What is the story you tell yourself?
.. about who you are.. what you do.. and what is your worth and value?
Each story is embedded in our own truths and beliefs. Some stories are true and in the moment… and some are crafted from the past…
I had a chance to attend a group VIP dinner with folks in San Francisco. A first night event after many years, wasn’t sure I would have the energy… There were times where I felt this is good and at times where I doubted myself. Who am I to be amongst all of these folks?
And I convinced myself in the narrative that I told myself.. that I am a nobody. That I didn't have the right title or senior title - VP / CxO to be considered worthy in the group. When some folks that I connected with, didn't accept the request, I convinced myself the story is true. And that this is why I don't go to group events. This was my first one in a while and a test to see if I can be back in the circle.
And not what I do doesn't matter for these folks.. these are the VIPs and I was just a guest who was invited by another VIP. That my job title as Director decided who I am in that dinner and my conversations sometimes felt forced - like I was trying to hard to impress and fit in. Belong was way far at the end on the totem pole.
And I was sure this was the world that I left behind 4 years ago… and now I'm trying to go back… or perhaps find my way… and belong… but why?
I always want to be approachable to my mentees and students. Am I trying too many things or levels to juggle? You cannot do both, right?
What's your story?
Whenever something troubles me, this right here is my safe space.. my haven to unveil the underlying thoughts and to let it go in writing.
It works sometimes and sometimes it doesn't. It's a process and a practice.
Folks have been asking me how is my photo exhibit and all I can say is I don't know since I haven't heard back from most folks that I've shared with. I had one feedback from a coworker who went and saw the exhibit and that's it. Folks that they would be interested to go and said the video looks beautiful. I don't think even my friends have the time to visit. Everyone is busy in their own lives.
Perhaps it hurts and that's okay. I am learning to feel. This has been the first time that I put myself out there into the unknown in the world of photography and art gallery. Not sure what I was expecting but this doesn't feel good.
I have to remind myself that I am enough. And that whatever life throws at me, I'm ready. And if I am not ready, I will be.
New path ahead
Just when I thought I was settling in and getting ready for the world, another curve ball hits and I need to move back to San Francisco. To the home that I left 4 years ago.. And perhaps it's time to continue to heal and go with the flow.
It's time to change the story and make it one that is for me, and not for anyone else.
I am redefining what home means for me. I realized over the past couple of years that I struggled with the word home. I know that home is what it means for me whatever that may be.
Home is where the heart is …
Yesterday, I went to the library to pick up a few books for inspiration to create this new home. To leave the past behind and move forward.
I read the Little Book of Hygge a few weeks ago at a friend's home, as if it knew that I needed to see home in a new light.. to be mindful and live a simplistic life...
What stories are you telling yourself?
Whether you're looking for a job or a new life, pay attention to how you feel.
What are the inklings that are holding you back?
Carve out the path that you can call as your own.
Leap forward into the unknown and trust the universe has your back.
The road less traveled
I'm living a portfolio life and exploring the world around the corner. Every day is a new day and a test to open your heart and soul.
To break through and break free in my own way…
Just because someone didn't see you for who you are, doesn't mean you don't exist or that you don't matter. You do matter. Every ounce of you matters.
Pema Chodron’s book Start where you is as a reminder for a path of unconditional compassionate living. One where we can appreciate and celebrate every moment.
The world of storytelling
When you're ready to tell your story, be the one on the stage, because yours is the story to tell. Be your authentic voice!
I finished reading the book - Living a committed life, and I'm convinced I'm on a journey to a committed life.
As I read Cody Rigsby's book - xoxo, Cody, I was amazed by his strength and courage to share his story and the journey that unfolded along the way. To acknowledge that you are who you are and you can be you. Authentic and fearless.
Every story has a start, middle and end. And we are in the middle of it today. Be fully present in this moment and cherish the messy middle.
As I'm reading the book, Solve for happy, I'm convinced there is more to the stories that we tell. And it’s up to us to find joy amidst the sorrow.
And this is a good reminder that I read this morning on IG..
You deserve to be happy - book
this is a reminder to slow down and be gentle with yourself. you have been through a lot the last few weeks and you need to give yourself some time to breathe and reset. take as long as you need.
- you deserve it
I had a lovely lunch with a dear friend, and that made it all worth it. We met after 4 years and it was wonderful. So listen to the stories you tell and change the narrative when it doesn't serve you anymore.
You are worth it!
Join us at the PMM talks about Storytelling with an exciting panel..
References on Storytelling and Product Marketing: