Almost everything is multisided – including the occurrences that give us pain. So, we asked some of the most enlightened folks in the community to share how they have harnessed their pain to help rather than hurt them.

Erika Eclectik

For the longest time, I would only draw when I was happy and in a good mood. I feel whatever energy I have on my soul ends up in my art. I used to feel badly thinking I could negatively impact someone’s mood with what I created. I only wanted to make people feel happy and calm. Read More>>

Lauren Donahue

For years, I thought I had to keep everything polished and positive—holding my struggles close to my heart and only showing the highlight reel. But I’ve learned that vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s the bridge to connection. Very recently, I started showing up more openly on social media, especially on TikTok, sharing real-time stories and moments I never would have shared before. Read More>>

Rachel Ye

I stopped hiding my pain the moment I realized it was never meant to be my cage — it was meant to be my catalyst. For years, I carried wounds quietly, thinking that if I just stayed busy, successful, or needed, I could outrun them. Read More>>