The Stories We Carry About Ourselves

I have been thinking about the words we use to describe ourselves. A sentence such as "I am bad at asking for help" can feel so familiar that there seems to be nothing left to discuss. I wonder how much of our experience gets left out of sentences like that.

My understanding of personal growthincludes making room for a fuller picture. A person may find it difficult to ask for help in one relationship and easier in another. The circumstances matter, and a broad label can make those differences harder to see.

I am interested in the questions that open up when a familiar description is explored. Where does it seem accurate? When does it fit less well? What would the person want to understand about it? There does not need to be a quick replacement story waiting at the end.

I also think this kind of reflection deserves gentleness. The words people use about themselves may be connected to difficult experiences, and I would not want a conversation about growth to become another reason for self-criticism.

As I reflect on the stories we carry, I keep coming back to the possibility of understanding ourselves with more detail and more care.

A Few Questions I Am Often Asked

Can a conversation really change how I see myself?

Often, yes, and gently. When we slow down and look at the actual details of your life, broad labels start to loosen. Understanding tends to come before change.

What is the difference between coaching and therapy?

Therapy is mental health treatment with a licensed clinician, and coaching is not a replacement for it. Coaching with me is a forward-looking conversation about your life and goals. The International Coaching Federationdescribes what professional coaching is and is not.

Are sessions in person or virtual?

Coaching sessions are virtual and last one hour, so you can join from anywhere. I am based in Phoenix, Arizona, and if you are local and curious about in-person sound or energy work, those sessionshappen at the Empower House Community Gathering Space in North Phoenix.

If you'd like more info, feel free to call me at 623-986-3987.

Warmly,

Water Shepherd