Summer Summary
This month marks one year since I launched this coaching practice.
There have been years of iterations before I’ve offered this work in this specific format but to really put something out with its own title, fee and website is a feat that requires what I’ve come to recognize and acknowledge as self-esteem. I didn’t necessarily know this before I launched, but I’ve noticed how it has stabilized and supported me in this first year of incredible growth.
According to the University of Queensland, “Self-esteem refers to whether you appreciate and value yourself. Your self-esteem develops and changes as a result of your life experiences and interactions with other people.” The University also defines and differentiates self-confidence as belief in yourself and your abilities. Adding that “it’s normal to feel quite confident in some circumstances and less confident in others.”
Esteem refers to respect and admiration towards a person, in this case, the Self. Healthy self-esteem works to bolster our self-confidence as we face challenges and to support choices that pull us just beyond our current abilities and comforts into fulfilling and rewarding growth (including failures). In this sense, self-esteem is a reflection of the patient, cumulative, evolving, and ongoing growth throughout our lifespan. It also reflects trust and belief in our own work.
During my ‘offline’ summer, I’ve come across people who are also growing into this version of confidence. It’s quiet, unapologetic, consistent, focused, and flexible. These interactions and exchanges feel like the fruits and flowers of continued growth.
My favourite thing about it is that it has a patient and radiating quality that produces not just results but peaceful and powerful connectivity.
Interestingly, connecting this way feels like clean, sustainable energy and this is the energy I plan to carry forward into the fall as I continue coaching, teaching, parenting, and most recently a ‘therapist in training’ towards my Masters of Counselling Psychology(!)
I have so much to feel, think and say about this ongoing work and vision, and I invite you to reach out to talk, think, and dream about it all with me.
Thank you for being here. I love growing with you.