The Story Behind “Be Brave”
TL;DR
"Be Brave" is my anthem for cutting ties with toxic friendships and narcissistic relationships. Born from personal experience with emotional manipulation, this song is about finding courage, reclaiming your worth, and openly embracing therapy—even when it challenges social norms around mental health.
The Story Behind "Be Brave"
Breaking Free from Toxic Friendships
I wrote Be Brave because emotional abuse doesn’t just happen in romantic relationships—sometimes it comes from friends you trust.
For years, I downplayed the damage, stuck in denial about how deeply the manipulation affected me:
“Lost myself trying to maintain the insane,
Manipulated by your lies on replay.”
Eventually, I had no choice but to face reality:
The friend I thought had my back was actually a narcissist, exploiting my kindness for control.
Recognizing Red Flags
When Your "Friend" Becomes the Predator
Narcissists thrive by hiding behind masks, slowly eroding your confidence until you doubt your own reality. In my case, the signs were there—clear yet deceptively easy to ignore:
Constant manipulation disguised as concern.
Gaslighting and lies twisting truths to gain power.
Emotional cruelty hidden in "jokes" and subtle digs.
The breaking point came when I heard the words:
“The last words I heard from you are I’m not worth it.”
At that moment, denial was no longer possible.
My Path to Healing
Therapy, EMDR, and Breaking Stigma
Leaving toxic friendships isn't as simple as walking away—it requires courage, commitment, and often professional support.
For me, therapy played a huge role. Specifically, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy changed my life by helping me:
Face deep-rooted emotional trauma.
Rewire negative self-beliefs and thought patterns.
Rediscover my strength, worth, and identity.
There's still a stigma around therapy, especially when talking openly about mental health. But honestly, seeking help was the bravest, healthiest decision I ever made.
Speaking Out
Why Silence Isn't Strength
The chorus of Be Brave became my personal anthem:
“Not gonna take this wounded heart to my grave,
Wanna face it, I’ll be brave.”
We’re taught that keeping silent about our emotional wounds equals strength. But silence protects only one person—the abuser. True bravery means speaking up, even if society labels it uncomfortable or taboo.
Your story is valid.
Your voice matters.
You deserve to heal out loud.
Why This Song Matters
Your Story Deserves to Be Told
This song is for anyone who's ever:
Felt trapped or silenced by emotional abuse.
Questioned their worth after toxic friendships or relationships.
Considered therapy but hesitated due to stigma.
Healing isn’t always linear or easy—but it’s worth it. You deserve peace, self-respect, and the freedom to live fully.
Listen & Share
Take the First Step Toward Healing
If Be Brave resonates with you, please listen and share it. You never know who else might find the courage they need through your willingness to speak openly about emotional health.
🎧 Listen now: Be Brave on Spotify
📢 Share your story (let’s break the stigma): https://www.instagram.com/tinasmithmusic/
You're not alone. Let’s talk openly, heal together, and above all—be brave.