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Be Beyond Borders helps people and organisations navigate change effectively and meaningfully.
Founded by Solène Anglaret, Be Beyond Borders is on a mission to help dreamers do and doers dream.
Using a blend of creativity, empathy, and strategy, we create courageous spaces where uncertainty turns into opportunity.
We work together with you to explore new possibilities, challenge the status quo, and gain the clarity needed to fuel effective and meaningful action.
Want to learn more ?
Testimonials
"Solène and I worked together on Diversity and Inclusion programmes supporting UK innovators. She’s one of the few leaders who lead with true empathy, compassion, and an inclusive, can-do spirit. Her ability to connect with stakeholders, think big, and coach others - myself included - into finding their own answers is remarkable. Solène is a changemaker who sparks lasting impact wherever she goes."
Veronica Frincu
Talent & Inclusion Manager, CDW UK - Epsom, UK
Vous parlez français ? Nous aussi !
Chez Be Beyond Borders, tous nos services sont aussi disponibles en français :
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Consulting : Accompagnement au changement pour les entreprises et les entrepreneur·es.
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Coaching : Transition et transformation personnelle ou professionnelle pour trouver sa voie et sa voix.
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Créativité : Projets artistiques engagés qui brisent les tabous et font bouger les lignes.
Envie d’en discuter ? Contactez-nous ou prenez rendez-vous pour un Discovery Call afin d’échanger sur vos besoins et vos envies.
À très bientôt,
Solène - Fondatrice de Be Beyond Borders
Keep me in the loop
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive sporadic but heartfelt information about navigating change, turning uncertainty into opportunity, and the odd funny story.
![“If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours” 😃
My motto, especially when I facilitate webinars on deeply meaningful topics, like this week:
💛 Disability in Arts & Culture on behalf of @evenbreak_talentfirst for Arts Council England. Thank you @meghan__reed
“Solène was very cheerful and vibrant and made the session focused, well paced and engaging.”
💛 Mental Health Inclusion on behalf of @pbdiversity for Ocean Infinity’s Women’s Collective. Thank you @catwildman2000 and Charlotte.
“Thank you for that session, it was exactly what I hoped it would be and fantastically delivered.”
If you’re looking for a Consultant, Coach and Creative around the topics of neurodiversity and mental health, you know where to find me!
#Consultant #Coach #Creative #Faciltator #MentalHealth #Storyteller #Neurodiversity #Freelance #Multipotentialite #BeYouBelong
[Image description: two images (1) a green plant wall with written on it in neon lights: “If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours” and (2) Solène, a Caucasian woman with long wavy light-brown hair, sitting on a moving carousel horse. She is leaning back and her legs are raised. She is wearing a yellow, blue, and green flowery dress and smiling broadly, absolutely loving it!]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.75761-15/467002383_18359816455142736_5765054031421230357_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=8Pc8ZHEkxYwQ7kNvwEgiiLa&_nc_oc=Adka-hdPr38zfqoJ1gELpE7wF3qV5mUlUEK70z85rBgx6CrLnFkiSRr1tcM06-cvf-0&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfPaOH4D36S8Xr-_S9BCR-kBGa3DuCc2iiraflSf5Q-K_g&oe=68609E00)
![I’d tell her that one day she’ll begin unravelling the masks she’s so dutifully created and held.
Yes, really.
I was about 10 years old when I made the deliberate decision to be someone else.
It seemed like I wasn’t accepted and acceptable as I was, so I strived to become a chameleon, changing my colours to fit in.
After years of masking, I’m slowly learning to find a balance between:
✨ Acceptance and expression of who I am
✨ Change towards who I wish to become
It’s not easy - but being me doesn’t make me any less worthy of this rollercoaster of life… and of being loved, loving and loveable too.
I hope she’s listening and taking it in.
What would you tell your younger self?
#SelfExpression #BPD #Recovery #BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Freelancing#Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Authenticity #HumanInProgress
[Image description: Little me at 2 years old wearing a blue, green, and yellow party hat and pink heart-shaped sunglasses. I have a cheeky smile and I'm holding my hands out in front of my chin. My dress is red, blue, and white and my hair is waavy light-brown and shoulder length. I wish I remember what I was thinking back then in 1991...!]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/465189816_954530616724579_6049543765253844763_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=4VX2619mdEYQ7kNvwGxLpdT&_nc_oc=AdkCKWHqizl9YHQ0Ax_-khJf0nChuSYL5Jzg1Lymk8ZO0jwZGoeEVhr4iI3lRc_Nfdw&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfOHBcwpBJtV-jBFVujqvLapwo3B2Ft6wpFM32_xExMdnQ&oe=6860C08A)
![Have you ever lost hope? Me too…
It’s from that place of utter despair that ‘Still Here?’ was born.
💛 A short film to watch again and again when in the depths of darkness.
💛 A reminder to pause and ask ourselves: what makes life worth living?
💛 A story of hope and empathy for ourselves and each other.
'Still Here?' has been selected for the Little Venice Film Festival taking place in London on Saturday 26 October!!!
Tickets are FREE: https://www.littlevenicefilmfestival.org/2024-tickets/mental-health-experience-screenings
If you can't make it, we're also part of the online Lift-Off New Voices Festival, closing this Sunday 20 October ($12 to watch lots of shorts and pick your top 4): https://checkout.liftoff.network/new-voices-ft-sessions-october/
Huge thank you to: @the_stanley_studio @iamisaacharvey @emjadehames @helianthusiast @xannibelle @j.p.cavanagh @mindovermelanie @_ally_austin_ @madhurima_lahiri @georgetteshouldbestudying and @bigbossmusicmastering
#LittleVeniceFilmFestival #LiftOffGlobalNetwork #LiftOffFilmFestivals #LiftOffSessions #FilmmakerSessionsOctober #SupportIndieFilm #MentalHealth #ShortFilm #AudienceAward #CastYourVote #Hope @liftoffglobalnetwork @littlevenicefilmfestival
[Image description: Yellow background with 3 images on it. In a large landscape white frame, there is a portrait picture of Solène holding a book titled ‘Time for Hope’ with an orange cover. She wears a colourful blue, yellow, and green dress, black sunglasses, and long light-brown wavy hair. In a smaller white frame on the right-hand side, there is a black and white poster of the film ‘Still Here?’ with a close-up half-cut-out picture of Solène’s face. On the bottom left-hand side there is a laurel of the Little Venice Film Festival]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/463800771_1262382028127078_6218888422935933697_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=13tdcAtVjYIQ7kNvwHk_YnM&_nc_oc=AdntMTzlN3NmF_vM3fGY-gZgIuGAGFllaaVGfU7-xqzTrRDIbe0Js_Hbzqz0LBzu9zc&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfMq1FL8m1kp9FFgv0mWgN1jljAHEAKwFHbyo5vs1sERGw&oe=6860B975)
![Reminder: We all have mental health...
...But not everyone lives with a mental health condition.
This World Mental Health Day, let’s support each other in caring for both and building bridges of hope over borders of stigma and isolation 🩶
#WorldMentalHealthDay2024 #BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity
#Freelancing #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Authenticity #HumanInProgress
[Image description: Behind the scenes photo from the shoot of short film ‘Still Here?’ featuring cinematographer Robert Crampton who is wearing a brown hat, glasses, a black t-shirt, and jeans. He is holding a camera and filming Solène who is sitting in a beige chair in front of flowy curtains and is wearing black dress and tights. Her hair is light-brown and wavy. She looks quite sad]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/469684952_18363102991142736_6778841843304005131_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=vEU2TBGhAQQQ7kNvwFsOL_h&_nc_oc=Adm6hlmtpQD1lxIhPac2pOSKJ6i8ZGJZZPCzlhBCufY-z5wZ5JsDdMS-tcCFuf7xJm8&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfPFjVK04l7H9neqTlYDfpd6ekooEuok10tIkkMjQJRPzQ&oe=6860D0B1)
![Help!! Vote for our indie short film: 'Still Here?'
It has been selected for the First-Time Filmmaker Lift-Off Sessions: New Voices taking place online between NOW and 20 October 2024 and it has an audience award woohoo 🤞🎊💛
Watch the film and many other shorts and cast your vote today plizzzzz (tickets are $12): https://checkout.liftoff.network/new-voices-ft-sessions-october/ [LINK ALSO IN STORIES]
'Still Here?' is a short film about mental health. On the brink of despair, a woman contemplates ending her life. Listening to heartfelt messages from friends about what makes life worth living, she discovers the fragile yet resilient thread of hope. It offers a series of reminders to anyone struggling to hold on in their darkest moments.
Everyone who has lent their voice and image to the film has lived experience of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and suicidality. We are based all over the world: Australia, India, US, Canada, UK, UAE and represent even more cultures, countries, and languages through our backgrounds and life journeys.
Huge thank you to: @the_stanley_studio @iamisaacharvey @emjadehames @helianthusiast @thebpdbunch @xannibelle @j.p.cavanagh @mindovermelanie @_ally_austin_ @madhurima_lahiri @georgetteshouldbestudying @bigbossmusicmastering
#LiftOffGlobalNetwork #LiftOffFilmFestivals #LiftOffSessions #FilmmakerSessionsOctober #SupportIndieFilm #MentalHealth #ShortFilm #AudienceAward #CastYourVote #Hope @liftoffglobalnetwork
[Image description: Poster of the short film 'Still Here?' with a close up photo of the left hand side of Solène's face. Her eyes are closed as it looking within for an answer to the question]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/462627966_3100949370063897_4566798335837688558_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=gfh95rzi_rwQ7kNvwEHqSa6&_nc_oc=AdnrFh1361hw-PJqxDyjC9RJTd3rUrPnWSA-cWMUUCujCAyoSnN7DkcAkUJhKkI2RGY&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfMuyt8Km1XI-VgwCQJ7OkQV8i_kWt8XZNynj2mkc_AqLQ&oe=68609C0A)
![ADHD Awareness Month: Debunking 5 myths… 😮
🧠Myth: Everyone has ADHD these days.
🩷 Fact: ADHD is not a "trend”, it's a neurodevelopmental difference found in 5 to 7% of the global population. Awareness is leading to increased diagnosis mainly due to women and people of the global majority having been missed.
🧠Myth: ADHD is just an excuse.
🩷Fact: ADHDers have different brains both structurally and functionally, particularly in areas related to attention and impulse control – no excuses there, 100% real.
🧠Myth: You can sit still so you can’t possibly have ADHD.
🩷Fact: There are 3 types of ADHD: Inattentive, Hyperactive, and Combined (both). And, while some ADHDers report physical restless, others experience internal and/or emotional restlessness.
🧠Myth: Just try harder to pay attention.
🩷Fact: ADHD isn’t about not paying attention, it’s about regulating attention. ADHDers often hyperfocus on tasks they enjoy but struggle with others.
🧠Myth: You’ll grow out of it at some point.
🩷Fact: ADHD is a lifelong condition. Around 60% of children with ADHD continue to experience symptoms into adulthood, affecting work, relationships, and daily life.
I was diagnosed in 2023 and it was such a light-bulb moment. I hope that by raising awareness, we can make workplaces more neuroinclusive to ADHDers and neurodivergent folks at large.
🧠What is another myth you’d like to debunk?
#ADHDAwareness #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergence #Neuroinclusion #BeYouBelong #Freelancing #Multipotentialite #HumanInProgress #Storyteller #Authenticity
[Image description: In an attempt to slow down her AHDH brain, Solène is sitting on a boat cruising along the Dubai Marina. She is wearing a long flowy dress black with yellow, light-brown, and pink flowers, black sandals, and matching sunglasses. She is staring in the distance as if looking for answers]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/462077387_930458892440393_5268367507338192418_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=mxgC4eVHvYoQ7kNvwFDHW9r&_nc_oc=Adnab9knmtEvdrmXo2JXP4LAwpp-702tx2SLe71_Y1tQn9URJ7F6U6Q6sjLL04H5XVM&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfPbLMTk7hIyFumqkEW1Ey2jEMXIEOmkboci1_MFjOwv-Q&oe=6860AD37)
![Are you or anyone you know based in Dubai? ☀️
After a lot of (over?)thinking, I’ve decided to launch the Be You. Belong. Community!
It’s the community I was looking for when I first moved here: a low-key place to feel less alone in our beautiful city of steel.
We’re starting with 3 things:
• Community Circle Conversations online
• Wellbeing Walks (once it’s less hot!)
• Chilled Creative Workshops
The best way to get involved is to join the WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BaYjtdOy8dAG3u22RrD5m6
Check out the first few events on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/be-beyond-borders-39327840213
And… find out more by dialing into my interview on Dubai Eye 103.8 radio (Whaaaaaat?! I know, pinch me) this Monday at 3pm local time on the ARN Play app or via: https://www.dubaieye1038.com/player/
This is the very beginning and I’m ~terrified~ excited. So, how can you help (if you’d like to)?
• Sign-up for an event… or many 😉
• Share the links with everyone you know
• Say hi, tag someone or send a word of wisdom or encouragement below
#BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Freelancing #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Authenticity #HumanInProgress
[Image Description: Be You. Belong. logo with a light-blue background and an imaginary animal that looks like a unicorn to some, a sheep or cat to others. It’s black and white and super cuuuuute]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/469600309_18363098920142736_2121015360383672189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=qZMl7x5e39IQ7kNvwGzQ5dR&_nc_oc=AdlppjlIk12yR6PyhPnwasmSAjFU66tmb60my52fARzLmEq8Zu0wrxZPJZRL_wjr_YQ&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfPoya_h6v8yaTVfCnZZ-7qlLkp0tgf6sHjJPAEQmmdeJw&oe=6860C676)
![So much has happened… This two-month Eurotrip is a whirlwind and I’m here for it🌀
I’ve been a bit quiet on here over the last few weeks, so I thought I’d share some highlights:
✨ Filmed for a short film project I’ve been working on for a while in London together with the wonderful @iamisaacharvey , @the_stanley_studio and @emjadehames
✨ Facilitated a Neurodiversity and Inclusion workshop for @chanelofficial ‘s Global People & Organisation Leadership Team in Paris.
✨ Delivered a Neurodiversity Awareness session for @alpinef1team in Enstone.
✨ Published my 5th book: a colouring eBook about emotions, together with @thebpdbunch [LINK IN The BPD Bunch BIO]
✨ Joined a social gathering with @joyfullydifferentuk and Curious Beings in Brighton.
✨ Held various mentoring sessions on @preply
✨ Caught up with family, started sorting my childhood belongings in Normandy and voted for the tense French elections, what a relief…
Among all this, the thing I’m most grateful for are the amazing people I’ve caught up with along the way 💙
To name a few… @anaisanglaret @anglaretphilippe @aliceanglaret Fiona @liviabonhoure @angela_codruta Stéphane, Grégoire, @othenti_k @fanny__marais Rachel, Séverine, Matthew, @elodjikopasta @lespielbergdukb @marjo.pi Kelly, @nour_bo7 @alice_reeves @markblake222 @consultingwithkerr @_stephaniecr_
#BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Freelancing #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Authenticity #HumanInProgress #Projects](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/469601306_18363094453142736_8927617508778933438_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=Mku3lqbxT_8Q7kNvwHl9V8F&_nc_oc=AdluHPCC70GGKGUYmKePCpj0DiltfDBefjpoEKJ2EEcQA3a9WBWKwIQRESU9q000Tsk&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfNCi-_AcOv8gIcf1Cd4hndfa7KIeqm5rZOz0pq1yUQxxw&oe=6860CB1F)
![I’ve learned so much from taking improv classes 🎭💙
Here are some of the principles that have really resonated with me:
1️⃣ Say ‘yes and…’
2️⃣ Listen to each other
3️⃣ Allow yourself to fail
4️⃣ Play the game(s)
5️⃣ Have fun !!!
These extend beyond the theatre, to all parts of life because let’s honest… we’re all improvising and making it up as we go along.
In the words of Stephen Colbert: “Life is an improvisation. You have no idea what’s going to happen next and you are mostly just making things up as you go along.”
Thank you SO MUCH to all my fellow improvisers: @gurusito_ @reemstateyeh @susannahphotography @lailsclarke @angelamaofficial @_helenfarmer_ Kripa, Carolina, Chris, Steiner, Naftali, and Constanza! Congrats for smashing Level 2 Technique!! Thank you also to our teacher @fredericobeja and to @courtyardplayhouse … Aaaaand to all the kind friends who came to watch our showcase 🎭💙
#BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Freelancing #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Authenticity #HumanInProgress #Improv
[Image Description: Multiple images and one video of improv performers and friends at the theatre during the showcase]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/447984419_18337409077142736_8854542998711839997_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=0Tpl0puW6mcQ7kNvwHYX3xO&_nc_oc=AdkAeJblCdTqnA6dMSmZ7-Htw61a7kq72505g48H3etkmO8gWsrc8Sjjb9Ivx2ILhvw&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfN317wTHUogIaCpM6Ja1rDPk2K3bDNQsYAMOQ8Elv4kcA&oe=6860BBDF)
![I’ve started tutoring in public speaking, storytelling, and communication skills 📣
If you’re preparing for a job interview, a presentation, a speech, or just want to practice your conversational skills, I’d love to help!
Find me on the platform @preply
According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, 75% of people rank fear of public speaking as number one.
On a scale of 1 (lowest) to 10 (highest), how much does public speaking scare you?
#BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Freelancing #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Authenticity #HumanInProgress #PublicSpeaking #Presenting #CommunicationSkills
[Image Description: Event in a large room with several people blurry in the foreground and Solène presenting on the top left-hand side corner. She is wearing a black dress, black tights, and a long light blue scarf. She has mid-length wavy light-brown hair and is holding a microphone]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/469538386_18363087817142736_8615708926416322583_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=E7SFrXQiH4MQ7kNvwGvq68n&_nc_oc=Adn44e9xV87KM1YxOT67dlcZyYD9ZRU-Hc9ywsN526HYR7e43tj9IEv4iMfSyaRYx5A&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfNldj-aFWMoDoTWA_038YWrwYVV83QZRDR58NYrW7pwew&oe=6860D187)
![Today, I held my first meditation class 🧘♀️💕
A few weeks ago, I became a certified meditation teacher thanks to @karmayogadubai and @ozge_rturk
As someone who was very resistant when my DBT therapist first mentioned the word “mindfulness”, it blows my mind.
Mindfulness and meditation have been a significant part of my recovery journey and daily practice.
Meditation has countless proven benefits:
• Improves sleep
• Helps with depression and anxiety
• Enhances brain health
• Eases pain
• Decreases blood pressure
If you’d like to practice meditation, get in touch. You can also check out my profile and the meditations I’ll be adding onto @insighttimer : https://insighttimer.com/bebeyondborders
Do you meditate? 🧘♀️💕
#BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Freelancing #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Authenticity #HumanInProgress #Meditation #Mindfulness
[Image Description: Picture of Solène holding her meditation teacher certificate. She is kneeling down on some white and pink cushions and wearing a grey crop top and black and grey leggings. She has mid-length light brown hair and a broad smile]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/469667537_18363087124142736_5124641472876314821_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=NNdvTkU7yx4Q7kNvwG3u-C5&_nc_oc=AdlGRpEHvK3u4cdu33DCcGZ_noNqlrKjQAzNIDbbknBMwcq3w6LpBiOLqfOCjC2Le04&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfNoSUJoPkWXL0fWUofrk_BAI0a-UgbHCj6LtKSjVSWFKw&oe=6860A794)
![This week I lost my biggest client, for reasons outside of my control.
As a full-time freelancer this is a HUGE setback 😩
It startled me deeply. My thoughts spiralled and I found myself going down an old and familiar rabbit hole… “What a failure you are. You better give up and go back to a “real” job. This is never gonna work out.” I felt utterly lost.
How did I get unstuck?
1️⃣ Smashed a few essential urgent and important work tasks
2️⃣ Listened to a meditation on acceptance, noticing my thoughts and emotions
3️⃣ Painted a few canvas for the ‘symptoms of BPD series’ I’m working on
4️⃣ Went for a swim to reconnect with my body and letting go of some of the fear
5️⃣ Reached out to a few friends to get different perspectives
Just thought I’d share in case it might be helpful. How do you navigate such setbacks?
#BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Freelancing #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Authenticity #HumanInProgress
[Image Description: Poker table at the Museum of Illusions, surrounded by mirrors. It makes it look as though there are five Solènes dressed in the same colourful dress playing against each other. A reminder that we win some, we loose some…]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/469556760_18363086125142736_7222705804676641713_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=y5W5-UjstMwQ7kNvwGVSu-B&_nc_oc=Adm1xf24wO_wUBOVoEC2q5mbtAMaU6-2lcP8q58mquSKmD5KFGgrqQh2-Iiu6yhj9Dk&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfOj7-ukxIf262lF7HOrXnbDHLEDmSOnrPbXp76Mp1vtcw&oe=6860C171)
![Aren’t you afraid of what people will think of you?! 😱 So many asked me when I started talking openly about my BPD & ADHD.
Well, yeah… BUT…
• What if I could help people?
• What if I could contribute to breaking stigma and changing the narrative?
• What if I could finally be… me?
These “what if” questions led me to what I do today. Easy? Nope. But SO worth it.
This week I held two webinars through Powered by Diversity about:
1. Living on the Borderline (BPD)
2. Mental Health & Inclusion
Here is some of the feedback:
“The positivity you have shared is so valuable. Thank you.”
“The session made me feel like I’m not alone and there is so much help out there.”
“So positive to hear about thriving - thank you. It gave me hope for my daughter’s future.”
Do you talk openly about mental health? If not, what’s holding you back?
#BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Freelancing #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Authenticity #HumanInProgress
[Image Description: Solène’s new headshot. She is wearing a black t-shirt and has long wavy light brown hair]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/469572046_18363084817142736_222603891814287983_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=ryNJzl0MM5YQ7kNvwHJYFID&_nc_oc=AdnvqFFAhtgg76HSo_U8CAhJo9gOFWIlcc2vrAjglyBk7O9Fbhe7WRymKDGLEEjsP3E&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfPmTa46N1i5mfyEuKMBn-QkD4EM0K_5Q15f2wiPu1O7Vg&oe=6860AD0A)
![💟 May is Borderline Awareness Month 💟
Borderline Personality Disorder (BDP) is a mental health condition that impacts emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal relationships, and sense of identity.
As many of you know, I was diagnosed with BPD just over 3 years ago, though I’ve lived with the symptoms for so much longer. Decades of masking and suffering.
When I was first diagnosed, I only told my hubby and family. I was convinced I’d never open up, especially in the workplace. But a lot has changed since…
I wanted to break the stigma and change the narrative, bring hope in the darkness, and help those who find themselves where I was back then… at rock bottom.
So, I added my voice to those of the many wonderful people in the community, particularly @thebpdbunch - I’m beyond grateful and now I know that we are not alone, even when it feels like it.
Three years on, I’ve been asked to speak about BPD for 1 hour in a corporate context. Thank you @pbdiversity for this opportunity to continue to raise awareness.
#BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Worldcitizen #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Belonging #Freelancing #BPD #BorderlinePersonalityDisorder
[Image description: Black background with the date 8 May, a calendar icon, the talk title “Living on the Borderline” and a profile picture of Solène smiling and looking up]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/469715865_18363083875142736_5680467267553879107_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=24LwzdBZlgMQ7kNvwGhCrtj&_nc_oc=Adle-dcjw3rTtMTfSObIgkHHNz5rOHnf7HQt5fQ4jAS2El_EIGLwQnHWq5oV-5__pWI&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfPSOxJJ959lPhDGmWmflChlOtDX_CxyZ0VlIf0vnV6G6Q&oe=6860C123)
![How hard can it be to voice your opinions and concerns at the risk of upsetting others?
So. Damn. Hard.
💇♀️ Exhibit A: I’m at the hairdresser’s for a trim. He cuts 4 times more hair than asked and convinces me to get layers. I don’t dare to refuse and even end the appointment by saying “I love it” with tears in my eyes.
🤦♀️ Exhibit B: I’m working on a project with a friend and sense we aren’t equally involved and excited. After endless overthinking and countless edits, I finally let them know. They react defensively and end up quitting. I regret it immediately and feel awful.
In interpersonal relationships, we talk about 3 pillars:
1️⃣ The relationship
2️⃣ The objective(s)
3️⃣ Our self-respect
See I’m someone who has wholeheartedly focused on relationships for decades.
Honouring my values and self-respect seems so foreign, but it was the theme of my week…
I’m oddly grateful for the learnings that have come with it, including the reminder that when choosing one of the pillars, we must be aware of and accept the impact it might have on others. Thank you @xannibelle 🙏
In Exhibit A, I focused on the relationship at the expense of the objective (so unhappy with my new haircut…) and my own self-respect.
In Exhibit B, I focused on the self-respect at the expense of the objective (continuing the project with my friend) and the relationship.
Does this resonate with you? Any exhibits you’d like to share? 🙃
#BeYouBelong #Freelancing #Storyteller #Multipotentialite #Authenticity #ChallengingConversations #InterpersonalRelationships #HumanInProgress
[Image Description: Am I seeing double? The photo shows 2 Solène: one real deal and one as a reflection in the mirror. She is wearing a black and white print dress and long earrings. She’s grimacing upon seeing her new strangely layered haircut. Her hair is light-brown, mid-length, and wavy]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/469618296_18363082936142736_7540460540178320547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=VOUbbYNmofsQ7kNvwGKQbxM&_nc_oc=AdmZ8-DF81aAtYuewMLUrrCiJiMk9oPCpAh0y-zb0mfqe5gQdgmnuLR51LcqEZM3QIU&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfPXzjF7i_wBOtsby718J-oNUuApMG73r-VBhA9XnJXZug&oe=6860C59A)
![Who are you, really? 🧿
Such a tough question, because…
• Identity is multifaceted - made up of multiple puzzle pieces
• Identity is partially hidden - like an iceberg, only parts of us are known to us
• Identity evolves - we’re constantly changing and becoming
But without knowing who we are, how could we possibly be who we are?
I’ve found that understanding my core values and writing down a list of what makes me me has helped tremendously. How about you?
#BeYouBelong #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Worldcitizen #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Belonging #Freelancing
[Image description: Beautiful Seychelles beach view with blue sky and white sand. A few clouds are visible in the distance. Solène is standing on the beach turning her back to the camera and looking at the view. She is wearing a black t-shirt and jean shorts]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/468534209_18361821394142736_4089990564793634754_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=IWvNN5R-JcsQ7kNvwEGPLX6&_nc_oc=AdltU6WHGHuX_nwRrbpdF_UQ4rO0z-Mj1rqr9G3MTepC40Xd8NP9W5h7qqYS04976Fs&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfOb47PSLHAF7ERUuBFmw21huaVdEwJUeY4ai8pt1oaIig&oe=6860C1E1)
![Stuck… What about slowing down instead of rushing to the next thing?🌻
This week I found myself with some spare time and had no idea what to do with it. Quietness and boredom are extremely uncomfortable for my ADHD brain.
The pull to constantly be DOING combined with fear and aversion for just BEING are deeply rooted within. But what if I tried something different this time?
So, I painted, reconnected with awesome people, and took extra time to do the things on my list. I even started preparing for a client presentation due in May (who even is this person?! 🤣)
Point is, I left the door open. It was uncomfortable and hasn’t yielded any magical outcome (yet?), but it made me feel grateful. This time and space to ask myself what comes next is a gift and a luxury.
I might start a local community here in Dubai around mental health and creativity and/or study graphic design. Any thoughts or tips are welcome!
In the meantime, you’ll find me painting the 9 symptoms of BPD and trying REALLY HARD to quieten the inner critic that keeps telling me I’m an aspiring artist without talent.
The healing and growth journey never ends 💛
#BeYouBelong #Freelancing #Anxiety #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #Worldcitizen #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Belonging
[Image Description: Picture of Solène sitting at a table in front of a painting called ‘Emptiness’ with a green background and a person-like black shadow with puzzle pieces creating holes within their core. Solène is wearing a black and white dress and holding her chin with her hand]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/468637401_18361818028142736_5287565131892205196_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=8I_NRMBiKBMQ7kNvwG38sr2&_nc_oc=AdlP865r3K7qZJkMjYOuW6OjmNzok6i8FOElItvuOOtnJcGsPWqfoRimbXrXpmFD4Tk&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfOKPEw81A4aB1uT4Fdx3b1IgYz9rRUxZpX5qy5iMBlQPA&oe=6860CEEE)
![From awareness to acceptance and appreciation of neurodiversity…
I’m on that journey, so it’s been wonderful to hear from so many people embracing their unique minds and spiky profiles during @neurodiversityweek ✨🎊
Here are some of my takeaways:
• We don’t have a common language yet: Neurodiversity and neurodivergence are so often used interchangeably, but these terms have different meanings. An aligned language will bring us closer together.
• Boxes are not all bad: While some are constraining, some can be steps towards equity, and others a place to belong. The difference? Whether we choose our boxes or are put in them by others.
• Advocating for a group can’t be at the expense or stigmatisation of another: Our identities are complex and intertwined, we must honour and celebrate all intersectionalities with and around ourselves to be truly inclusive.
What are your takeaways? Looking forward to taking all these learnings and more and to celebrating neurodiversity year round 💛
#BeYouBelong #Freelancing #Anxiety #MentalHealth #Neurodiversity #BPD #ADHD #Worldcitizen #Multipotentialite #Storyteller #Belonging
[Image Description: Picture of Solène taken by the amazing @laura_jane_dale in front of Leake Street’s colourful graffiti art walls. Solène is jumping and laughing. She’s wearing a short black dress, black tights, and bright pink earrings. She has long wavy light-brown hair]](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t39.30808-6/468614863_18361816561142736_5668395283735748305_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=fMm3c8wXXecQ7kNvwGnuUHP&_nc_oc=AdkJ9wTHxGvbLnmPdY4HVl2xGLmbxHwqtRbAzvNYcsysMSdz4VaYXT-dpaXDcmVAr3M&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=bBYqqHlLTUcpzDtil6-MXQ&oh=00_AfOWCiW-NwPZPE5Vzhr4URlj4lmbYUhOyFCCSgYxEbSVcA&oe=6860CB1B)