What I learned as a Spiritual Coach this week of 8.20.23
Hello, Magical Beings!
Today, I want to share what I've learned as a spiritual coach in the past few weeks. I do this to support those who are exploring their own spirituality, helping you understand that the journey isn't easy for us either. We're held accountable, just like you are. And remember, what we teach you is often something we're learning ourselves.
I also created a 12 minute video going into detail, so if you’d like to watch, please scroll down and click on “video”
Let's start by pulling a card to see what I've learned recently. So, I ask spirit: What have I learned recently that could be supportive to my community?
Alright, the card I've pulled is "Humor," and there's a laughing Buddha depicted. The message reads: "I choose to focus on the lighter side of life." This teaching resonates deeply with me, given my personal history. Growing up, I was exposed to extremely negative and toxic environments. As a result, I was a sad child, a melancholic teenager, and even carried that sadness into my twenties. My brain was wired to seek out negativity in everything and everyone, constantly looking for threats and dangers to protect me. This instinct was aggressive, keeping me awake at night and waking me up in the morning.
Since embarking on my spiritual journey in 2013, I've learned to recognize this pattern. I've honored and accepted it, and now I'm actively rewiring my brain to seek out positivity. It's a challenging endeavor since negativity has become my default. The process of shifting this perspective involves acknowledging the negativity, understanding its source, and gradually training myself to focus on the positive aspects of life.
Imagine, for a moment, a round table with different versions of myself gathered around it: my inner child, my teenage self, my younger and current selves, as well as my past and future versions. Alongside these, there are also my spirit guides, ancestors, non-physical beings, deities, and the divine. It's a bustling council where each aspect contributes to my decision-making and understanding. Now, I've given space to the negative side of myself as well. This negativity is an inherent part of me, instantly leaping to the forefront to shield me from potential harm.
In my role as a spiritual coach, I encounter clients who grapple with their inner critics and prevailing negativity. These aspects often overshadow their positive traits, affecting their manifestations and results. In my personal journey, I've been working to change my perspective. I was once consumed by sadness, anger, and resentment, but now I choose to see the joy and positivity in people. I approach situations with a focus on good intentions and potential growth.
As an intuitive individual, I communicate with my guides and connect with the divine daily. However, my skepticism occasionally kicks in due to my historical disposition toward negativity. Over the past weeks, I've faced triggers that have caused doubt to creep in. In response, I've received messages urging me to prioritize self-care, appreciate my body, and relish the present moment. While this journey isn't easy, I've made strides. I engage in conversations with my inner critic, asking for evidence that her perspective has changed.
It's a dialogue of transformation and affirmation. I present evidence of positive shifts in my life: my nurturing environment, supportive relationships, healthier choices, and personal growth. This process requires patience and persistence. It's about consciously choosing a more uplifting thought, even in the face of overwhelming negativity. I acknowledge that I'm responsible for shaping my thoughts and feelings, no one else.
One approach I've embraced is speaking to my inner child at night. I visualize her, connecting with her in a nurturing, motherly manner. I celebrate the day's victories and write them down—simple yet meaningful achievements, like restful sleep, morning affirmations, and delightful breakfasts. For instance, I've refined my breakfast routine to suit my dietary needs and savor the moment. By highlighting these positive moments, I'm bridging the gap between my critical inner voice and the reality of progress.
Incorporating humor has been instrumental. While I haven't laughed constantly, I've come to understand that the energy of laughter can counteract seriousness. The most important lesson is to not take myself too seriously. I'm where I need to be, making the best of my circumstances. I've realized that humor is a powerful tool for changing my perspective and embracing life's lighter side.
I hope my story resonates with you, whether now or in the future. Thank you for joining me on this journey, supporting my work, and allowing me to share my vulnerability with you. Have a fantastic day, and remember, I love you!
Photocred: Autumn Goodman @auttgood