Navigating Self-Perception and Self-Worth In Relationships with Dr. Donna Oriowo

In this episode of No Ordinary Love, Roselynn welcomes the brilliant Dr. Donna Oriowo, a renowned therapist specializing in the intersection of mental and sexual health for Black women. Dr. Donna shares her unique insights on self-esteem and its profound impact on romantic relationships. Drawing from her book, Cocoa Butter and Hair Grease: A Self-Love Journey Through Hair and Skin, Dr. Donna discusses how colorism and texturism have influenced self-perception and self-worth.

Key Topics:

• The Journey to Self-Esteem: Dr. Donna delves into how her personal experiences with colorism and textures shaped her research and focus on self-esteem. She explains the differences between self-concept, self-esteem, and self-love, and how understanding these distinctions can foster healthier relationships.
• Impact of Self-Esteem on Relationships: The conversation explores how our level of self-esteem influences the choices we make in selecting partners and navigating relationship dynamics. Dr. Donna emphasizes the importance of knowing one’s self-worth and how that reflects in the way we engage with others.
• Sexuality vs. Sex: Dr. Donna breaks down the difference between sex as a finite act and sexuality as an infinite expression of identity, and how these concepts play into how we connect with ourselves and others in relationships.
• Managing Low Self-Esteem in Partners: Roselynn and Dr. Donna discuss the challenges of being in a relationship with someone struggling with low self-esteem and the balance between supporting a partner and maintaining one’s own boundaries.

Hot Seat Question: The episode also features a Hot Seat Question where a listener is struggling with their partner’s deep-rooted self-esteem issues. Dr. Donna offers guidance on how to navigate this situation, focusing on understanding, patience, and the importance of recognizing each partner’s individual journey.

Takeaways:

• Self-esteem is more than just feeling good about yourself—it’s about understanding your worth in all aspects of life, including relationships.
• Navigating relationships with partners who have low self-esteem requires empathy, boundaries, and communication.
• Sexuality is a broad and infinite aspect of our identity, and it’s important to explore how it connects with our relationships and self-esteem.

Giveaway Alert! Be sure to follow No Ordinary Love on IG, TikTok, and Facebook @noordinarylovepod for a chance to win a copy of Dr. Donna Oriowo’s book, Cocoa Butter and Hair Grease: A Self-Love Journey Through Hair and Skin!

Tune in for a powerful conversation on self-love, self-esteem, and thriving relationships.