A Review of Dervla McTiernan’s “What Happened to Nina”

Today I read Dervla McTiernan’s “What Happened to Nina?”

This is my Amazon Review:

“Dervla McTiernan’s “What Happened to Nina?” is an enthralling tale that plunges readers into a family’s desperate search for truth amid intense public and media scrutiny. The novel’s gradual narrative pace invites us to deeply connect with the characters, offering insight into their innermost thoughts and the extreme measures they’ll undertake for the sake of family.

Narrated through the eyes of its central figures, the story unfolds in layers, revealing a complex drama that mirrors real-life incidents, reminiscent of the heart-wrenching case of Gabrielle Venora Petito.

McTiernan masterfully crafts a narrative that not only captivates but also mirrors the societal pulse, where the distinction between fact and fiction is often obscured by those wielding influence.

More than a mystery, McTiernan’s work is a profound reflection on the impact of social media and public perception on contemporary justice. It’s a thought-provoking piece that challenges readers to contemplate the intricate web of human emotions and legal ethics.

Psychological underpinnings of parental unconditional forgiveness. 

 

The Banksia Foundation Awards are a Gateway to Recognition and Growth

Imagine a world where each victory in sustainability isn’t just a trophy on a shelf but a seed sown in fertile ground, growing into a garden of collaborative effort and shared wisdom. Winning the Banksia Award is akin to discovering a map to hidden treasure, not of gold, but of ideas and alliances. This prize has become the key to a new kingdom—a business that bridges islands of environmental groups and schools into a united continent of purpose. Here, in this land of collaboration, every conversation is a raindrop nourishing the soil, and every shared success, a bloom in an ever-growing garden of sustainable futures. In this narrative, the journey from accolade to action encapsulates the power of unity, turning individual achievements into collective progress.

 

The Banksia Foundation Awards, a prestigious recognition platform in Australia, not only spotlight leaders in sustainable development but also offer unparalleled benefits to its recipients. Winning a Banksia Award is more than an accolade; it’s a pathway to enhanced visibility, credibility, and a host of other advantages that catalyse both personal and organisational growth.

Elevating Visibility and Credibility

Securing a Banksia Award propels winners into the spotlight, significantly boosting their profile among peers and across the industry. This recognition serves as a testament to their commitment to sustainability and innovation, distinguishing them from competitors and elevating their reputation.

Boosting Morale and Motivation

The accolade also has a profound internal impact, uplifting the spirit and drive of teams. It acknowledges their hard work and dedication, fostering a culture of pride and continuous excellence.

Expanding Networks and Opportunities

Being part of the Banksia Awards alumni network opens doors to invaluable networking opportunities. It connects winners with industry leaders, potential collaborators, and like-minded innovators, paving the way for new ventures and partnerships.

Winning the Banksia Award has also enabled me to launch a new business aimed at uniting environmentally-focused groups and schools into a community of practice. This initiative fosters knowledge sharing, enhances collaborative learning, and accelerates the adoption of sustainable practices. By pooling resources and expertise, participants can tackle environmental challenges more effectively, innovate solutions, and create a stronger, more informed network committed to making a significant impact on both local and global scales.

Achieving Recognition and Validation

Above all, the Banksia Award serves as a powerful validation of the winner’s efforts and achievements in pushing the envelope of sustainability. It not only spotlights their successes but also sets a benchmark for others, inspiring a broader movement towards environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.

The Banksia Foundation Awards are more than just a trophy; they are a catalyst for growth, opportunity, and lasting impact in the realm of sustainability. Winning not only marks a milestone of achievement but also opens a vista of possibilities for future innovation and leadership.

#SustainabilityLeaders, #EcoInnovation, #GreenSchools, #CommunityOfPractice, #EnvironmentalImpact, #SustainableEducation, #ClimateAction, #EcoFriendlyInitiatives, #GreenBusinessLaunch, #EnvironmentalNetworking, #SustainableLiving, #EcoCollaboration, #GreenTechSolutions, #ClimateChangeWarriors, #EcoConsciousCommunity #BanksiaFoundationAwards

Beyond the Home Front. Supporting Third Parties Impacted by Domestic Violence

 

The ripple effects of domestic violence can reach unexpected shores, impacting individuals such as third party contractors who are professionally engaged in victims’ homes.

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that can extend its impact beyond personal relationships to professional realms, affecting individuals such as third parties engaged by victims. These professionals may find themselves unwittingly embroiled in the complexities and dangers of domestic violence situations. This blog post aims to offer advice on how to support third parties who, while carrying out their professional duties, become collateral damage in domestic violence scenarios.

Understanding the Unique Position of Third Party Contractors. 

Third party contractors, whether they are working on home repairs, technology installations, or providing any service within a home, can inadvertently witness or become involved in domestic abuse incidents. Their unique position as outsiders yet temporarily integrated into the household’s dynamics places them in potentially vulnerable and confusing situations.

Offering Support

  1. Acknowledge Their Experience: Recognise the impact that witnessing or becoming involved in such a situation can have on a contractor. They might experience shock, distress, or even fear for their own safety.
  2. Provide a Listening Ear: Offer them the opportunity to talk about their experience in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Listening can be a powerful form of support for someone who has unexpectedly found themselves affected by domestic violence.
  3. Advise on Professional Support: Encourage them to seek support from professionals who understand the complexities of domestic violence. This could include legal advice if they’re concerned about their obligations or safety, or counselling services to process their experiences.
  4. Inform Them About Resources: Many countries and regions have hotlines and support services for those affected by domestic violence, including witnesses. Providing information about these resources can be invaluable.
  5. Support Their Decisions: They may face difficult decisions, such as whether to report what they’ve witnessed. While you can provide information and support, it’s important to respect their autonomy and the decisions they make.
  6. Encourage a Safety Plan: If the third party contractor needs to continue working in the environment or similar situations, advise them on creating a safety plan. This could include identifying safe exits, keeping a phone handy, and having the contact details for local authorities or domestic violence support services.
  7. Promote Awareness and Training: For employers of contractors, providing training on recognising and safely responding to signs of domestic violence can be an invaluable tool in protecting their employees and supporting affected households responsibly.

The ripple effects of domestic violence can reach unexpected shores, impacting individuals such as third party contractors who are professionally engaged in victims’ homes. By offering understanding, support, and resources, we can help mitigate the impact on these unwitting participants in a domestic violence scenario. It’s essential to foster a culture of awareness, support, and safety that extends beyond the home, ensuring that all individuals affected by domestic violence, directly or indirectly, receive the support they need.

#SupportForContractors #DomesticViolenceAwareness #SafetyFirst #ProfessionalSupport #AwarenessAndAction

This is a guest post by Alex Reed. 

Alex is a passionate mental health advocate who uses their writing to bridge the gap between clinical psychology and everyday experiences.  Alex offers insights, advice, and comfort to those seeking understanding and solidarity. Alex believes in the power of shared stories to inspire healing and growth.

 

The Fine Line Between Giving and Over-Giving: Striking the Right Balance for Success 🌟

In the words of Zig Ziglar, “You can have everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”

This profound statement underpins the ethos of successful giving – a vital trait in both personal and professional realms. Yet, there exists a thin line between being a giver and inadvertently becoming a doormat. It’s a delicate balance, one that requires introspection and strategic thinking.

The Power of Giving 🤲

Giving, in its essence, is a powerful tool for success. It fosters a culture of mutual support and collaboration. By helping others, we often pave the way for our own success, creating networks of reciprocity and trust. This principle is especially resonant in leadership, where the ability to give – be it time, resources, or support – can significantly elevate a team or an organisation’s performance.

The Pitfalls of Over-Giving 😓

However, there’s a caveat. Givers can find themselves at the bottom of the success ladder if they fail to set boundaries. Without these limits, one risks burnout, being taken advantage of, or losing sight of their own goals and needs. Adam Grant, in his exploration of giver and taker dynamics, emphasises the necessity for givers to establish boundaries. This prevents them from depleting their resources – emotional, physical, and otherwise.

Drawing the Line 🚧

So, how does one draw the line? It starts with self-awareness and understanding one’s limits. It’s about recognising the difference between being helpful and overextending oneself. A crucial aspect is learning to say ‘no’ when necessary. It’s not about being less generous but about being smart with your generosity.

The Balanced Giver 🧘‍♂️

The ideal giver is one who knows how to give effectively. This means prioritising, choosing where and how to give in a way that adds value without draining personal resources. It’s about being strategic – helping others in a way that also aligns with one’s own goals and values.

Embrace Giving, Respect Limits 🔚

Giving is undoubtedly a pathway to success, but it must be practised with mindfulness and boundaries. As we navigate our roles as givers, let’s strive to maintain that delicate balance, ensuring that our generosity uplifts others as well as ourselves.

Have you ever felt like a doormat?
How do you set boundaries?

#StrategicGiving #MindfulLeadership #SuccessThroughSupport #BoundarySetting #EmpoweredGivers 🌍💼🛡️🤗📈

Redirecting Enablers. From Justification to Transformation

Enablers can shift from passive observers to active participants in the process of change

Enabling behaviour in the context of domestic violence is a complex issue, often rooted in a cycle of justification tied to past incidents. This blog post is dedicated to supporting those who find themselves in the role of an enabler, providing a guide to shift from a history-focused viewpoint to one that promotes accountability and positive change.

Acknowledging the Past Without Excusing the Present

The first step for enablers is to acknowledge the past without allowing it to serve as an excuse for current behaviour. It’s understandable that past challenges have shaped the present, but they should not be used to justify current harmful actions. Recognising this is crucial in setting the stage for real change.

The Importance of Growth Over Justification

Growth is a critical component of breaking the cycle of abuse. Enablers can play a pivotal role by stressing the need to learn from past mistakes. This perspective supports the development of a safer and healthier environment for everyone involved.

Consequences of Unchecked Behaviour

Enablers need to understand and communicate the potential consequences of not addressing abusive behaviour. It’s vital to convey that ignoring or excusing such actions can lead to serious ramifications, emphasising the urgency of addressing the issue.

Responsibility: The Keystone of Change

Encouraging responsibility is about helping individuals understand that they have the power to change their behaviour. Enablers can be instrumental by promoting an ethos of personal accountability.

Supporting Behavioural Change

Offering support is where enablers can truly make a difference. By providing encouragement and resources for individuals willing to make positive changes, enablers can facilitate a journey of transformation.

Professional Help: A Pathway to Progress

Seeking professional help is often necessary to break free from the cycle of abuse. Enablers can advocate for this by recommending therapy, counselling, or intervention programs, which are designed to provide strategies for moving beyond the past.

Consistency in Messaging

Finally, consistency is key. Enablers must consistently convey that while the past is acknowledged, it does not excuse harmful behaviour. This message helps to maintain focus on the present and the future, rather than being tethered to the history.

By embracing this approach, enablers can shift from passive observers to active participants in the process of change. It’s a path that leads away from the cycle of justification and towards a future where accountability and transformation are possible. This is not just about one individual; it’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change that can transform communities and save lives.

#BreakTheCycle #DomesticViolenceAwareness #SupportChange #AccountabilityMatters #EndDomesticViolence #EmpowerSurvivors #TransformationJourney #SeekHelp #PositiveChange #StopEnablingAbuse

This is a guest post by Alex Reed. 

Alex is a passionate mental health advocate who uses their writing to bridge the gap between clinical psychology and everyday experiences.  Alex offers insights, advice, and comfort to those seeking understanding and solidarity. Alex believes in the power of shared stories to inspire healing and growth.

Tradition and Turmoil and the Challenge of Navigating Mental Health in the Shadow of Farming Legacies

In the heart of traditional farming communities, the fabric of life is woven with values that have been passed down through generations. These traditions, especially the patriarchal inheritance of farms, have shaped the landscape of rural life. However, this scenario, where adherence to tradition comes at the cost of individual well-being and family harmony, is not uncommon. It’s a stark reminder of the need to evolve beyond patriarchal scenarios for the mental and emotional health of all involved.

Balancing tradition with the necessity of adapting to modern values that prioritise mental health and personal fulfillment is vital. Moving away from rigid, traditional expectations can foster environments where individuals feel valued and supported, irrespective of their role in family succession plans. For the sustainability of farming communities and the well-being of their members, embracing change and breaking the cycle of silence around mental health issues are crucial steps forward. By doing so, we can cultivate a future where tradition and well-being harmoniously coexist, ensuring that the legacy we leave is not just of the land, but of healthy, resilient communities.

#MentalHealthAwareness #FarmingLife #TraditionVsChange #FamilyDynamics #InheritanceStruggles #RuralMentalHealth #BreakingCycles #EmotionalWellbeing #LegacyPressure

This is a guest post by Alex Reed. 

Alex is a passionate mental health advocate who uses their writing to bridge the gap between clinical psychology and everyday experiences.  Alex offers insights, advice, and comfort to those seeking understanding and solidarity. Alex believes in the power of shared stories to inspire healing and growth.

The Unseen Accomplices. Understanding the Motivations of Domestic Violence Enablers

 

This is a blog post I wish I didn’t feel necessary to write.

Enablers need to understand the impact of their actions (or inactions) and be equipped with resources and support to make a change.

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that transcends cultural, economic, and social boundaries. While much attention is rightfully given to the perpetrators and victims, there is a third group that plays a critical role in the dynamics of domestic abuse — the enablers. These are the individuals who, knowingly or unknowingly, contribute to the perpetuation of abuse. Understanding their motivations and the personalities that commonly become enablers is crucial in the fight against domestic violence.

Motivations Behind Enabling Behaviour

  1. Denial and Minimisation: Some enablers refuse to acknowledge the severity of the situation. They may believe that the abuse is a one-time event or an anomaly, despite recurring patterns.
  2. Fear of Confrontation: Fear can paralyse enablers from taking action. They might fear retaliation from the abuser, disruption of family dynamics, or the unknown consequences of intervening.
  3. Dependency: Emotional or financial dependency on the abuser can motivate enablers to maintain the status quo. This dependency can cloud judgment and lead to rationalising the abuser’s actions.
  4. Desire to Protect the Abuser: Enablers often have a close relationship with the abuser and may want to protect them from legal consequences or social ostracism.
  5. Misguided Loyalty: Loyalty to the abuser, whether due to familial ties, friendship, or romantic attachment, can result in enabling behaviour.
  6. Normalisation of Violence: In some cases, enablers have grown up in environments where violence was normalised, leading them to not recognise domestic violence as unacceptable.
  7. Hope for Change: Enablers may cling to the hope that the abuser will change, often against all evidence to the contrary.

Personalities Prone to Enabling

  1. The Caretaker: Individuals who have a nurturing personality may find themselves in the role of an enabler, believing they can “fix” or “heal” the abuser.
  2. The Peacemaker: Those who prioritise harmony and are conflict-averse may enable abuse by avoiding confrontations and not addressing the issue directly.
  3. The Optimist: Ever-hopeful optimists might continually look for the good in the abuser, to the point of ignoring the harmful behaviours.
  4. The Authoritarian: People who uphold strict traditional values may believe in maintaining family structure at all costs, even if it means enabling domestic violence.
  5. The Uninformed: Lack of awareness about the dynamics of domestic violence can lead to enabling behaviour simply because the individual does not recognise the signs.

Breaking the Cycle

Addressing the issue of enablers is not about assigning blame but about recognising their crucial role in the ecosystem of domestic violence. Education and awareness are vital. Enablers need to understand the impact of their actions (or inactions) and be equipped with resources and support to make a change.

Intervention programs and support groups can help enablers realise the gravity of the situation and encourage them to take appropriate action. Professional help can also provide the tools to confront their own fears and dependencies, which may be at the root of their enabling behaviours.

Tackling domestic violence requires a comprehensive approach that includes understanding and intervening in the behaviour of enablers. By shining a light on this often-overlooked group, we can take another step toward breaking the cycle of abuse and fostering a society where violence in any form is not tolerated or enabled.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out to local resources or call a domestic violence hotline for help.

#DomesticViolenceAwareness #StopEnablingAbuse #BreakTheCycle #EndTheSilence #SupportSurvivors #EducateToEmpower #TakeAStand #NoMoreExcuses #InterventionMatters #HealthyRelationships

This is a guest post by Alex Reed. 

Alex is a passionate mental health advocate who uses their writing to bridge the gap between clinical psychology and everyday experiences.  Alex offers insights, advice, and comfort to those seeking understanding and solidarity. Alex believes in the power of shared stories to inspire healing and growth.

Standing Strong. The Vital Importance of Self-Care Amidst Narcissistic Enablement

Remember, in the pursuit of healing and wholeness, you are never alone.

In the twisted dynamics that often characterise relationships involving narcissistic abuse, victims find themselves not only grappling with the direct impact of the narcissist’s actions but also navigating the complex web of enablers that facilitate such behaviours. These enablers, whether knowingly or unknowingly, contribute to a toxic environment that magnifies the victim’s sense of isolation and helplessness. Amidst this overwhelming tide, the importance of self-care becomes not just a means of maintaining one’s well-being but a crucial act of resistance and empowerment. This blog post aims to underscore the significance of self-care for victims caught in the nexus of narcissistic abuse and enabler dynamics.

Understanding the Role of Enablers

Enablers of narcissistic behaviour often reinforce the abuser’s actions, either by denying the abuse, minimising its impact, or even blaming the victim. This reinforcement can significantly increase the psychological toll on the victim, making it feel as if there’s no way out or no one who truly understands the depth of their plight. In such scenarios, the victim’s reality is constantly invalidated, leading to profound confusion and self-doubt. It’s within this context that self-care emerges as a beacon of hope and a pathway to reclaiming one’s sense of self and autonomy.

The Pillars of Self-Care in the Face of Narcissistic Enablement

  1. Emotional Self-Care: This involves acknowledging and validating your feelings, understanding that your emotional responses to the abuse and the enablers’ actions are legitimate. Practices might include journaling, engaging in therapy, or simply allowing yourself to feel without judgment.
  2. Physical Self-Care: The stress of dealing with narcissistic abuse and its enablers can take a toll on your physical health. Prioritising sleep, nutrition, and physical activity can help bolster your physical resilience, making you better equipped to cope with emotional stress.
  3. Social Self-Care: Isolation is a common tactic used by narcissists and, by extension, their enablers. Reaching out to trusted friends, family, or support groups who understand and validate your experiences can provide a crucial lifeline and counteract feelings of isolation.
  4. Informational Self-Care: Educating yourself about narcissistic abuse, including the roles and tactics of enablers, can empower you with knowledge and help demystify the confusing dynamics you’re experiencing. This understanding can be instrumental in breaking the cycle of abuse.
  5. Setting Boundaries: Perhaps one of the most challenging yet essential aspects of self-care in this context is setting firm boundaries. This might mean limiting or ceasing contact with the narcissist and their enablers, a step that requires immense courage and resolve but is critical for your mental health and well-being.
  6. Seeking Professional Help: Navigating the aftermath of narcissistic abuse and the complicity of enablers can be overwhelming. Professional help from therapists or counsellors who specialise in narcissistic abuse recovery can provide you with tailored strategies to heal and reclaim your life.

The journey of recovery from narcissistic abuse, compounded by the challenges posed by enablers, is undeniably arduous. However, it’s crucial to remember that amidst the chaos, your well-being remains paramount. By committing to self-care, you not only safeguard your physical and emotional health but also take a stand against the cycle of abuse. Self-care is your right, a vital act of self-preservation, and perhaps most importantly, a declaration of your inherent worth and strength. Let it be your anchor, your quiet rebellion against the forces seeking to undermine you.

Remember, in the pursuit of healing and wholeness, you are never alone.

#SelfCareJourney  #NarcissisticAbuseRecovery #EmpowermentThroughSelfCare #BreakTheCycle #HealingFromAbuse#SettingBoundaries #SurvivorStrength #EmotionalWellbeing #PhysicalHealthMatters #SocialSupportNetworks

This is a guest post by Alex Reed. 

Alex is a passionate mental health advocate who uses their writing to bridge the gap between clinical psychology and everyday experiences.  Alex offers insights, advice, and comfort to those seeking understanding and solidarity. Alex believes in the power of shared stories to inspire healing and growth.

🌟 Reflecting on a Groundbreaking Approach to Suicide Prevention 💜

 


A recent article in The Conversation, titled “Have we been trying to prevent suicides wrongly all this time?” really resonated with me, offering a fresh perspective on a critical issue. As someone with personal experience in this area, the findings hit close to home.

Traditional methods focus on identifying individuals ‘at risk’ of suicide. Despite these efforts, Australia’s suicide rates have disturbingly increased from 2012 to 2022.

This signals a need for a new approach, perhaps shifting the question from “who is at risk?” to “when is a person at risk?”

The article presents intriguing findings. On the day of a suicide attempt, individuals often feel they are a burden to their loved ones. The day before, many experience a profound loss of hope, feeling powerless to change crucial aspects of their lives.

Using this data, researchers developed an algorithm to monitor spikes in these and other key risk factors, signaling increased short-term risk of suicide attempts. This tool is now live in a hospital setting, alerting staff to at-risk patients, enabling targeted and immediate interventions when the risk of an attempt is highest.

This innovative approach could be a game-changer in suicide prevention, offering a more dynamic and responsive way to support those in their most vulnerable moments. It’s a prime example of how data and technology can be harnessed to save lives.

#MentalHealthAwareness #SuicidePrevention #InnovationInHealthcare #DataForGood 🧠💡❤️

In the Shadows of Envy Exploiters Coveting the Lives of Narcissists’ Victims

 

The journey towards recovery from narcissistic abuse is laden with hurdles, including the potential for further exploitation by those envious of the life you once led.

Within the complex aftermath of narcissistic abuse, a particularly intricate dynamic can unfold. This occurs when an individual, having long lingered in the victim’s shadow, perceives the vulnerability wrought by the narcissist’s maltreatment not simply as an opportunity for exploitation, but as a chance to claim the life the victim once led—desiring everything the victim had that they themselves lacked. This blog post delves into the psychology behind such exploitation, offering insights on recognising and safeguarding oneself against these predatory ambitions.

Deciphering the Underlying Psychology

Individuals poised to exploit a narcissist’s victim in this manner often harbour deep-seated envy and resentment. They have observed the victim’s life from a distance, yearning for their accomplishments, relationships, or status. When the narcissist undermines the victim, the exploiter views it as an opportunity to fill the void, to seize the life and identity that once belonged to the victim.

Identifying the Warning Signs

  1. Excessive Curiosity: The exploiter exhibits a keen interest in the victim’s life, surpassing the bounds of normal friendship or concern, often probing into their relationships, financial matters, or personal triumphs.
  2. Mimetic Behaviour: They may begin to emulate the victim’s lifestyle, decisions, and even their mannerisms, striving to align themselves more closely with what they perceive as the victim’s advantages.
  3. Tactics of Isolation: Echoing the narcissist’s strategies, the exploiter attempts to further isolate the victim, not only from their support networks but also from the elements of their life that provided identity and strength.
  4. Belittling Achievements: The exploiter might subtly dismiss the victim’s achievements or diminish their capabilities, seeking to degrade their self-esteem and affirm their own ascendancy.

Strategies for Self-Protection

  1. Firm Boundaries: Establishing and upholding strict personal boundaries is essential. Exercise caution in divulging personal information to someone demonstrating an unnatural interest in your life.
  2. Solidifying Your Identity: Dedicate time to reaffirming your own identity and value, independent of your possessions or others’ perceptions. Your worth is intrinsic, not contingent on material aspects.
  3. Securing Genuine Support: Foster a support network comprising friends, family, and professionals who value you for your true self, not for what you possess or what they might gain from you.
  4. Heeding Your Intuition: Should you sense that someone’s interest in your life is fuelled by their own aspirations rather than genuine concern, trust that intuition. Caution is preferable to regret.
  5. Professional Advice: If extricating yourself from an exploitative relationship proves challenging, or if you’re uncertain about someone’s motives, seeking a professional therapist or counsellor’s advice is advisable.

The journey towards recovery from narcissistic abuse is laden with hurdles, including the potential for further exploitation by those envious of the life you once led. Recognising the indicators of such exploitation and implementing measures to protect oneself are vital steps in navigating this convoluted path. Remember, true recovery and empowerment emanate from within, not from the validation or acceptance of others. Your path is uniquely yours, and no individual has the right to co-opt your story for their personal advantage.

#RecoveryFromNarcissisticAbuse #SafeguardYourEnergy #SettingBoundaries #ReclaimingYourLife #EmotionalProtection #IdentityStrength #BewareOfEnvy

This is a guest post by Alex Reed. 

Alex is a passionate mental health advocate who uses their writing to bridge the gap between clinical psychology and everyday experiences.  Alex offers insights, advice, and comfort to those seeking understanding and solidarity. Alex believes in the power of shared stories to inspire healing and growth.