those who love us. Unconditional love and acceptance remove certain barriers from having to explain parts of ourselves that seem odd or unusual to others outside our family circle. This can free us to fully be who God created. However, this is not the case with every family. Sometimes, challenges with intimacy arise when our hearts feel unsafe with those closest to us, giving rise to a [...]

Some things are just way more fun when you do them with another person. Hiking, dancing, watching a movie, getting a good workout in, making a meal, going thrifting – these and many other activities can be fun when you do them with someone else. This isn’t to say you can’t do them alone, or that they lack something as a solo activity. Rather, if you do them with a like-minded person who’s up for it, it can be [...]

Loss comes to us in different ways. One of the most devastating ways to experience loss is when it’s through a miscarriage. The promise of a new life that doesn’t come to full flower can leave one feeling confused, angry, guilty, and uncertain about the future. Understanding what happened can be a step toward finding healing and wholeness after miscarriage. Making sense of a miscarriage A miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a fetus before reaching the twentieth week [...]

Self-growth is a term often used alongside personal development. It is discovering and understanding your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It is learning to grow stronger in every area: physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It is developing skills that will help you pursue your dreams and goals. It is growing marketable skills to land a better-paying job or position. Even if you work a full-time job, you can develop your self-growth by making minor tweaks to your morning routine. Tips [...]

We think that growing old is something to be sad about. In years past, our society has led us to believe that growing old means you are doomed to a life of knitting and porch rocking with a cat in your lap. This is so far from the truth. Growing old is a privilege and inspiring. When you have raised your children and are enjoying life without the demands of parenthood, you find yourself in a place of learning [...]

Living a godly life as a single mother can be difficult. You may feel lonely, defeated, unsure of what to do or how to accomplish something. You can feel that things are unfair and become sad or angry. All of these are valid emotions that single mothers feel. Single mothers experience a day-to-day life of having to be mother and father, the one who makes all of the decisions and who does all of the work. Decision fatigue can [...]

Overcoming codependency is a complex process, but there is help available. One of the best things you can do if you are trying to navigate codependent relationships is to lean on biblical wisdom. This will help you make healthy choices such as relying on God, connecting with a Christian counselor, and setting healthy boundaries that honor the unique person God designed you to be. It is always advised to develop a support network to help you overcome issues like [...]