The Storyteller: Embracing Authentic Friendships and True Expression
The Storyteller, authentic friendships, personal growth, saying YES to yourself, compromised friendships, honesty in friendships
Hi there! Storytelling can be many things. It can empower unique expression, inspire greatness, teach something, or bore you to tears! I invite you to review your life and all the diverse friendships you’ve had. Each one of them has impacted you in some way to become who you are now. In fact, each person has left behind a story, or a narrative laden with emotions (the positive and negative!) that has seeped into your memories and formed beliefs about friendship.
One of my mentors, Christopher Vogler, author of “The Writer’s Journey,” taught me how to develop and write stories as a hero’s journey based on Joseph Campbell’s work. I’ve applied this model to look at my own life. Start by finding a story in each past relationship (platonic and romantic) then see yourself as a hero in the journey. This simple exercise will reveal some overlooked insights and perspectives to consider gaining a greater understanding of your journey with friends. Some questions to ask yourself:
1. Why was a past friendship or relationship satisfying or unfulfilling?
2. What lessons did you learn? Or not?
3. Did you repeat the same relationship with other people before having better friendships?
Growth happens when you least expect it!
The philosopher, Friedrich Nietzsche famously said, “To live is to suffer. To survive is to find some meaning in the suffering.”
Each friendship grows and shapes your identity with opportunities to learn something new about yourself. As you evolve into being your own best friend, the quality of connections also evolves. I invite you to celebrate your authenticity and be true to your uniqueness, as it's the foundation of forming meaningful friendships.
One essential step towards authentic friendships is saying YES to yourself. Embrace your needs, desires, and dreams without hesitation. When we love and accept ourselves wholeheartedly, we attract friends who resonate with our true essence.
Let's also shed light on compromised friendships. Honesty is the lifeline of any genuine connection. It's through open communication that we can cultivate bonds that stand the test of time.
Embrace your unique story and nurture connections that enrich your life in beautiful, unimaginable ways! Championing you to step out of your comfort zone, enjoy life and have more fun! Thank you for the opportunity!
#TheStoryteller #AuthenticFriendships #EmbraceYourself
