<<Previous Issue
Next
Issue>>
March 2003
As many of you know,
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron is one of my favorite books.
Recently I was re-reading her chapter on "Discovering a Sense of
Identity" where she talks about both the barriers to "creative
recovery" that others can present, as well as how we can sabotage
our own efforts to establish our identity.
For example, it is not uncommon for us to undermine our own progress
by listening to internal "tapes" that are old and outdated, yet
which still exert incredible force on us. Or, we allow what Cameron
calls "poisonous playmates" or crazymakers to derail our
self-confidence or cause us to lose our momentum. The best antidotes
for these situations are positive affirmations, setting clear
boundaries, and specific actions that move you back to your intended
goal or focus.
Another way we may sabotage ourselves is by failing to pay attention
to those "coincidences" and opportunities that suddenly present
themselves; they are coming to you for a reason. Develop an
appreciation for synchronicity, and be open to the possibility that
the universe just might be cooperating with your plans.
Be forewarned: when we begin to be clear about who we want to be,
the world around us will begin to provide us with ample opportunity
to become that which we desire. (Just this week, a note from a
client began "Be careful what you wish for..".) The opportunities
may also come in the form of challenges, temptations, lessons, or
experiences. Some will provide us with deeper understanding of that
which we desire; some will help us redefine what it is we seek; some
will trip us up; some will catapult us to a new level of thinking or
action. Some we will discard, some we will embrace.
One of the ways you can use me, as your coach, is to help you
articulate what professional identity you want to discover in the
context of your work, and to support you as you encounter and
explore those opportunities that will undoubtedly present themselves
as you move toward your goal. Thank you for the privilege of working
with you, and for the courage and creativity you bring to our work.
Sharon
Sharon Keys Seal