Dr. Sara Kuburic on Trauma, Self-Care & Mindfulness
Insights from the Millennial Therapist
In the realm of mental health and personal growth, conversations that peel back the layers of the human experience are both rare and invaluable.
I had the profound pleasure of delving into the complexities of mental health, personal growth, and the transformative power of self-awareness with Dr. Sara Kuburic, also known as the Millennial Therapist.
Sara, the author of "It's On Me," shared her personal journey and professional insights, offering a unique perspective on navigating identity, moral trauma, and relationships.
Our conversation began with Sara recounting a pivotal moment in her early 20s, during a casual catch-up in a bar in LA. When asked by a friend if she was happy, Sara's world came to a standstill.
Her emotional response to such a simple question marked the beginning of her journey toward self-discovery. This moment underscored the importance of high-quality questioning—a theme that resonated deeply with me. Sara and I discussed how questions without expectations can lead to significant self-reflection and growth, emphasizing that true change starts with self-awareness and an unwavering commitment to honesty.
Sara's narrative took us back to her childhood experiences in Bosnia and Serbia during times of war and her subsequent immigration to Canada. These formative years, though normalized within her community, played a crucial role in shaping her understanding of trauma and resilience.
It was fascinating to explore how these experiences contributed to her development and how becoming conscious of one's impact and direction in life is a journey that requires both time and safety.
One of the most striking insights Sara shared was that of the armchair metaphor—illustrating the human tendency to remain passive amidst existential threats. This metaphor served as a powerful reminder of the urgency of self-evolution and the agency we possess, despite past injustices, to carve out our path.
Throughout our discussion, the theme of surrounding oneself with the right people emerged as a critical factor in nurturing growth and self-development.
Sara stressed the importance of being selective with our relationships, highlighting how the people we choose to surround ourselves with can significantly shape our journey. This resonated with me, as I've observed the impact of community and support systems on personal growth firsthand.
Sara's insights into self-loss and her path to reclaiming her identity highlighted a universal truth: the journey to self-discovery is fraught with challenges, yet it is within these trials that growth occurs.
Her message of hope and empowerment is a beacon for those navigating their paths, encouraging honesty, vulnerability, and the courage to confront oneself.
Concluding our conversation, Sara's thoughts on the future and her ongoing projects, like the Phenomenological Society, painted a picture of a vibrant journey ahead, filled with philosophical exploration and a continued commitment to understanding the human condition.
My discussion with
was not only enlightening but also a reminder of the power we each hold in sculpting our destinies through self-awareness and meaningful connections.You can follow her on Instagram as the The Millennial Therapist or find her Substack Newsletter: Notes From My Phone.