Clarity, Community, and Why “We” Matters in Healthy Humaning

I’m Deana—pronounced DAY-awn-uh, like “I spent the day on a farm”—and I’m the human behind the Healthy Humaning Institute. I’ve poured my heart into building this space, and today I want to clarify something close to my heart: the words I use when I talk about us.

You see, I’m a huge fan of clarity. It’s my favorite! And while Healthy Humaning is built on authenticity, I know there’s a fine line between inspiration and misrepresentation. That’s why I want to take a moment to explain what I mean when I say things like “I” and “we.”

Because if there’s one thing I want you to have here, it’s the ability to make fully informed decisions for yourself.

Why I Say “I” (And Why I’ll Keep Saying It)

Healthy Humaning Institute is a one-woman show—at least for now. Every post, program, and idea starts with me.

I’ve been told that saying “I” and “me” too often can feel self-centered or turn people away. And while I understand the concern, I know why I do it, and I stand by it.

  1. It’s Authentic to Me.
    I spent years drowning in the “shoulds” of business ownership—trying to make everything sound bigger, more polished, more marketable. It almost stopped me in my tracks. By saying “I,” I’m giving myself permission to do this my way.

  2. It’s Easier to See Someone Else Go First.
    When you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, or hopeless, imagining yourself in a better place feels impossible. Sometimes, the easiest first step is seeing someone else who’s done it. That’s why I share my journey. If I can help you believe that change is possible, then I’ve done my job.

  3. Because I Believe in You.
    Every time I say “I,” I’m really saying I see you. I see where you are, and I believe in where you’re going. Sharing my story isn’t about making it all about me—it’s about showing you what’s possible for you.

What “We” Means in Healthy Humaning

Sometimes, I say “we.” And “we” means different things, depending on the moment:

  1. You and Me.
    If you’re here—reading my words, participating in this space—then we are in this together. Even if you never work with me directly, your presence means you’re part of the Healthy Humaning journey.

  2. The Collective Vision.
    Healthy Humaning Institute may just be me right now, but the vision is so much bigger. Someday, it will be a movement—a thriving, inclusive community filled with people who share the values of growth, connection, and authenticity. When I say “we,” I’m holding space for that future.

  3. The Support System Behind Me.
    I didn’t build Healthy Humaning alone. My partners, kids, friends, clients, and community have all played a role. Their insights, feedback, and love are woven into every piece of this work. “We” honors them, too.

  4. The People Who Choose Healthy Humaning.
    If you’ve made the intentional choice to engage with Healthy Humaning—to embrace its principles and live by them—then you are part of the “we.” Together, we’re building a movement of humans committed to living intentionally, authentically, and compassionately.

Clarity Is the Foundation of Trust

At its core, Healthy Humaning is about creating better lived experiences—for ourselves and for others. That starts with trust. It starts with honesty.

So let me be clear:

  • This is a one-woman show (for now).

  • I’m sharing my lived experiences to help you feel seen, understood, and inspired.

  • When I say “we,” it’s always with intention—never to mislead or overinflate.

Healthy Humaning isn’t perfect. It’s a work in progress, just like all of us. But what I can promise is this: I will always strive for transparency, so you can make decisions that feel right for you.

What’s Next for Healthy Humaning?

Someday, Healthy Humaning will grow into a community, a movement, and a legacy far beyond what I can imagine today. For now, it’s me, you, and the support system behind us. Together, we’re planting the seeds for something extraordinary.

Thank you for being here, for sharing this space, and for trusting me to walk with you.

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