Our perspective has a huge impact on our thoughts, emotions, and behaviour. The old story of the two shoe salesmen who went to a remote island is a good example. The first sent a message back saying: “No one wears shoes, not even worth trying.” The other sent a very different message: “No one wears shoes, send lots! Plenty of opportunity!”
Our life experiences can influence or change our perspectives, and we tend to develop a story or narrative that we start to live by. This story can keep us stuck in a particular way of thinking or responding that may not be helpful.
Counselling provides a safe space for us to start to take note of the stories we may be believing, and reflect honestly on our current perspectives. We can explore the impact that these may be having on us, and contemplate whether these stories are deceptive, rather than truthful. Starting to see ourselves, or our life situations, in a different way can cause a shift in our personal worlds. We can start to choose responses that are more empowering, and lead to a more fulfilling life.