I was chatting with my friend and colleague, Jennie HK, today about the idea that we all have a ‘story’ around ourselves and our life experiences.

 

All too often our stories are used as a safety blanket to keep us in a comfort zone and often that means being uncomfortable because you know nothing else. For example, I had a story for a long time which went, ‘My Mum committed suicide, the ultimate break of trust so trusting others is hard for me’. HUGE limiting self belief. For many reasons rooted deep into my childhood trust was always a big issue for me and resulted in a strong belief that I couldn’t trust or rely on others. The suicide of my mum then proved it and made it fact! I hated feeling and thinking that way. It was incredibly painful and uncomfortable but that was all I knew, so it felt safe. Over several years my story evolved from one of victim to one of empowerment because I learned to overcome that limiting belief. That was no easy feat and took me on one helluva roller-coaster ride which still today has the odd dip but mostly I am riding high and loving a life that puts trust into practice every day, starting with myself. My experiences of loss, grief, distrust, self discovery, compassion, trust and the power of self love now enable me to relate to others in a unique and humbling way. I tell my story openly because it helps others. My story evolved further to creating art which inspires and motivates people to live their truth. I believe it is my responsibility to share the truth of my life to inspire and assist others in any way, big or small. What is the point of sitting on that wealth of experience? Who would it serve?

 

You might have a story of heartbreak. Or a story around severe disadvantage. Perhaps your story is that you suffered abuse at some level as a child. Perhaps you live with a disability. Maybe you have led a life of adventure and excitement as a result of your story. Maybe your story spurred you to achieved extraordinary feats of bravery. Perhaps you are an incredibly successful entrepreneur as a result of your life experience. Maybe your story has moved you to simply living a life that you love. Or you are in love. Whatever your story, I bet there is someone out there you could help by sharing it in your own unique and authentic way. Maybe you blog about it or publish a novel. Perhaps you grow a business or charity around your story. Maybe you just share it with your children. Or your mates. Whatever is right for you.

 

Sharing our stories connects us at a very fundamental level. We understand each-other as human beings with relatable life experience. We don’t feel alone. We feel connected and understood.

 

Not everyone will be interested or be able to relate to your story. It’s not about the masses. It’s about doing your little bit to instigate change for the better. Even if you only relate to and inspire one other human being, it counts. It has a knock-on effect.

 

I believe it is your responsibility to use your story to the benefit of others. Not sit on it. What a missed opportunity. You have experienced what you have in life for a REASON. Do not let it go to waste. Don’t use it as a crutch. If your story is still one of victim, turn it on it’s head and put it to good use.

 

Just my thought for today…