There are many challenges associated with transforming an old and outdated internal narrative emanating from a childhood story. Perhaps the most public of all involves dealing with the appearance of what can be described as ‘inconvenient truths’ requiring an unimaginable and seemingly intolerable exposure of the Self. Inconvenient truths in this context are the ones that everyone would prefer to remain hidden or unspoken, especially you yourself! But as hard as you try to conceal something, you continue to suffer for fear of it being revealed or voiced. Paradoxically, over time, the act of concealment becomes an effort akin to trying to hold an inflatable beach ball under water; it requires constant attention, and is quite difficult in the first place. If you are fortunate enough, you get tired of the relentless effort and eventually let go.

The alternative to letting go and allowing the ball to come to the surface is the risk of exhausting and consequently drowning yourself in your attempt to conceal. This sets the context for Story-work and why it is so imperative. Why risk drowning when you can simply rise to the surface and swim freely like never before, unencumbered by pointless exertions? It is liberating when you stop hiding or denying things you want to conceal. The most powerful and effective people, Story-sharers and Story-guides alike, are the ones who are willing to look at, take in and voice what they have been suppressing or concealing. This is when Story-work comes into its own.

Excerpt from ‘Where Did You Learn To Behave Like That? – A Coaching Guide For Leaders”  by Sarah Hill