Navigating Your Story

We all have stories we tell ourselves. This is our self-image. We all have stories others tell about us. This is our reputation. Sometimes we internalize not helpful stories others tell about us, and sometimes we need to allow others to know more of who we are or hear feedback on what they have to say.

Most stories we tell are about the past. The past can be a predictor of the future, if we allow, and want it to be. This is how our brains are habitually wired – to repeat the past – good, bad or indifferent. The conscious leader evaluates and discerns if they want more of the past in the future. If not, then there is mental and emotional work to do to rewire your brain differently. 

The mental work is about gaining clarity about what you want. The emotional work is about galvanizing your commitment and excitement to make something happen in the way you want it to. Here is where habits, coaching and teamwork come in – helping each other be the person we know we can be. 

I recently interviewed Kendra Petty, an organizational leader, who published her memoir, I Can’t Believe I’m Not Dead. It’s about the trauma and abuse she experienced in her life. She wrote it as a way to heal and also to help others. Gaining clarity on your story is one way to get clear about what you want, or don’t want, going forward.

How are you writing or rewriting your future? Let us know if we can help.

Suze Shaner is an executive coach and leadership & organization effectiveness consultant. She also teaches yoga and meditation – tools to keep one sane in uncertain times. She helps professionals step up to their fullest leadership, life and growth potential. At times this means getting out of their own way in getting important stuff accomplished. www.sagelead.com.