I was reminded last week of the overwhelming power of our stories. I was part of a conversation where another person was lamenting their misery and lack of fulfillment at their work. Always being curious when I hear such strong perspectives, I wanted to know more. What was going on? What made them stay?
And in a Jekyll-and-Hyde-esque flip of the script, the person changed tones instantaneously as all their stories flooded to the surface in defense.
“Well it’s actually a pretty good job and has good benefits.”
“I could never find a job with this same salary that allows me the flexibility I have.”
“If I’m not working, I’m not supporting my family.”
In no time flat, they went from the burden of their lived experience to explaining – oh-so-logically – why it makes perfect sense that they stay at this job.
With no room for argument. Only room for justified misery.
Now those are some strong stories.
We all have them. The reasons for the things we do. And sometimes, those stories are so strong, so convincing, we’re absolutely sure they’re right. That they’re the TRUTH. So true in fact that we couldn’t possibly fathom that there might be others stories – other ways of looking at and understanding the world around us – that would help us thrive instead.
What stories are you (intentionally or subconsciously) carrying with you?
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Did you read to the end of this post?
(Because someone said you should?)
(Because you’re supposed to finish what you start?)
(Because you really wanted to?)
(Because…?)
