We all have a story


We can learn a lot about the world around us by listening to the stories we hear.  In times of isolation and uncertainty when the world appears to be falling into the depths of doom and gloom, with predictions of depression and recession take the time to listen to the stories people tell. Pick up the strength within their story.

We all have a story to tell, a unique tale of our experience in the world. From the moment you get up in the morning you start a new chapter. When you think about it your day is whole new set of short stories.  There are the big stories if achievement, loss, and significant life events. But there is a collection of shorter stories that unfold in between the big ones. Short stories that come out of nowhere, for no rhyme or reason, the spare of the moment acts of kindness, or little setbacks that just happen as part of life.


We live in a world that is constantly telling one story or another. Stop a moment and listen, what do you hear? Can you pick up the strengths in a person’s story, or your own?

There is no question that every story has a note of strength within it. Do you hear the curiosity, self-regulation, or creativity? Even in stories f adversity and sadness there are strengths hidden in the messages.  Even a recount of a persons daily routine drips with self-regulation, riding a bicycle on a busy road: bravery, noticing the sunset on Tuesday: Appreciation of beauty and excellence.

Stop a moment and listen to what you are hearing and can you hear a strength come through in the message. What can you take away from the stories you hear? A fantastic exercise is to make a note of the strengths you observe in your story and the stories around you. Spotting strengths in others, not only helps to build your own understanding for your character strengths but can develop elationships.  Listen to some ones story and comment on the strength they used: “I never noticed the sunset the other night, you have a real appreciation of beauty in the world” “gosh you showed real leadership.” Notice their reaction.

Observing strengths in your own story can have a similar effect.  Not only are you becoming more aware of your own strengths, but that same sense of achievement will become evident as you continue to identify strengths within your actions. 

Remember, nothing changes is nothing changes. Start on your strength spotting journey today keep it up for few days and notice how you feel. Your sense of Happiness and wellbeing will be lifted, then start sharing what you notice with others.

For support in learning your greatest strengths, I work with small groups and individuals face to face and online www.coastlinecoaching.co,nz



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