Some early childhood experiences shape adult life, but which ones and how?
Our earliest experiences may stick with us for years and continue to influence us well into adulthood, our mental and emotional well-being, relationships and even physical health.
Today’s guest is Karen Lock Kolp who talks about how being sexually assaulted at age 7 has affected her whole life.
Karen describes herself as caring, curious, and childlike. She is truly such an incredible, complex, and positive person! At 40 years old Karen developed a chronic illness decreasing her ability to walk and to use her tendons. The conversation shifts topics as Anna Seewald dives deeper into Karen’s childhood.
At 7 years old Karen developed anxiety, worry and guilt. This behavior stemmed from a sexual assault involving a man close to the family, after this she turned her feelings inward carrying the weight. At 12 years old she tried to disclose this to her parents, though later in college began further healing. It wasn’t until age 21 that Karen was able to fully disclose the trauma to her Mom.
Karen shares some of the ripple effect in her relationships:
- Her Mother’s story of guilt, healing and support
- Having children and developing postpartum depression, and overcoming it faster with her second child through seeking help and support
- The triggering age of 7 for both of her boys
Karen continues to keep the light in her life through her work and mothering her two sons, 18 and 14 years old. She describes her motherhood experience as “growing into fun” and finding further joy during those early childhood years. In her present motherhood journey she delights in the ever changing phases and watching her children launch into their own! Hearing her speak is so powerful, real and inspiring. Listen in to this episode and follow along on her Facebook page to hear more from the wonderful Karen!
About my guest
Karen Lock Kolp, M.Ed. writes books, hosts the We Turned Out Okay podcast, and creates videos, free guides, and lots of other resources, including her private coaching community for parents.
Despite her education and experience teaching young children, when Karen had her own, she worried about her children way too much, and didn’t give herself enough credit (or downtime).
Karen created the resources so that you can overcome your concerns about raising young kids, feel happy inside, and truly enjoy family time. Stop by and say hello!
Resources and links
- Karen’s web site
- Follow her on Twitter
- Follow her on Instagram
- Listen to We Turned Out OK Podcast
- Join We Turned Out OK Facebook group
Other episodes you may like:
- How Trauma Gets Stuck in Your Nervous System with Irene Lyon
- Breaking Free From Old Stories with Marilupe De La Calle
- Sign of Childhood Trauma In Adults with Laura Reagan
- In The Search of The True Self
- How To Make Peace with Your Past and Heal Your Life with Mark Nepo
- Becoming Your Authentic Self with Andrea Mathews
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With gratitude,
Anna
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