Embracing My Inner Compass

On a crisp evening during my time away at college, a group of friends and I set out for a night of revelry, landing at a bustling house party. As the clock struck midnight, a few of us felt the pull of fatigue and the desire to return to campus. Fortunately, the boyfriend of one of the girls in our group generously offered to give us a ride.

Gratefully, we accepted, and as the night unfolded, I found myself the last one in the car. The details of that evening remain hazy, but a persistent unease nestled in my stomach lingered. It whispered caution when my friend, his girlfriend, was dropped off. Despite this inner alarm, I hesitated, failing to act on my instincts.

Regrettably, my hesitancy proved costly. The individual in question crossed boundaries, attempting to compromise my sense of safety. Drawing from a well of unforeseen strength, I managed to extricate myself and find refuge in a secure place. It was a moment when I realized that my initial instincts had been a beacon, urging me to act.

In the aftermath, I confided in a trusted friend who, believing in my account, made the courageous decision to end her relationship with this person. Reflecting on the incident, I can’t help but wish I had trusted my instincts sooner. This experience became a pivotal chapter in my journey toward self-trust, emphasizing the importance of listening to that quiet voice within, even when doubt clouds the way.

Reflecting on my life, I’ve come to realize that I’ve spent a significant portion of it second-guessing myself. When I reflect back there are so many experiences, decisions, and moments of self-doubt that have shaped my understanding of what it means to trust myself. The ability to rely on one’s own judgment, instincts, and capabilities is a cornerstone of personal growth and empowerment.  It’s a journey of learning to trust myself—understanding that mistakes are stepping stones, not stumbling blocks.

Each moment of doubt is an opportunity to embrace self-discovery and cultivate confidence in my choices.

In the symphony of my life, my decisions, both significant and trivial, compose the notes that shape my journey. The constant stream of inquiries floods my mind: Should I embark on this professional endeavor? Does this job align with my aspirations? Is attending this event the right move? Which educational path is best for me? These questions, like a compass pointing in all directions, steer me through the labyrinth of choices. Choosing classes, pursuing opportunities, advocating for oneself—all occur amidst the ceaseless backdrop of life’s decisions. The chorus of doubts may extend beyond personal realms: Should my child join that sports team? Is it time to indulge in a well-deserved vacation? In the mosaic of these inquiries lies a common thread: the challenge of trusting myself amid the myriad choices that shape my narrative.

As I reflect on the chapters of my journey, I recognize that self-trust is my superpower—the force that renders me autonomous, powerful, and able to stand on my own. Each challenge, victory, and profound transformation has become a testament to this inner strength. I’ve learned to equate the big moments in life with powerful moments of self-discovery, understanding that my life is mine to shape and define.

In this odyssey of self-trust, I’ve uncovered the importance of trusting the clarity that resides within my mind. The compass within, though subtle at times, always points me in the right direction. Through the twists and turns, I’ve come to understand that trusting oneself is not just a choice; it’s a journey—an exploration of the contours of self-trust.

So, as the chapters unfold and new adventures beckon, I carry with me the knowledge that knowing my superpower is key to navigating the complexities of life. My autonomy, my power, and my ability to stand on my own are the pillars that support the narrative of my life. In the end, the thought in my mind becomes the guiding light—a beacon of trust that illuminates the path ahead. In its essence, self-trust is a force that empowers me to embrace my story, knowing that I am the author of my own narrative.


Tina Huey is a mom of two fantastic kids and wife of her hero, who also happens to be an incredible dad and husband. She is an avid reader, and a life long learner. She enjoys exercising. She loves to laugh—to find the ridiculous in adversity. She is passionate about life and living it to the fullest, being the best version of herself, and helping others in a positive way so we can all make this world a better place.