So, you too sometimes have the impression that a slightly sulky little you lives in a corner of your head, ready to throw a tantrum or withdraw as soon as the going gets rough? 

Well, congratulations, you've just met your inner child! 

In Homecoming: Reclaiming and Healing Your Inner Child, John Bradshaw explains how this child can be the key to understanding your reactions, healing your wounds, and (re)finding joy and creativity.

And guess what? These teachings resonate with what I share in PODnow® and Elevate CEO Consciousness. They talk about loving yourself, respecting your past, and using mindfulness to move forward with intention. Come on, let's dive into these 10 lessons and what they can change for you.

10 Keys to Healing Your Inner Child and Raising Your Consciousness

1. Acknowledge your wounded child
   • Bradshaw says that many of our adult behaviours stem from unresolved childhood wounds. With PODnow®, I suggest that you ‘Observe’ these triggers and welcome them instead of suffering or rejecting them.
2. Leave the past in the past, but don't ignore it
   • Your past may still influence your relationships and your self-confidence. It stings, but it can be repaired. I invite you to recognise the strengths and qualities that these past experiences have developed in you.
3. Review your unmet needs
   • Bradshaw explains that each stage of childhood has specific needs. What if I told you that these needs are still worth nurturing today? For example, give yourself the right to ask for support (and to accept it when it's offered).
4. Work on your original pain
   • Yes, sometimes you need to have a good cry about what you've missed or what's hurt you. I invite you to love yourself as you are and welcome these emotions without judgement. This is not weakness: it's liberation.
5. Reconnect with your inner child
   • Bradshaw suggests techniques such as meditation and writing to reconnect with your mini-self. I say to you: listen to that inner voice with compassion. What does it need to hear today?
6. Become your inner child's advocate
   • Defend its needs and limits. With PODnow®, we talk about ‘Respect Relationships (100x)’. - and it starts with your relationship with yourself. Learn to say no to things that don't serve you.
7. Break destructive family patterns
   • We've all inherited unspoken family rules like: ‘Don't show your emotions “ or ”Work hard, the rest doesn't matter’. Bradshaw and I suggest that you question these rules and build your own values.
8. Unleash your creativity and energy
   • Once your inner child feels secure, he becomes an incredible source of vitality. He's the one who pushes you to play, create and laugh more often. Not bad, eh?
9. Practice self-parenting every day
   • Be the parent you need to be. Offer yourself kind words, gentleness and a little benevolent discipline when necessary. With PODnow®, it's a daily practice of self-love (100).
10. Use concrete techniques to heal

• Bradshaw recommends exercises such as writing with the non-dominant hand or visualisations. I'm telling you: add these tools to your emotional toolbox and make them a ritual.
  
  

3 Concrete Actions to Reconcile Your Inner Child

1. Talk to your inner child
   • Take 5 minutes to write him a letter or just talk to him in your head. Ask him how he feels and what he needs.
   • Example: "I know you sometimes feel rejected when people criticise you. But I'm here now, and I'm going to protect us."
2. Set a clear limit to protect yourself
   • Identify a situation where you feel overwhelmed or manipulated. Set a boundary, even if it's uncomfortable.
   • Example: If someone overwhelms you with demands, say, ‘I can't deal with this right now, but I can help you later.’
3. Create a moment for play or creativity
   • Today, do something fun just for fun: draw, dance, or watch a film you loved as a child.
   • Example: Take 15 minutes to colour or build something (yes, LEGOs count).
     
     

Conclusion
Your inner child doesn't have to be a source of pain or blockage. With a little attention, compassion, and a few simple actions, it can become your greatest ally for a more joyful and aligned life.
So today, take a break. Listen to what this mini you has to say. Offer it some comfort, and see how it transforms not only your relationship with yourself, but also your leadership and your relationships with others. Go on, take that first step - your inner child is eagerly waiting for you. 🌟