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Let’s get one thing straight: I love fireworks as much as the next overly scheduled woman running on caffeine and generational trauma. But this Fourth of July, we’re not talking about backyard barbecues and red-white-and-blue jello shots. No, friend. We’re talking about a very different kind of freedom—the kind that comes from laying down your emotional mop and stepping off the hamster wheel of doing the most.

I’m talking about the freedom to not be the CEO of your marriage, your household, your kid’s extracurricular calendar, and your damn group chat.

Because here’s what I know: you are tired. Not just yawn-and-stretch tired. I’m talking the soul-sucked, “Why am I crying while loading the dishwasher again?” kind of tired. You’ve held it together through career curveballs, toddler tantrums, and your in-laws’ unsolicited opinions on everything from screen time to the state of your Tupperware drawer. And somewhere along the way, you stopped being the main character in your own life.

Sound familiar?

Maybe you’ve been calling it “burnout.” Maybe you’ve been calling it “just tired.” But let’s call it what it really is: emotional withdrawal. You know, that thing where your husband hugs you and your body goes stiff like you’re being arrested? Or when your kid spills milk and you feel nothing—not even annoyance—just pure, unfiltered numbness? That’s not you being cold. That’s your nervous system throwing up a ‘closed for business’ sign because it’s been short-circuiting for years.

And the cruel irony? You’re successful. You’ve got the job, the family, the life that looks great on paper. Which means the shame gets louder. You should be grateful, right? But deep down, something is screaming, “I want me back.”

So this Independence Day, I’m not handing you another to-do list or one more journaling prompt. I’m giving you permission. Permission to put the damn armor down.

Independence isn’t waking up at 5AM to meditate and meal prep while everyone else sleeps. It’s not being the last to bed and the first to rise. It’s not a badge of honor to be the last woman standing at the sacrifice of your own sanity.

Independence is saying, “Nope, not doing that,” without a 10-minute apology monologue. It’s giving your kid an iPad so you can sit in silence with a lukewarm coffee and your own damn thoughts. It’s redefining rest as a right, not a reward you have to earn.

So start small. Ten minutes of stillness a day. One non-negotiable boundary (like laying in starfish position and refusing to get up until someone brings you snacks). Ask for help even when your voice shakes. Choose one thing this week that’s just for you—and when guilt shows up, tell it to take a hike.

You are not ungrateful. You’re unfinished. And baby, it’s time to rebuild—you.

Need support? I got you. Head to outsidethenormcounseling.com/resources for free guides that meet you where you are, no shame attached.

Happy Freedom Day, girl. Now go reclaim your damn time. 💥

Useful links:

• Join our FaceBook Page – Empowered and Unapologetic
• Follow me on Instagram
• Check out the new website! https://veronicacisneros.org/
• Outside The Norm Counseling – 951 395 3288 call to schedule an appointment today!
• 5 Things that are Killing your Marriage Free Guide available at www.veronicacisneros.org

Meet Veronica Cisneros

As a leading authority in women’s empowerment and a fierce advocate for building strong networks, Veronica is your go-to guru for turning fears into victories, struggles into strengths, and doubts into boundless opportunities.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 plus years; empowering high-achieving women in business to conquer both professional heights and personal fulfillment. She doesn’t do bandaids!
Veronica has a unique approach to overcoming obstacles and smashing through the glass ceilings that loom over ambitious women. With her arsenal of practical tools, actionable strategies, and unwavering support, Veronica doesn’t just help women succeed in their careers – she helps them thrive in every facet of their lives.

But Veronica’s expertise isn’t just theoretical – it’s personal. With over 24 years of marriage, three daughters, and a soaring career, Veronica embodies the resilience and determination needed to navigate life’s challenges. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Group Private Practice Owner, of Outside The Norm Counseling, Marriage Coach, and the voice behind the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, Veronica effortlessly guides women to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Veronica is more than an expert – she’s a partner in transformation, turning mundane relationships into true connections. With her relatable charm and infectious humor, Veronica illuminates the path for women who refuse to settle for anything less than success in both business and relationships. Through practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and her trademark wit, Veronica empowers every woman to cultivate unbreakable bonds without sacrificing their ambitions.

Whether you listen to the podcast, join the free Facebook community, or do the Workshop,  you’re in the right place. Let’s do this together!

Thanks for listening!

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