Write Your Life Story
How do you feel about writing your life story?
Your answer actually reveals a lot about how you relate with yourself.
Unless there’s a narcissistic bone in us (and we all have a bit of that), most of us are really uncomfortable and lazy in taking on the task of writing our life stories.
We much prefer the accolades of others to give us a window into who we think we are or believe in the deceptions of our mind chatter – which is, our lives don’t really matter.
We tend to leave the exercise of telling our own story to the end of our lives or when we happen to be in the limelight. Many of us don’t think we have time for such an exercise. We are fairly content and satisfied if there’s enough money in the bank and have health to enjoy what we love.
Until a tragedy hits, one’s health suffers, a job loss is experienced or we find ourselves up against the wall no matter how much we try.
So, you’re quite right if you think writing your life story is not an easy exercise. But you are richer for it if you try.
Miracle of Life
It’s not easy to live a beautiful life. The great artist knows that. A self aware person knows that. Even many tweens and teenagers know that.
Self-introspection is essential for forgiveness, surrendering and compassion to happen. How does that come about?
Only when we take time to look within. Now, that’s hard work if you do it alone.
Being part of a coaching group or working with a life coach is a more fun way to grow the artistry of your life.
In today’s culture, and even in earlier times, we are fascinated with and interested in other people – particularly people with many accomplishments, extraordinary talent and remarkable skills.
Have you ever wondered why? People tell interesting stories about them – whether inspiring, sensational or sordid. We love to know about the ins and outs, the rise and fall of them. We think we know these movie stars, CEOs, celebrities, famous singers, sports stars by the stories told about them.
Even though these stories are entertaining, they don’t nourish or satisfy us. Just like consuming highly processed food of low nutritional value, we enjoy it in the moment but we ruin our health over the long term.
Instead of consuming, judging or envying their stories, why not take the time to write yours?
What’s your story?
Write Your Own Story
Get clear on your own life story. Try telling it somewhere to someone–even if it’s in a journal to yourself! That clarity provides you a powerful freedom. It gives you the ability to choose a narrative that supports you. In other words, it’s your best defense to live a deep and meaningful life.
You write your life story because you want to become intimately acquainted with yourself. You write your life story because you value truth and self honesty. You write your life story because decluttering all the emotional and mental noise within does wonders for your personal soul and health.
History might record some kind of imprint of you, but what’s more meaningful is to live your life well today.
Your Life as a Story
To move confidently forward, it’s essential to go over one’s past and read the story you tell yourself.
Do you like it? Or are there areas that make you wince?
Write your stories. Get clear about what happened. See where you have recurring loops or patterns. Notice what you treasure. Take note of what is amiss. Reflect, make course corrections, continue doing things you like or write new chapters.
You are the author, and you can edit your own story. Welcome the challenge and write your next chapter.
You don’t have to do this alone. It’s okay to get help reflecting deeper on your life story. To get coaching on writing your story, please find me on Linkedin.