The Blog

How To Write The Script For A Better Tomorrow

emotional wellbeing physical wellbeing relational wellbeing

I've been thinking a lot about stories lately. Yours and mine. And how the two intersect. Though we can't change the story that's unfolded so far, we can influence the next chapter.  

From the time I was in middle school I've been collecting other people's stories. I can still recall the places we were and hear words that were secretly shared with me. As the details unfolded, it would often end with, "I've never told anyone that before..."  

Years later, as a coach and counselor, I've collected more stories than I can count. Every single one is completely unique... yet common themes bind them together.

Most conversations go something like this:

(1) I'm stuck.
(2) I should probably change something (or somebody... me?)
(3) I've tried to fix this "thing" before, but here I am again.
(4) I don't know what else to do.
(5) What should I do? I think I may need help.

Sometimes, simply listening to their story has helped someone get unstuck. But more often than not, it's the guidance and relationship that grows between the two of us that ultimately helps them restore belief in their ability to change their story. To re-write their future story.

Yes, the beginning of our story impacts today. But it doesn't have to impact tomorrow. If we don't like where the story is headed we can start writing a different script. 

Here are 3 ways to write the script for a better tomorrow:

  1. Edit. Take out your red pen and start eliminating what's unnecessary. Look at all the things that are part of your life and put a big red line through the stuff that doesn't make the story better. Is it an activity? A behavior? A habit? Gulp...a person? Think critically about what makes the story better and what details are unnecesary in the big picture. When you're done editing, do it again. 
  2. Collaborate. Invite someone to write with you. One of the hardest things we can do in life is to admit we need help. I get it. (you can read more about my story in this blog post) A co-writer can help you get unstuck when the next chapter is foggy or you're lost in the script. Whether this is a trusted friend, a helping professional, or a coach, a great partnership clarifies our path.
  3. Write. You might have a great idea in your head. You may have it all scripted out. But unless you write it down and do it, you will stay right where you are... allowing the future to be written for you instead of scripting the next chapter. You must take action, even if you're struggling with writer's block. You don't have to write a novel. Just a couple of word prompts can get you moving. 

Maybe the thing that has you stuck today is your weight or your relationship with food (I've tried everything but...). Maybe it's lack of energy or uncontrollable mood swings (hello hormones!). Maybe it's a bad habit you just can't seem to break (I just can't seem to stop...). Or maybe you just don't feel very good, and don't know why (I wish I could just...).

Whatever your story, know that you're not alone.

If you need someone to believe in you and help you re-write your future story, I'm here to walk alongside you. To believe in you when you're struggling to believe in yourself. To help you re-discover your belief in YOU. To collaborate with you and help you edit and write your next chapter.

My goal, as a coach, is to help women at a crossroads get unstuck and help you take the next step so that you become YOU-IER (yes, it's a word).

Martin Luther King penned these words:

"Faith is taking the next step, even when you don't see the whole staircase." 

Are you ready to step and write?

Better endings start with today.