Today we’d like to introduce you to Nya Abernathy.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have been thinking about the concept of dignity for years, but the term came into view for me in 2016 after diving into dr. Brené brown’s work on shame and vulnerability. It made sense that this thing that I’d been thinking and talking about was in fact dignity, and it colored everything I wanted for myself and others. In 2016, I was pregnant, preparing to leave my job at the time, and wanting so badly to “do” this “dignity thing”, but I had no idea how. After trying various things, lots of conversations, prayers, and time, I’ve gotten more clear about what dignity is, what’s its effect, and how I can help people understand and engage with it all (especially during a pandemic!). Webinars, writing, speaking and content creation is how I’m educating and encouraging people in the way of dignity.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The journey from dream to reality is never easy. Getting to clarity on dignity and the effect it can have in relationships wasn’t something I could force. Navigating how I would educate people wasn’t simple either. Time has been a huge component of this journey. I want to be writing more, but my current season of family life amid a pandemic means making the time and space for long-form writing is a challenge. To pivot, I’ve been doing short-form writing and more videos on instagram. I’ve gotten focused on making meaningful connections. What I’m doing is different than a brick-and-mortar or a product-based business; this is an idea about relationships. It’s powerful, though, and the feedback that I get consistently is that it is desperately needed in all facets of life. So, I’m determined to figure out how to deliver it.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with The Dignity Effect – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
Essentially, I’m in the business of peacemaking! Dignity is the great equalizer, the marker of common humanity. I’m in the business of helping individuals see dignity in themselves first, thereby entering a peacemaking process with self. In turn they then see dignity in others and are able to forge peace in their relationships. Whether it’s a written piece, a facilitated workshop, a posted video, a podcast appearance, or a speaking engagement, I’m looking to make peace through the revelation of dignity. Specifically I teach social-emotional living (better known as adult sel) and create learning and practice space for unity-oriented peacemaking. I’m excited to be hosting what I think of as a “dignity party”: you show up and are safe while stretching past your comfort zone, you are called in and cared for, you can be emotionally authentic and accepted.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
COVID-19 has me holding future plans pretty loosely, but with hope. I really enjoy doing podcasts. The conversation around dignity can be beautiful and eye-opening. I’m a storytelling teacher at heart, and that comes out in how I communicate. I’m working on a few book ideas and look forward to booking additional speaking engagements – even if they are all virtual! I’d love to have cohorts walking through the learning & practice of dignity, of social-emotional living, and of unity-oriented peacemaking. That could be a catalyst for a ripple effect that will be felt in our families, in our communities, and eventually throughout the Earth.
Contact Info:
- Email: thedignityeffect@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedignityeffect/
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