Your hidden relationship pattern

Once upon a time, in a quaint little town, there lived a woman named Sarah. She was vibrant and intelligent and valued her relationships. 

 

Yet, Sarah had a way of approaching relationships that often left her feeling lost and unfulfilled.

 

Sarah was the kind of person who believed that her happiness hinged on her partner being there with her. She couldn’t help but rely heavily on them for reassurance and a sense of security. This made her relationships feel like a rollercoaster, with moments of euphoria followed by sharp drops of anxiety.

 

One day, Sarah’s close friend Jake sat her down for a heart-to-heart conversation. “Sarah,” he said gently, “It’s wonderful to value your partner, but don’t forget to nurture your own sense of self. It can help break the cycle of emotional dependence.”

 

Sarah’s trust issues had her worrying that her partner would abandon her for someone else. She found herself feeling suspicious whenever her partner spent time with friends, family, or anyone close to them. Paranoia was high. It was like a never-ending loop of jealousy and insecurity.

 

Sarah’s sister, Jane, offered her some valuable insight. “Sarah,” she said, “Every healthy relationship requires you to work on your own pain point that you bring into the relationship that is interfering with having closeness. Which is the very thing you want.’

 

Sarah yearned to hear that she was loved, appreciated, and valued by her partner. Without these external actions, she often spiralled into feelings of emptiness and sadness.

 

Sarah was inherently demanding when it came to her relationships. She craved her partner’s attention and affection. Whenever she was alone with her partner, she felt uneasy, and if her needs weren’t met, she would explode in frustration.

 

During the session, we explored this fear of someone leaving her, when she wanted to be chosen. Be the number one. Where does it stem from?

 

Digging deep down, it was her mother. Her mother chose God over her. And so then she clung so tightly to her partner for fear of abandonment, and that not being chosen. 

 

Emotional charges, left unresolved, create a hypervigilant state. This is where the individual monitors her partner’s every move, searching for any signs of disappointment or anger. Seeking a confirmation bias of affirming what they felt as a child being projected into the adult relationship.  

 

This led her to adopt a pattern of people-pleasing to avoid conflict. 

 

In the journey of Sarah’s life, she learned that recognizing these patterns was the first step towards healthier relationships. Becoming aware is the beginning of change. 

 

QUESTIONS OF GROWTH

  1. Reflect on your own relationship dynamic (or if you are single, choose a family member, friend or business dynamic), what is the underlying dynamic, and where it stems from (eg. Sarah – relationship dynamic of people please, avoid conflict, fear of abandonment – that stemmed from a mother’s wound.)

What is it for you? I’m curious. Feel free to hit reply and tell me your story.

 

 

Just like Sarah, we all have our unique relationship dynamics to navigate. 

 

Navigating the seas of relationships requires not just sailing together but exploring the uncharted depths beneath the surface. Explore the very charges that are hazing and interfering with truly being and loving ourselves and our spouse. 

 

By understanding these patterns and actively working on the deeper layers of the problem under the problem, we can create fulfilling relationships. 

 

Tanya “Heart Open” Cross

 

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

 

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Navigating Survival Mode: The Mental and Emotional Burden on Money and Business

In the journey of life, we all face moments when we find ourselves in survival mode. 


Maybe because there isn’t a steady stream of work, you’re financially under pressure, or you are on the verge of a relationship breakdown. 


These challenging times can be emotionally and mentally draining, often casting a shadow on your financial well-being and business endeavours. 


As a coach, it’s essential to understand and address the intricate interplay between the mental and emotional burden of survival mode and its impact on money and business. 


Today, I thought it would be important to delve into these aspects and explore strategies and questions to help both you and your clients weather the storm.


Understanding Survival Mode:

We have all experienced survival mode, where you feel heightened stress and anxiety which is triggered by various life challenges. Maybe for you, it is a lack of clients, loss of inspiration, or feeling burnt out.


This mode often leads to a fight-flight-freeze response, where you prioritize immediate survival over long-term goals. 


The Mental and Emotional Toll:

 Let’s address what actually happens in your mind and body during this period of time. 


Survival mode can be mentally exhausting. Constantly worrying about making ends meet or the future of one’s business can lead to high levels of stress and anxiety. Sleepless nights, hiding away from the world. Struggling to concentrate. 


Clients in survival mode may struggle with thought patterns, such as self-doubt, fear, and hopelessness. These emotions can make it difficult to see opportunities or make rational decisions. It is also challenging to switch them off unless you have tools and techniques to help. 


Prolonged survival mode can take a toll on mental health, potentially leading to depression, burnout, or other psychological issues. Coming back from this point takes a. Lot. of. Work. Sometimes it’s easier to catch it and work on it before it gets to this point. 


The Burden on Money and Business:


Financial worries often intensify during survival mode. Clients may face income loss, mounting debt, or uncertainty about the viability of their business. That can then lead to questioning everything. 


Fear and uncertainty can lead to decision fatigue or decision paralysis in both personal and business matters. Clients may avoid making necessary financial choices, hindering progress and growth. Maybe it isn’t decision paralysis but just decision fatigue but this has an impact on change.


Survival mode can also strain personal relationships, as the stress from financial and emotional burdens spills over into interactions with all our relationships.


COACHING STRATEGIES

As a coach, I am surprised how many coaches don’t have basic financial literacy skills. These skills help you to make informed decisions during tough times. I’d encourage everyone in business to learn about budgeting, debt management, and long-term financial planning. 


Challenge thought patterns and help you to reframe their perspectives. Check out the questions of growth for what specific questions to ask. 


Lean on your support systems. That’s why we have classes each and every week of the year so that you can lean on us during stressful times, so we can help you get back inspired and energised about business. 


QUESTIONS OF GROWTH

  1. What is it specifically that is creating you to perceive survival?

  1. How does what you listed in question 1, serve you? Keep asking until you are certain the benefits and drawbacks are equal. 


These questions will begin to shift your mind from survival to thriving. And from the fight-flight-fright response to more long-term vision for your business and your life. 


We can sometimes stay stuck in this perpetual loop of survival, and it takes work to get you thinking differently. However, it takes energy and effort to survive.


So what would you prefer to do? The work to stay the same or the work to shift your thinking?

The Breakthrough Experience: Lessons Learned from The Breakthrough Experience

Last weekend I embarked on a whirlwind adventure, spanning 31 hours of travel, to immerse myself in the transformative The Breakthrough Experience with Dr. John Demartini. 

 

You might be wondering, “Why go to such lengths for just 22 hours in a room?” 

 

Well, as they say, sometimes you have to go the extra mile to smash through your growth ceilings blocking you from growing because…

 

A static state stifles the seeds of evolution. 

 

And deep down, I have the drive to evolve (you might relate?!). 

 

But I could feel stagnation creeping into my life, a subtle sense of plateauing in my personal and professional journey. 

 

The application of the Demartini Method in an intensely concentrated period of time has a way of shifting me, there and then and seeing the results, fast.

 

I see changes in my internal thinking, my business, my finances, and my relationships. 

 

As I navigated through the challenges of flight cancellations, airport sprints and 1 am wake-up calls, I clung to Demartini’s wisdom: “In every challenge, there is an opportunity.”

 

Entering the room filled with anticipation, like a kid on the eve of your birthday, knowing you have a new year ahead and wondering what life will be like at the new phase. 

 

One of the statements he made on the first day that still echoes in my mind is, “The moment you decide to master your time and attention, your life will change.”  

 

(funny – as we had worked on mastering priorities in our Business Class the week before, so it was a perfect message that aligned with our group learning)

 

The weekend challenged my perspectives, pushing me to reassess my priorities and redefine the areas where I invested my time and my energy.

 

As Richard Brandson says, ‘Time is the new money.’ But it is ‘time and energy is the new money.’

 

You can have a lot of time, and no energy, a lot of energy and no time. Both combined – wow!

 

It became clear that breaking through stagnation meant aligning my actions with my true values, fueling a renewed sense of purpose.

 

What is it that I truly value, and what is my true vision? Where do I really want to take my life over the next decade and beyond?

 

As he reminded us often, “The quality of your life is based upon the quality of the questions you ask.” 

 

Asking myself some uncomfortable and powerful questions helped me to get crystal clear about what I want, what i really, really want. (I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna really, really, really wanna zigazig ah).

 

I left The Breakthrough Experience with a new fire in my belly.

 

And isn’t it beautiful that when you make a decision, the people who are not aligned fall away, the people who are aligned, magnetise you? 

 

So, was it crazy to embark on a 31-hour pilgrimage for a mere 22 hours in a room? 

 

Yes, if it means more inspiration to share with you, I’d do it again next week.

 

What are you prepared to do to set a goal and sail?

 

If you would love to be aligned with your goals for 2024, then find out more details here.

 

Relationships Unveiled Part 4 of 4: Navigating the Labyrinth of Workplace Relationships

The workplace, with its intricate web of professional relationships, is a microcosm of human interactions. Just as children reflect our inner landscapes, siblings uncover our unresolved past, and intimate partners reveal our shadow selves, colleagues and superiors in the workplace bring forth their own unique dynamics. 

 

This is our last week of exploring the multifaceted world of Relationships Unveiled. Today, we explore workplace relationships, offering insights and strategies for personal growth and fulfilment.

 

The Workplace Mirror: Reflecting Professional Identities

Your workplace colleagues often serve as mirrors, reflecting back our professional identities. Our interactions with them reveal our communication styles, leadership qualities, and collaborative skills. 

 

Management guru Peter Drucker says, “The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn’t said.” Learning to read between the lines and use your intuition to check in with reading the room. 

 

Navigating Colleague Relationships:

Workplace relationships serve as a way to grow yourself. Constructive feedback is a powerful tool for personal and professional development. Embracing feedback as a means to grow can lead to stronger workplace relationships.

 

Plus, it is an opportunity to build a network of professional relationships can open doors to mentorship and growth. Especially if you are a coach and you are working on your own most of the time, having mentors and role models can guide you, share their experiences, and help you navigate your business.

 

Leadership Dynamics

Supervisors and managers hold a unique position in the workplace ecosystem. They not only guide the team but also influence its dynamics. Leadership qualities, both positive and negative, can have a profound impact on the work environment and employee morale.

 

But as a coach, you might not have someone to supervise you. As a psychologist, a doctors, most healthcare workers have supervisors. But coaches do no. Finding a coach who can supervise you, who can share their knowledge, guide you, and help you with your own self-care is essential as a leader. 

 

With leadership comes influence. In the workplace, you have the opportunity to initiate and guide change. You can influence your community, clients and your colleagues. 

 

In workplace relationships, success lies in self-awareness, effective communication, and leadership skills. By recognizing that colleagues and superiors serve as mirrors reflecting our professional identities, as we navigate relationships and step into our leadership, we can use our workplace relationships as a means for growth and influence. 

 

As philosopher Confucius wisely noted, “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” 

In the workplace, setbacks and challenges are opportunities for growth and learning. Embracing these opportunities, and harnessing the power of workplace relationships, can lead to a fulfilling career journey.

 

Remember that each relationship is a stepping stone on the path to personal and professional development. By nurturing these connections, you can not only excel in your career but also contribute to a positive and thriving community and culture.

Relationships Unveiled Part 3 of 4: The Power of Sibling Relationships

Let’s delve into the fascinating world of sibling relationships, drawing inspiration from both psychology and philosophy to provide valuable insights for coaches who seek to understand their clients facing challenges in work and home life.

 

When I reflected on the Relationships Unveiled series and thought about the niches coaches go into, it was interesting that there are many parenting coaches and relationship coaches, but how many sibling coaches do you know?

 

I can’t think of one. Can you?

 

Yet this relationship is your first peer relationship, the one you spend the most time with, that you have known and know you the longest. With such a foundational relationship, let’s deep dive into this together.  

 

In the realm of human psychology, sibling relationships have often been relegated to the sidelines, a lesser-explored facet of the intricate tapestry of human interactions. 

 

Sigmund Freud himself granted siblings mere passing mentions in his extensive body of work. 

 

I had to do some digging to find research on this topic and found recent decades have witnessed a profound awakening in the field as researchers begin to unveil the profound impact of siblings on one another’s lives. 

 

Karen Gail Lewis, Ph.D., a sibling therapist of five decades, has recently authored ‘Sibling Therapy,’ an eye-opening work that delves into how sibling dynamics significantly shape personalities and destinies. 

 

I know that, I have a complicated sibling dynamic. There was my older brother and I for 5.5 years. Then along came two younger siblings. But then I lived with my Dad, his new partner (AKA my new mumma bear) and brother full time. My mumma bear had a daughter who was 12 years older and was like a sister, friend, and mum all rolled into one. 


During my teen years, my brother was staying with his girlfriend a lot and wasn’t home. My sister was out of home and so I spent my teen years as, what felt like, being an only child. This definitely was formative in my ability to go inward. 

 

So it felt like lots of sibling relationships were coming and going.

 

Dr. Lewis beautifully unveils how early experiences and perceptions with our first companions lay the foundation for adult relationships, both at home and in the workplace.

 

The Sibling Crucible: A Laboratory of Life

Dr. Lewis believes that the sibling relationship is the crucible where individuals first learn to navigate the complex terrain of human interactions. It is during this formative period that children discover the art of conflict resolution, cooperation, negotiation, and competition. 

 

These skills, etched into their psyches during sibling interactions, often resurface in their adult relationships. This echoes the timeless wisdom of the philosopher Aristotle, who remarked, “We are what we repeatedly do..” Indeed, our early sibling experiences shape the habits that govern our later relationships, both at home and at work.

 

Parental Echoes: Recreating Sibling Dynamics

Parents, whether consciously or not, tend to project their own sibling experiences onto their children. Those who enjoy harmonious sibling bonds may expect the same for their offspring, while those burdened with sibling conflicts may fear their children will tread a similar path. 

 

Consequently, parents may inadvertently intensify normal sibling disagreements by intervening too hastily, inadvertently signalling to their children that they cannot resolve their issues independently.

 

Philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, said, “He who fights with monsters should be careful lest he thereby become a monster.” AKA, you become what you condemn. 

 

In their attempts to shield their children from the adversities they experience, parents may unknowingly perpetuate these very conflicts.

 

Sibling Dynamics in the Workplace

Sibling dynamics extend their tendrils into the professional arena as well. Research reveals that unresolved sibling issues from childhood can manifest as self-sabotage patterns in the workplace.

 

Neuroscientific studies have demonstrated that these patterns are deeply ingrained in the brain’s neural pathways, making them difficult to break free from without introspection and change in perspective. Luckily you have the Demartini Method, which does both. 

 

As coaches, understanding these deeply rooted patterns is instrumental in helping clients navigate workplace challenges.

 

Sibling as ‘First Marriage’ and Relationship Choices

Dr. Lewis refers to the sibling relationship as a “first marriage.” It is within this initial bond that individuals learn to live intimately with peers of the same generation. 

Philosophers like Simone de Beauvoir emphasized the importance of choice in relationships, and this extends to sibling dynamics. 

 

Adults may find that they unknowingly replicate patterns from their ‘first marriage’ in their choice of romantic partners. 

 

For instance, individuals who experienced abuse from a sibling may unconsciously gravitate towards abusive partners, echoing the philosopher George Santayana’s says, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

 

Sibling Dynamics in Friendships

Our early experiences with siblings can reverberate through our choices in friendships. Children who feel inferior to their siblings may, in adulthood, be drawn to friends who assert dominance and make decisions on their behalf. 

 

Understanding these dynamics can be vital for coaches working with clients who grapple with perceived toxic friendships, shedding light on the roots of these relationships.

 

The sibling relationship is a profound force that weaves through the tapestry of our lives. As a coach, armed with insights from both psychology and philosophy, can deeply understand their clients’ challenges, whether in the workplace or at home from a new lens. 

 

Recognizing the echoes of sibling dynamics in adulthood equips you to guide your clients toward self-awareness, healing, and fulfilling relationships. With this knowledge, you can empower your clients to embrace their early life experiences and rewrite the scripts of their lives.

Relationships Unvieled Part 2 of 4: The Mirror of Parenthood: Embracing Unconditional Self-Love Through Our Children

Parenthood, that remarkable journey of nurturing and guiding the next generation, is often filled with moments of profound self-discovery. 

 

As parents, we embark on this voyage with the intention of imparting wisdom and love to our children (or just doing the opposite of what our parents did haha). 

 

Yet, in the process, our little ones can become powerful mirrors, reflecting aspects of ourselves that we have long neglected or disowned. 

 

In this journey of reflection, children can be catalysts for our own growth and transformation, leading us on a path of unconditional self-love.

 

The Mirror Effect: Children As Reflectors

Children possess an uncanny ability to mirror our thoughts, behaviours, and emotions. They hold up a mirror to our subconscious, reflecting back to us aspects of ourselves that we may not have fully embraced or acknowledged. 

 

This phenomenon is not merely coincidental; it is deeply rooted in psychology.

 

Psychologist Carl Jung introduced the concept of the “shadow self” – the parts of our psyche that we have repressed or disowned due to societal conditioning or personal discomfort. 

 

Children, in their authenticity, often bring these shadow aspects to the surface. 

 

It can be as simple as a child exhibiting stubbornness when we, as parents, have strived to be accommodating. Or it can manifest as a child expressing vulnerability when we’ve habitually concealed our own.

 

The Lesson in Reflection: Embracing Disowned Parts

Children’s reflections can serve as valuable lessons. Rather than viewing these reflections with resistance or judgment, we can choose to explore them with curiosity and fascination

 

When a child exhibits a trait, action or inaction that triggers discomfort within us, it is an invitation to examine our own thoughts and experiences.

 

Perhaps we have been suppressing these very traits, actions or inactions due to societal expectations or past experiences.

 

As philosopher Søren Kierkegaard wisely noted, “Life can only be understood backward, but it must be lived forwards.” By engaging in this introspective journey, we can gradually uncover and integrate these disowned parts of ourselves. 

 

This process can be challenging, as it often requires us to confront long-buried emotions and unresolved experiences. It is through this that we find the path to love.

 

Parenting as Self-Reflection: Breaking the Cycle

In addition to mirroring our disowned parts, children can also challenge us to break free from cycles of generational patterns and conditioning. 

 

Many of us inherit behaviours and beliefs from our parents and ancestors, both positive and negative. Children, by their very presence, prompt us to question these patterns. 

 

Are we perpetuating cycles of emotional suppression, perfectionism, or inadequacy? Or are we actively working to create fulfilled environments for our children?

 

To quote philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, “Become who you are.” Parenthood can be a profound opportunity to become more authentically ourselves by shedding the layers of inherited expectations and embracing our true selves.

 

Unconditional Self-Love: The Ultimate Gift to Our Children

As we journey through self-reflection and integration of our disowned parts, we ultimately arrive at the destination of unconditional love. This form of love is not dependent on external validation or perfection.

 

It is a love that embraces our flaws, vulnerabilities, and imperfections, recognizing them as integral parts of our unique human experience.

 

When we model unconditional love, we gift our children with a powerful lesson – the importance of self-appreciation. This invaluable lesson equips them to navigate their own lives with resilience and authenticity, unburdened by the need for external approval and acceptance.

 

Conclusion: The Transformative Mirror of Parenthood

Parenthood is a profound journey of self-discovery and growth. Our children, as mirrors of our disowned parts, beckon us to embark on a voyage of self-reflection and integration. 

 

Through this process, we can break free from generational patterns and conditioning, ultimately arriving at the shores of unconditional love. 

 

In doing so, we not only transform ourselves but also gift our children with the wisdom and inner strength to embrace their own unique journeys with love and authenticity. 

 

As the philosopher Rumi reminds us, “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” 

 

Let us embrace the reflective power of parenthood and let the light of love illuminate our lives and the lives of our precious little ones.

 

P.S. At 15 weeks pregnant, Kate’s unborn baby had a heart condition. She decided to end the baby’s life against the medical team pushing for her to keep the baby. The client struggled with having to be the one to make it and felt she had taken someone’s life. She also didn’t feel supported by the medical team in the process. Watch the Hot Seat Class here.

Relationships Unveiled Part 1 of 4: How Intimate Relationships Reveal and Heal Our Repressed Parts

Over the next 4 weeks I’m going to be sharing a series of newsletters on ‘Relationships Unvield.’  

 

Each newsletter in the series explores this theme in a different context – children, siblings, intimate partners, workplace colleagues, and sexual expression and how the different types of relationships serve as mirrors, reflecting and shaping various aspects of our inner selves.

 

We start off with the individual closest to us, our intimate relationship. 

 

Intimate relationships are more than just romantic unions; they are profound mirrors reflecting our inner landscapes. 

 

These relationships have the ability to possess a unique power – they can illuminate the darkest corners of your soul, bringing to light the parts of ourselves that we may have long repressed or maybe even deemed unlovable. #canyoufeelthelovetonight

 

In the sacred space of intimacy, we have the opportunity to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, healing, and ultimately, embracing our whole selves.

 

The Reflective Power of Intimacy

Intimate relationships act as a mirror, offering us glimpses of our hidden, disowned parts. Intimate partners can bring to the surface aspects of ourselves that we may have buried due to societal conditioning, past trauma, or self-judgment.

 

These repressed parts often manifest as insecurities, fears, or unresolved emotional wounds.

 

Psychologist and philosopher William James famously said, “We are like islands in the sea, separate on the surface but connected in the deep.” 

 

Intimate relationships bridge the gap between these islands, exposing our interconnectedness and inviting us to explore deeper within ourselves to realise our whole self.

 

Confronting the Shadows: Embracing Our Repressed Parts

Intimate relationships provide a safe space to confront our shadows – those aspects of ourselves that we may have deemed unworthy of love. 

 

When our partners trigger feelings of insecurity, jealousy, or vulnerability, it is an invitation to look within and explore the origins of these emotions. 

 

Perhaps they stem from past perceived wounds or beliefs we adopted about ourselves.

 

Philosopher Carl Jung coined the term “individuation” to describe the process of integrating the different facets of our personality into a unified whole. 

 

Intimate relationships serve as catalysts for this process, prompting a journey of self-discovery and healing, if we choose. 

 

The Healing Power of Unconditional Love

Intimate partners play a unique role in our healing journey. When they witness and love our repressed parts, it can be profoundly transformative. 

 

This shows we are lovable and worthy of love, even in our perceived flaws and vulnerabilities.

 

When we receive unconditional love from our spouses, it becomes a catalyst for self-love. We begin to see that we are deserving of love not just in spite of our imperfections but because of them. #deeplove

 

Intimacy as a Journey of Self-Discovery

Intimate relationships are a journey, not a destination. 

 

As we explore our repressed parts within the context of a loving partnership, we become more intimately acquainted with ourselves. 

 

We uncover the layers of conditioning, insecurities, and fears that have shaped us, and in doing so, we gain the power to reshape our narratives.

Philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre famously said, “We are our choices.” In intimate relationships, we are confronted with choices – to confront our shadows, to heal, and to love unconditionally. 

Each choice we make brings us closer to embracing our whole selves and, in turn, enriches the depth of our intimacy. 

 

Questions of Growth

Here are some questions to ask to grow in your relationship.

  1. What is my relationship reflecting to me?
  2. What parts am I trying to hide from my spouse or the world that they are bringing to the surface for me to face?
  3. How is my spouse helping me to unconditionally love myself and/or others.

 

Intimate relationships are alchemical laboratories where the lead of our repressed and unloved parts can be transformed into the gold of self-love and acceptance. 

 

They hold the power to reveal, heal, and ultimately integrate these hidden aspects of ourselves, enabling us to become more complete and loving beings.

 

In the sacred space of intimacy, we learn that to love another deeply, we must first love and embrace our own repressed parts. 

 

In doing so, we unlock the potential for profound personal growth and the kind of love that transcends illusions and limitations.

 

In the sacred space of intimacy, we learn that to love another deeply, we must first love and embrace our own repressed parts. 

 

In doing so, we unlock the potential for profound personal growth and the kind of love that transcends illusions and limitations. 

So, as a coach, or as a spouse, I hope that you found this valuable.

 

Until next week.

 

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

I Can’t Believe This Happened

Have you ever sat down to do ‘the work’ but then…

 

Oh, you forgot your water. 

 

Off you go to fill up your bottle.  

 

Back at your Demartini Method form, you start thinking about what you want to work on. 

 

A colleague? A friend? A leader?…’

 

Your phone beeps with a notification.     

 

You check it. It’s a message from a client. Better respond. 

 

Back to form again. 

 

Rumble. 

 

What’s that sound? 

 

Rumble. Rumble. 

 

What’s going on? Where is that sound coming from? 

 

Rumble. Rumble. Rumble.

 

Of course! It’s my belly! 

 

Better go eat. Can’t work when I’m hungry.  

 

Off to make a snack.

 

And then you’ve 30 minutes into applying the Demartini Method and you haven’t even selected the trait, action or inaction. 

 

This was me recently when I went to sit down to do the work. 

 

But what’s going on? 

 

Distraction. Yes. That’s obvious. 

 

Seeking pleasure. At times. Yes.

 

Let’s deep dive into this as I know you’ve had moments like this in your journey of applying the work. 

 

What’s the problem behind the problem?

 

  1. Afraid of shining your light in the world? Because with you light comes accountability and responsibility. And that’s scary.
  2. Worried about the changes to your life? Maybe it’s outgrowing your life, your philosophies, your friends. Maybe it means less time with your children. Not embracing the change and holding tightly onto the current experience. 
  3. Comparison with how sllllloooowww you are at doing the work compared to others. But this old chestnut isn’t something that shows up here when you’re doing the work when you do business, friendships, or life. 

 

Have you thought of this {name}… 

 

Maybe how you show up and do the Demartini Method is how you do life? 

  1. Run from it 
  2. Stay stuck 
  3. Talk about it but don’t do it
  4. Devote to it and stick at it even when it’s tough

 

Maybe all these show up in your life where you run from challenges and problems, choose to stay stuck and not move, mentally masticate but don’t take action in business and life, or devote to the things that you value, roll up your sleeves and do the hard work that it takes to grow and get your service to the world. 

 

Marriam Williamson said it perfectly ‘We are more afraid of our light than our dark.’ 

 

But a little wisdom from Abraham Lincoln “you’re not bound to succeed, you are bound to live up to the light within you.”  

 

QUESTIONS OF GROWTH 

 

Here are some Demartini Method Questions you can ask yourself.

 

  • If not now? When?

 

  • If not, who? Why not you? 



So, in those moments of distraction, when you find yourself avoiding work that could potentially change your life… 

 

Remember, Maximum Growth is here, week in, week out to hold your hand or your feet to the fire to do the inner work. 

 

And if you are scared, if you are resisting, just on the edge of that is greatness

 

It’s time to shine brightly, to step into your power, and to share your story with the world. The world needs your light, and it’s your responsibility to let it shine.

 

The journey will be worth it.

 

Tanya ‘Counsellort’ Cross

 

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

The Unveiling Truth: Gossip, Reflection, and Coaching

 

 

In the world of coaching, we often find ourselves peeling back the layers of our clients’ lives, seeking to uncover the mysteries that lie beneath the surface. 

 

But what about the stories that swirl around a client, or even yourself? 

 

People love talking about other people. 


Especially when they put them in a pit, to indirectly build themselves up.

 

But how do you know what they are saying is true?

 

When I first started doing ‘the work,’ there were whispers and rumours about me, lots of untruths. 

 

Maybe you can relate to the intrigue that surrounds a seemingly quiet person who chooses to form deep connections rather than share themselves with the world.

 

One day, a close friend approached me with an unsettling revelation.

 

What gossip does, it allows us to own more of ourselves. 

 

Because no matter what someone says about it is true on some level.

 

But hey, wait?! Are you confused?

 

Yes, what someone was spreading was untrue, in the form they were saying. 

 

When you find yourself at the center of that story, it’s natural to deflect, to say, “That’s not me.” 

 

BUT… here’s the thing: every trait, action, or inaction, no matter how foreign it may seem, resides within us. To deny this is to deny ourselves.

 

Understanding why people gossip is the key to unravelling the hidden truths beneath their words. Perhaps it’s jealousy, but often, it’s more complex than that. 

 

Today, let’s shine a light on the deeper reasons people engage in gossip, reasons that may help you comprehend when someone is caught in the cycle of chatter.

 

  • Anxiety: Gossip can be a way for individuals to cope with their anxieties, a distraction from their own worries.
  • Need for Emotional Connection: Some seek emotional connection and validation through gossip, feeling a sense of belonging when they share or listen to others’ stories.
  • Desire to Fit In: It’s easier to talk about someone else’s life than confront the uncomfortable aspects of our own. Gossip helps people fit in by participating in a shared narrative.
  • A Bid to Be Liked: By bringing information to the group, gossip hopes to be accepted and liked, often driven by the fear of being an outcast.
  • Jealousy: Sometimes, jealousy fuels gossip, as people try to bring others down to their level.

Now, let’s turn the spotlight inward and reflect on ourselves as coaches using some powers and adaptations of the Demartini Method to help transform your experience. 

  • What has someone gossiped about you? Take a moment to recall those rumours or stories that circulated about you. What did they reveal about your hidden traits or actions?
  • Where and when have you displayed or demonstrated the trait, action, or inaction? Reflect on times when you might have showcased the very qualities others gossiped about. This is a powerful opportunity for self-discovery.
  • What have you gossiped about someone? We’ve all been there. Consider the moments when you engaged in gossip about others.
  • What was the underlying reason for your behaviour? Explore the deeper motivations behind your gossip: was it to establish an emotional connection, fit in, be liked, deflect, or be driven by jealousy?

 

As coaches, it’s our role to seek the hidden mysteries beneath the surface issues our clients present. 

 

The next time someone approaches you with their story, remember to look beyond what’s apparent. 

 

When someone shares ‘gossip’ or talks in a ‘negative’ light about someone, then, look deeper as to their intentions.  

 

In the world of coaching, understanding the problem behind the problem what where the real magic happens. 

 

Embrace the power of introspection, and you’ll be better equipped to guide your clients on their own transformative journeys. Seek the deeper meaning, the truths concealed within, and you’ll uncover the profound insights that can lead to genuine transformation.

 

Tanya x

 

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Which pattern are you?

During our recent Mindset Class, one of our members shared a common challenge they faced with a business partner. They considered their partners exceptional, particularly in sales, while they excelled in handling the systems and processes. 

 

This situation is a familiar occurrence in business partnerships – we often believe that our collaborator possesses the skills or qualities we lack. 

 

For solopreneurs, the perception of lacking specific skills or support can also arise, creating a sense of 

 

In the business world, patterns of interaction between you and your business partner, or if you are flying solo, one side you’re expressing and repressing, are referred to as “relationship patterns.” 

 

Relationship patterns are patterns of interaction that show up again and again and from a pattern. Pretty simple, hey! 

 

Recent research suggests that labelling (OMG – yes, labelling serves a purpose) and understanding these relationship patterns can hold significant value for you as a coach and business owner.

 

It not only enhances the business relationship’s health but also affects the well-being of both partners.

 

How you understand your Relationship Pattern Labeling for Businesses thoroughly examines how you and your business partners engage with each other (or with your clients if you’re a solopreneur). 

 

Once you know which label you fit under, you can know how to communicate when someone isn’t communicating with you in a way you like and understand why you might feel so challenged. 

 

Let’s delve into the 12 RPLs and identify which patterns resonate most with your business dynamic. I thought I’d give you an insight into Justin and my dynamic. (Note: If you’re a solopreneur, then there will be one part you do, and one part is missing.) 

  1. Navigator/Explorer: One partner seeks regular updates and engagement, while the other values autonomy. (Navigator – Justin / Explorer – Justin & Me )

  2. Strategist/Tactician: One partner is inclined toward long-term planning, while the other excels in tactical execution. (Strategist – Justin / Tactician – Me )

  3. Innovator/Traditionalist: Partners differ in their embracing of new ideas and methods. (Innovator – Justin & Me / Traditionalist – Justin)

  4. Risk-Taker/Cautious: One partner is inclined to take bold risks, while the other prefers a cautious approach. (Risk-Taker – Justin / Cautious – Me )

  5. Collaborator/Soloist: One partner thrives in collaborative efforts, while the other excels individually. (Collaborator – Justin / Soloist – Me )

  6. Visionary/Pragmatist: One partner envisions ambitious future goals, while the other focuses on practical steps. (Visionary – Justin & Me /Pragmatist- Justin & Me)

  7. Pioneer/Follower: One partner spearheads innovation, while the other prefers adopting proven strategies. (Pioneer – Me / Follower – Justin)

  8. Investor/Entrepreneur: Partners differ in their resource allocation preferences – one is more conservative, while the other is more daring. (Investor – Me & Justin / Entrepreneur)

  9. Specialist/Generalist: One partner excels in a particular niche, while the other has a broader skill set. (Specialist/Generalist – Me & Justin)

  10. Lead/Support: One partner takes the lead while the other provides vital support. (Lead – Me /Support – Justin)

  11. Local/Global: One partner emphasizes local market engagement, while the other pursues global opportunities. (Local  – Me & Justin / Global – Me & Justin)

  12. Traditional/Disruptive: One partner values traditional business approaches, while the other embraces disruptive changes. (Traditional / Disruptive – Me)

 

You may identify with more than one pattern. 

 

Look at an example and take the “Navigator/Explorer” relationship pattern.

Suppose you’re a life coach and often collaborate with a coaching partner, Alex. In this partnership, you play the role of the Navigator. You believe in maintaining regular contact with your clients, scheduling frequent follow-up sessions, and providing constant guidance and support. You believe this level of engagement is essential to helping clients achieve their goals.

 

On the other hand, Alex is the Explorer in your coaching partnership. They value autonomy and believe clients should have the space to explore and make decisions. They prefer a coaching style that encourages clients to lead their personal development journeys.

 

This dynamic can sometimes create tension. As the Navigator, you might feel frustrated when Alex’s coaching approach appears less involved than yours. You might think that clients need more guidance and structure, while Alex believes in allowing clients to find their own path.

 

Recognizing these distinct coaching relationship patterns is essential for successful coaching practice. 

 

Instead of conflicting coaching styles, you can leverage both Navigator and Explorer approaches when working with clients.

 

Some clients may benefit from a more hands-on, structured approach, while others may thrive with greater autonomy and self-discovery. 

 

This flexibility in coaching styles allows you to better meet your clients’ diverse needs and preferences, ultimately leading to more positive coaching outcomes.

 

In conclusion, business relationships are multifaceted. Utilizing the RPL concept can’t perfectly encapsulate your dynamic, but it can foster empathy and ultimately contribute to a more fulfilling and collaborative business journey.

 

QUESTIONS OF GROWTH 

  1. Define your (and if you have a partner, their) relationship pattern label.

  2. Identify what is missing for you, e.g., innovation, strategy, risk-taking.

  3. This is a question in the Demartini Method Patterns and dynamics offer a valuable framework for understanding your role, where your strengths lie and where you need help.

 

As John C. Maxwell, once said, “Teamwork makes the dream work.” 

 

Having a team that aligns with you will amplify your opportunities for synergy and growth. 

At Maximum Growth, we love being on your mindset team, working silently in the background with you, so you can go and deliver your service out to the world.

Nothing Is Missing, What Are You Searching For?