PDF Summary:Under Construction, by Chrishell Stause

In her memoir Under Construction, Chrishell Stause shares her inspirational journey of resilience, recounting her humble beginnings, struggles in the entertainment industry, and triumph over adversity. With raw honesty, Stause narrates her transition from hardship to success, offering insights into navigating career obstacles, forging healthy relationships, and harnessing personal strength in the face of loss.

Stause's narrative explores universal themes of perseverance, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness. She invites readers to embrace life's challenges as opportunities for growth, drawing wisdom from her experiences with unconventional paths, boundary-setting, grief, and reinvention.

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Stause encourages readers to view setbacks as chances for growth and reinvention, rather than as failures. She argues that remaining open to new possibilities and taking calculated risks can lead to unexpected opportunities and greater fulfillment, both personally and professionally.

Context

• Chrishell Stause later became known for her role on the reality TV show "Selling Sunset," which showcases high-end real estate transactions in Los Angeles, blending her acting and real estate careers.
• In many industries, especially entertainment, job security can be uncertain. Recognizing when a role or project is no longer viable allows individuals to pivot and explore other career options, which can lead to more sustainable and fulfilling work.
• Embracing a growth mindset involves seeing challenges as opportunities to learn and improve, rather than as insurmountable obstacles. This perspective can lead to personal and professional development.
• Being open to new possibilities requires adaptability, which is the ability to adjust to new conditions and environments. This skill is crucial in rapidly changing industries and can lead to career advancement.

She utilized her expertise in property transactions and her acumen for business to enhance her acting profession.

Stause believes that her background in property sales has been advantageous to her acting profession. She acknowledges that her journey to become qualified in real estate transcended the mere aim of ensuring a consistent revenue stream; it was equally about asserting control over her career trajectory. Stause applies her business skills, acquired through real estate, to negotiate better contracts, make strategic career choices, and advocate for herself in the competitive entertainment industry.

Stause encourages people to apply the wisdom and skills they have acquired through their previous experiences to identify new opportunities and strengthen their career paths. She argues that a range of experiences often leads to unexpected benefits that enhance one's career trajectory.

Context

• Selling properties requires confidence and the ability to present oneself effectively, skills that are valuable in auditions and public appearances.
• By diversifying her career, she gains more control over her professional life, allowing her to make choices based on passion rather than necessity.
• Real estate professionals often analyze market trends and property values to make informed decisions. Similarly, in acting, understanding industry trends and audience preferences can guide career choices, such as selecting roles or projects that align with long-term goals.
• Skills gained in one field, such as communication, negotiation, and problem-solving, can be valuable in different industries, allowing for smoother transitions and adaptability.
• Learning from different fields can foster creativity, as it encourages thinking outside conventional boundaries and integrating ideas from multiple disciplines.

Chrishell Stause's personal experiences with romantic involvements and private matters.

Chrishell's experiences with love and marriage.

In this segment of her story, the author delves into her personal life, sharing her encounters with love and the important teachings she has gathered from periods of joy and times of distress. Stause highlights the significance of understanding oneself, setting clear limits, and becoming adept at identifying warning signs within relationships, while promoting a harmonious approach to romance that places a high value on self-respect and individual development.

She contemplates her past inclination to become attracted to individuals who display overwhelming affection prematurely and her neglect of early warning indicators.

Stause candidly admits her previous challenges in romance, particularly her inclination to be attracted to individuals who exhibit intense and overwhelming affection quickly. These individuals, as she depicts, use grand gestures and lavish displays to foster a deeply romantic bond, often masking underlying issues or red flags that become apparent later on. Stause narrates her encounters with a former partner and Justin Hartley, both of which ended in significant heartache and emotional turmoil.

Stause highlights the significance of acknowledging the tendency to be attracted to those who engage in excessive affection early in relationships and the necessity of discerning warning signs in partnerships. She advises readers to emphasize self-awareness and to evaluate potential partners with caution, rather than allowing themselves to be carried away by grandiose actions or strong feelings.

Practical Tips

• Create a "relationship roadmap" for yourself that outlines your ideal progression in a relationship, from the first date to becoming exclusive. Use this as a guide to help you navigate the early stages of dating and to recognize when things might be moving too quickly for your comfort.
• Create a personal "red flag" journal where you note down behaviors or situations in your relationships that make you uncomfortable or uneasy. By regularly reviewing this journal, you can identify patterns and address issues early on. For example, if you notice that you've written about feeling disregarded multiple times, it might be a sign to have a conversation with your partner about your need for respect and attention.
• Reflect on your past relationships by journaling to identify patterns where grand gestures were mistaken for deep connection. Write down instances where you felt a grand gesture overshadowed the need for genuine communication and growth. This will help you recognize similar situations in the future and approach them with a more critical eye.
• Practice self-compassion exercises when dealing with emotional turmoil from past relationships. This could include meditation focused on forgiving yourself for any perceived mistakes or writing letters of forgiveness to yourself. Imagine what you would say to a friend in a similar situation and apply that kindness to yourself.
• Engage in "Affection Audits" with a trusted friend. Share your experiences with early affection in new relationships and ask for their perspective. Sometimes an outside view can provide clarity. Choose a friend who is known for their honesty and balanced approach to relationships. Discuss specific instances of affection and get their take on whether it seems excessive or normal. This can help you calibrate your own perceptions with someone else's viewpoint.
• Create a "reality-check" list for evaluating new relationships by identifying non-negotiable values and deal-breakers that are important to you. When you meet someone new, refer to this list to see if they align with your core values rather than getting caught up in the moment. For example, if honesty is a non-negotiable value for you, observe their behavior over time to see if they consistently tell the truth.

Chrishell Stause endured the distress and the widespread attention her divorce attracted.

Stause shares the upsetting experience of learning about the end of her marriage to Justin Hartley through a text message while filming her series "Selling Sunset." She openly discusses the devastation and humiliation she felt, compounded by the public scrutiny and tabloid attention surrounding the split. However, Stause also emphasizes how she harnessed the experience to foster personal growth, choosing to embrace transparency and share her story on her own terms.

Stause recommends that individuals who have experienced similar emotional distress acknowledge their grief and seek comfort through the support of friends, family, or professional therapy. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on healing and moving forward, rather than dwelling on the past or allowing bitterness to take hold.

Context

• The incident highlights the challenges of maintaining privacy in the digital age, where personal news can be shared instantly and without face-to-face communication.
• Public scrutiny and tabloid attention can amplify personal distress by making private matters a topic of public discussion, often leading to sensationalized or inaccurate portrayals.
• By being transparent, Stause could inspire others to face their own challenges openly, promoting a culture of honesty and resilience in the face of adversity.
• Professional therapy offers a structured environment where individuals can explore their feelings with a trained expert, often leading to insights and coping strategies that might not be accessible through informal support networks.
• Techniques such as mindfulness and meditation can aid in the process of moving forward by helping individuals stay present and reduce rumination on past events.

Drawing lessons from previous errors to concentrate on securing a nurturing, affirming relationship.

Chrishell Stause's journey through the peaks of love and the valleys of sorrow has provided her with essential understanding of her relationship needs and self-worth. She acknowledges her past mistakes, including overlooking red flags and prioritizing passion over compatibility.

Stause advocates for individuals to draw lessons from their personal romantic encounters, whether they are uplifting or challenging, in order to set firmer limits and enhance their sense of personal value. She argues that true love should be built on mutual respect, trust, and shared values, rather than fleeting infatuation or intense emotions.

Practical Tips

• Develop a "self-worth portfolio" that includes affirmations, achievements, and positive feedback you've received. Regularly update and review this portfolio to remind yourself of your value, independent of your relationships. This could be as simple as a digital folder on your computer or a physical scrapbook where you add new items each week.
• Develop a "respect ritual" where you both share three things you respect about each other at the end of each day. This could be anything from acknowledging a partner's hard work to appreciating the way they handled a difficult situation. This practice encourages a habit of looking for and affirming the positive aspects of one another, reinforcing mutual respect.
• Practice saying "no" in low-stakes situations to build your assertiveness muscle. Begin with scenarios that don't carry emotional weight, like declining a store's loyalty card or not accepting extra tasks at work when your plate is full. As you get more comfortable, gradually apply this practice to more personal interactions.
• Set up a monthly "relationship audit" with your partner to discuss and align life directions. Use this time to talk about how your individual aspirations and habits fit together, making adjustments as needed. This practice encourages ongoing communication about compatibility and can help prevent drifting apart due to unspoken expectations or misaligned goals.
• Engage in role-playing scenarios with a trusted friend to practice assertiveness and boundary-setting based on your past experiences. For instance, if you've learned that you tend to give too much in relationships, role-play a situation where you assert your needs. This can help you build the confidence to maintain your personal value in future romantic interactions.

Chrishell's journey with fertility and family planning

The segment delves into the author's experiences with fertility obstacles and her profound aspiration to nurture a family of her own. Stause openly discusses her decision to safeguard her future ability to have children through egg freezing, exploring the challenges of this process, her role as a stepmother, and her openness to different paths toward motherhood.

She confronted the physiological and psychological hurdles that came with her choice to maintain her reproductive potential by cryopreserving her oocytes.

Stause explores her decision to safeguard her potential to have children in the future by opting for oocyte cryopreservation, particularly after her marriage ended. She candidly discusses the physical and emotional challenges associated with the process, including the daily hormone injections, the physical discomfort, and the uncertainty surrounding the outcome.

Stause demystifies the process of egg freezing by candidly discussing its more challenging aspects, making it more approachable for women considering this option. She encourages people to prioritize their reproductive health and to be aware of the different options available to them, while also acknowledging the emotional toll that fertility treatments can take.

Context

• Advances in cryopreservation techniques, such as vitrification, have improved the survival rates of eggs during the freezing and thawing processes, making the procedure more viable.
• There may be societal or cultural attitudes towards egg freezing that can influence a person's decision, including ethical debates about reproductive technology and personal beliefs about family planning.
• The process can be expensive, often not covered by insurance, which can add financial stress to the emotional and physical challenges.
• The emotional uncertainty can be significant, as individuals may face anxiety about whether the eggs will result in a future pregnancy.
• The process typically involves hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved through a minor surgical procedure.
• She likely offers detailed explanations of the medical procedures involved, which can help women understand what to expect and reduce anxiety about the unknown aspects of the process.
• A comprehensive approach to reproductive health considers the overall well-being of an individual, including nutrition, exercise, and stress management, which can all influence fertility.
• The cost of reproductive technologies can be significant, and insurance coverage varies widely. Understanding financial options and potential assistance programs is crucial.
• The process can impact personal relationships, as partners may experience differing levels of stress and emotional responses, potentially leading to tension.

Chrishell Stause openly discusses her desire to start a family, considering the idea of pursuing parenthood independently.

Stause reflects on her time as a stepmother during her marriage and nurtures the hope of eventually becoming a mother in her own right. She recognizes multiple pathways to parenthood, including single parenting and adoption, understanding that creating a nurturing and supportive family environment is not exclusively tied to the traditional nuclear family model.

Stause encourages readers to be open to exploring different family structures and to define what family means to them, regardless of societal expectations or traditional norms. She underscores the significance of fostering a nurturing and affirmative atmosphere for youngsters, which forms the bedrock of familial existence, no matter the situation.

Practical Tips

• Create a financial roadmap for single parenthood by consulting with a financial advisor. Discuss the specific costs associated with raising a child alone, such as childcare, education, and healthcare. Use this information to plan a budget and savings strategy that accommodates the potential increase in expenses.
• Start a blog or social media page where you share stories and resources related to non-traditional paths to parenthood. This platform could serve as a space for people to learn about and celebrate the different ways families come together. You might interview single parents, share articles on adoption, or post information about the legal aspects of different parenting arrangements.
• Start a weekly "family lab" where you and a group of friends or acquaintances meet to discuss and share experiences about what family means to each of you. Rotate hosting duties and encourage each participant to bring a story, question, or topic about family structures for group discussion. This can broaden your perspective on family and help you redefine your own concept of it.
• Create a 'compliment jar' for your household where family members can drop in written compliments about each other. Regularly reading these compliments aloud can reinforce positive interactions and help family members feel valued and supported, irrespective of external societal pressures.

She values the encouragement she receives from other career-oriented mothers in her circle.

Stause highlights the support she gets from her family and fellow professionals, who balance parenting and their jobs, including her associates from the real estate firm where she is employed. She conveys deep respect for the influential women surrounding her, especially her sibling Shonda, as well as her colleagues Amanza and Mary, who skillfully balance their roles as parents with their professional goals.

Stause advocates for readers to find guidance and solidarity among other career-oriented mothers, recognizing that exchanging stories and providing mutual support can ease the stress and concerns tied to juggling professional and domestic responsibilities.

Context

• The concept of career-oriented mothers often involves balancing demanding work schedules with family responsibilities, which can create unique challenges and stressors.
• There has been a cultural shift towards more equitable sharing of parenting duties, allowing both parents to pursue careers while raising children.
• Mentorship from experienced professionals can provide guidance and encouragement, helping individuals to advance in their careers while managing family responsibilities.
• Sharing experiences with others in similar situations can offer emotional support, reducing feelings of isolation and stress.
• Observing peers successfully managing dual roles can serve as inspiration and motivation, demonstrating that it is possible to thrive in both areas.

Advocacy and Defending Her Own Interests

Chrishell's strategy for handling conflicts and adversaries in the workplace.

This section of the narrative explores the author's strategies for managing conflicts in a professional setting, particularly focusing on the challenges encountered at the real estate firm featured on the TV series "Selling Sunset." Stause encourages readers to find a balance between asserting themselves and choosing their battles wisely, prioritizing their well-being while also maintaining professionalism and seeking positive solutions.

Developing strategies for addressing passive-aggressive behavior and gossip

Stause recounts her time at a renowned real estate firm, an environment rife with understated conflicts and routine office chatter. She discusses her experiences with colleagues like Christine Quinn, who frequently uses manipulative tactics and attempts to undermine her coworkers.

Stause emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and refusing to engage in negativity. She suggests strategies for addressing passive-aggressive behaviors, such as calling out the behavior directly, redirecting the conversation, or simply disengaging from the interaction. Stause advocates for readers to place their well-being at the forefront and steer clear of trivial conflicts or harmful exchanges.

Practical Tips

• You can create a "No Gossip" pledge at your workplace to foster a more positive environment. Start by drafting a simple pledge that emphasizes the importance of direct communication and respect for colleagues. Encourage your coworkers to sign it and display it in a common area as a daily reminder to avoid engaging in passive-aggressive behavior and gossip.
• Create a personal code of conduct that outlines your commitment to ethical behavior in the workplace. This can include principles such as honesty, respect, and collaboration. Share this with your colleagues to encourage a culture of integrity and discourage manipulative practices.
• Use a visual boundary reminder in your daily environment. Place a small object like a stone or a figurine on your desk or in your pocket as a physical reminder to maintain your boundaries. When you see or touch it, let it prompt you to disengage from negative interactions and refocus on positive ones.
• Develop a personal code word to signal when you need a moment to assess potential passive-aggressive behavior. When you encounter a situation that feels passive-aggressive, mentally note or whisper your code word to remind yourself to pause and consider the best course of action. This could be a word like "reflect" or "pause," which serves as a cue to take a step back and decide whether to address the behavior, redirect, or disengage.

She demonstrated judiciousness in her confrontations, identifying the times when silence was appropriate and when it was essential to speak up.

Stause acknowledges that conflict is inevitable in any workplace, but argues that choosing battles wisely is essential for maintaining a productive and positive environment. She recognizes that sometimes the best way to counter rudeness or demeaning comments is by remaining silent or responding with indifference.

Stause advises readers to meticulously evaluate every disagreement to decide if it necessitates a prompt confrontation or if it would be wiser to simply release it from concern. She recommends considering if the disagreement is genuinely significant or merely a diversion from more critical objectives.

Practical Tips

• Implement a "24-Hour Cooling Period" before tackling any workplace issue. When a potential conflict arises, take a full day before responding to assess whether it's worth the battle. This time allows you to evaluate the situation with a clear mind and decide if engaging will contribute to a positive environment or if it's better to let go.
• Practice "Empathy Role-Playing" with a friend where you each take turns explaining a disagreement from the other person's perspective. This exercise can help you understand the other side of the conflict, potentially showing you when it's more beneficial to empathize and let go rather than confront.
• Use a decision-making app like "Decide Now!" to randomize the choice of whether to engage in a disagreement when it's not clear-cut. Customize the app's wheel with options based on the potential impact on your goals, such as "Discuss further," "Research more," "Let it go," or "Seek advice." This can introduce a playful element to decision-making and reduce the stress of indecision.

She employs a blend of wit, understanding, and a composed assurance to alleviate tension during challenging moments.

Stause demonstrates a skillful approach to navigating workplace tension. She frequently employs wit to counteract gloominess and inject levity, while also showing compassion and comprehension for her coworkers, including those she may find difficult. Stause promotes maintaining a serene demeanor, employing a subtle yet firm assurance to establish her boundaries and preserve her poise, particularly in the face of aggression or hostility.

Stause advocates for individuals to develop personal techniques to alleviate stress in challenging circumstances, proposing that wit, understanding, and confidence are effective instruments for managing disputes with elegance while fostering a constructive atmosphere in the workplace.

Practical Tips

• Create a playlist of stand-up comedy routines and humorous podcasts to listen to during stressful times. Laughter can be a powerful tool to alleviate stress, so having a readily accessible collection of comedy can serve as an instant mood lifter. When you're feeling down, play a track from your playlist to inject a dose of humor into your day.
• Create a "Support Board" in your workspace where colleagues can post notes when they need help or support. Regularly check the board and offer assistance when you can. This visible commitment to supporting each other fosters a culture of compassion and teamwork.
• Develop a personal mantra to recite internally when facing hostility. Create a short, affirmative phrase that resonates with you, such as "Stay calm, stay clear," and repeat it silently when you feel provoked. This can serve as a mental anchor, keeping you focused on your goal of serenity amidst aggression.
• Designate a 'stress relief spot' in your home, such as a cozy corner with comfortable seating, soft lighting, and pleasant scents. Whenever you feel overwhelmed, retreat to this spot to practice deep breathing or meditation. Personalize the space with items that soothe you, like a favorite blanket, a plant, or a piece of art that evokes calmness.

Chrishell's journey in learning to set boundaries and prioritize her own well-being

In this section of the book, the author focuses on her growth in establishing boundaries and prioritizing her psychological and emotional well-being, particularly concerning her career and interpersonal relationships. Stause highlights the significance of identifying harmful surroundings, mustering the bravery to leave, and obtaining assistance from reliable loved ones and companions.

Identifying harmful relationships or circumstances and possessing the bravery to leave them behind.

Stause contemplates her encounters with harmful people in both her professional and private spheres. She shares examples of encounters with manipulative colleagues, exploitative managers, and romantic partners who exhibited red flags or unhealthy behaviors. Stause emphasizes the significance of identifying harmful behaviors, establishing limits, and possessing the bravery to leave environments that negatively impact an individual's health.

Stause advocates for readers to give precedence to their psychological and emotional well-being. She maintains the importance of identifying toxic signals and possessing the bravery to extricate oneself from detrimental associations or circumstances, despite the potential immediate discomfort or challenge.

Practical Tips

• Develop a 'relationship exit strategy' for gracefully distancing yourself from harmful relationships. This could involve setting boundaries, such as limiting the time you spend with the person, or choosing to communicate primarily in group settings rather than one-on-one.

Other Perspectives

• The process of setting boundaries is complex and can be perceived as rigid or unaccommodating, potentially hindering the development of deep and flexible relationships.
• In some cultures, collective well-being is valued over individual emotional needs, and prioritizing personal psychological health might conflict with cultural or familial expectations.
• The idea of leaving negative environments can be seen as a privileged perspective, as it assumes one has the choice or means to leave, which isn't always the case for everyone.
• There's a risk of developing a hyper-vigilant mindset where one is constantly on the lookout for toxic signals, which can lead to anxiety and hinder the development of trust and healthy relationships.

Developing a support system of trusted friends and refusing to give energy to negativity

Stause underscores the significance of nurturing a dependable network of close relatives and companions. She recounts instances where her steadfast companions and siblings were pillars of support in challenging times, always ready to offer counsel, encouragement, and a sympathetic ear.

Stause emphasizes the importance of selectively curating one's inner circle to ensure it comprises individuals who genuinely offer support and maintain an uplifting atmosphere. She argues that surrounding oneself with positivity is crucial to maintain resilience and protect one's energy from negative influences and disputes.

Other Perspectives

• Relying heavily on friends and family for support might inhibit self-reliance and the development of coping mechanisms that are necessary for dealing with life's challenges independently.
• The process of curating one's inner circle might inadvertently lead to the exclusion of individuals who could challenge one's views in a healthy way, thus potentially stifiring personal development and understanding.
• There is a risk that the emphasis on positivity could invalidate or minimize the experiences and feelings of those who are struggling with mental health issues, where simply being around positivity is not a sufficient solution.
• Completely avoiding negativity can sometimes lead to a lack of preparedness for real-world challenges, where negative situations must be faced and managed rather than avoided.

Navigating through the complexities of grief and loss

Chrishell's experiences with the deaths of her parents

This section of the narrative delves deeply into the author's personal odyssey of grief, grappling with the swift and consecutive losses of her mother and father to a battle with cancer. Stause emphasizes the importance of holding dear the memories of our departed loved ones, wholeheartedly navigating the path of mourning, and finding comfort and direction in a supportive community as we deal with the sorrow of losing a loved one.

She honored her father's memory and spirit by participating in musical celebrations.

Stause recounts the profound sorrow she endured when her father passed away following a four-year struggle with lung cancer. She poignantly describes how her family chose to celebrate his life at his memorial, playing his favorite rock music and wearing band T-shirts instead of traditional mourning attire.

Chrishell Stause encourages honoring the memory and legacy of a loved one by finding sincere and personalized ways that genuinely embody the unique personality and passions of the individual who has passed away.

Context

• Choosing to wear band T-shirts and play rock music can reflect a celebration of life rather than a focus on loss, aligning with modern approaches to memorials.
• This approach reflects broader cultural shifts where people are increasingly seeking to celebrate life and individuality, moving away from somber, uniform rituals to more vibrant and personal commemorations.
• Personalizing a memorial can aid in the grieving process by allowing family and friends to celebrate the life lived, which can provide comfort and a sense of closure.

Navigating the sudden decline and loss of her mother and the pain of that transition

Stause recounts the deeply emotional ordeal of her mother's demise from lung cancer, a tragedy that unfolded soon after her father's death. She describes the shock and pain of her mother's sudden diagnosis and rapid decline, emphasizing the emotional turmoil of navigating the final stages of her illness and the subsequent grief.

Stause openly shares her vulnerabilities and the raw emotions associated with loss, allowing readers to connect with her experience and find solace in shared grief. She emphasizes the necessity of fully embracing grief, recognizing the anguish, and seeking assistance to manage the tumultuous emotions associated with loss.

Context

• The process of a cancer diagnosis often involves multiple tests, including imaging scans and biopsies, to determine the presence and extent of the disease.
• Rapid declines often require quick decisions about treatment options, palliative care, and end-of-life planning, which can be overwhelming for families.
• Family dynamics can become strained as different members may have varying opinions on care decisions or may cope with the situation in different ways.
• The shock of a sudden diagnosis often leaves little time for mental preparation, intensifying feelings of helplessness and distress.
• The loss of both parents in quick succession can disrupt family roles and dynamics, adding layers of stress and emotional complexity.
• Embracing vulnerability is often seen as a crucial step in the healing process, allowing individuals to confront and process their emotions more effectively.
• Readers may develop a deeper empathy for others going through similar experiences, as Stause’s narrative provides insight into the complexities of grief.
• In many cultures, there is a tendency to avoid discussing grief openly, often encouraging people to "move on" quickly. Embracing grief challenges these norms by validating the emotional process.
• Grief can manifest physically, leading to symptoms like fatigue, changes in appetite, and sleep disturbances, which are part of the anguish associated with loss.
• Reaching out to friends and family for emotional support can be crucial, as they can offer comfort, companionship, and practical help during difficult times.

She sought comfort in her siblings' embrace, all the while keeping her parents' legacy alive.

Stause highlights the pivotal support she received from her sisters as they collectively navigated through the grief of losing their parents. She describes how they leaned on each other, shared responsibilities, and found comfort in their shared grief.

Stause emphasizes the importance of drawing solace and resilience from loved ones during times of grief, recognizing that gathering to honor memories can greatly facilitate the journey towards recovery. She also emphasizes the importance of keeping the spirit of our loved ones alive by incorporating their values, passions, or unique characteristics into our everyday lives as a sincere homage to their existence.

Context

• The process of grieving often involves stages such as denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance, and having a support system can help individuals navigate these stages more effectively.
• Sharing responsibilities can mean dividing tasks like handling legal matters, organizing family gatherings, or maintaining family traditions.
• Gathering with loved ones to honor memories can provide psychological benefits by creating a supportive environment where individuals feel understood and less isolated in their grief.
• Many cultures have traditions that involve honoring ancestors by integrating their teachings and values into daily rituals, such as celebrating specific holidays or maintaining family traditions.

Chrishell Stause transformed her grief into a display of artistic expression by competing in the television dance competition, "Dancing with Celestial Bodies."

This section of the narrative explores how Stause channeled her grief into creative outlets, finding solace and guidance through the unexpected medium of rhythmic movement. She highlights the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression, advocating for finding outlets that allow for emotional release and personal growth, even during times of profound sadness.

Chrishell Stause discovered comfort and a way to express her emotions by participating in dance routines.

Stause recounts her unexpected choice to join the cast of the dance competition show soon after her mother passed away, a move that caught many off guard, herself included. She narrates her experience of channeling her emotions into an artistic pursuit, finding that the intense cognitive and bodily challenges of the act provided a much-appreciated distraction.

Stause advocates for individuals to seek out their unique forms of artistic expression, emphasizing that such endeavors that facilitate the outpouring of emotions and provide a physical outlet can serve as potent instruments for navigating through sorrow and attaining momentary solace.

Context

• Dance is often used as a therapeutic tool because it combines physical movement with emotional expression, which can help individuals process complex feelings.
• The choice to engage in a public competition could also be a strategic career move, potentially increasing visibility and opening up new professional opportunities.
• The structure and discipline of learning choreography can offer a sense of control and achievement during times of emotional upheaval.
• Artistic expression can include a wide range of activities such as painting, music, writing, or dance, each offering different ways to process and express emotions.
• Engaging in art can lead to personal insights and growth, helping individuals to understand and reframe their experiences of loss in a new light.

Chrishell Stause's significant journey culminated in a deep bond and a purposeful understanding with her parents.

Stause narrates how her involvement in the competitive dance show was a homage to her late parents' legacy. She channeled the distinctive characteristics and passions of the individuals she remembered into her performances, paying tribute to them through her animated expressions and gaining strength from the conviction that they would have respected her determination and persistence.

Stause advocates for maintaining bonds with departed loved ones by engaging in meaningful activities, proposing that the essence of those who are no longer with us can endure through treasured recollections and values.

Context

• Dance is a powerful medium for expression, enabling individuals to convey emotions and stories through movement, which can be particularly poignant when honoring someone's memory.
• These shows often require participants to convey deep emotions and stories through their performances, making them a fitting platform for personal tributes.
• The use of animated expressions in dance can help communicate complex emotions and themes, allowing performers to connect with the audience on a deeper level.
• By honoring her parents in this way, she maintained a connection to her heritage and personal history, which can be a source of strength and identity.
• Engaging in meaningful activities can include rituals, traditions, or hobbies that were shared with the departed loved ones, helping to keep their memory alive.

Emerging from her darkest times with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude

Stause contemplates the impact of her bereavement on her outlook, recognizing that although the ache of losing someone never completely vanishes, it can evolve into a wellspring of resilience and inspiration. She emphasizes the importance of cherishing gratitude in moments of grief, treasuring the memories of the departed, and using these events to fuel personal growth.

Stause inspires her audience to rise from challenging periods with a revitalized sense of intention, acknowledging that hope for recovery and a more promising future persists even during the bleakest times.

Context

• The psychological impact of losing someone can manifest in various ways, such as changes in identity or worldview. People may find themselves questioning their beliefs or values, which can lead to personal growth or a shift in life priorities.
• Experiencing bereavement can trigger post-traumatic growth, where individuals find new strengths and perspectives they didn't have before the loss.
• Expressing gratitude can enhance relationships with others, providing a support network that is crucial during grieving periods.
• Memories serve as a bridge, maintaining a sense of connection and continuity with the past, which can be reassuring during times of change or loss.
• For some, adversity can lead to spiritual growth, providing a deeper sense of purpose and connection to something greater than oneself.
• Setting new goals and creating actionable plans can help individuals focus their energy and resources on what truly matters, fostering a sense of direction and motivation.
• Studies in neuroscience suggest that hope can activate brain areas associated with goal-directed behavior and problem-solving, which can be crucial for navigating through difficult periods.