So happy you made it through the twisties, Jess - and in such a spectacular way! I love what you have uncovered searching for your own story.
I am especially taken with your statement that you search for the story that is "underneath the surface, the one that has meaning and relevance and explains both the truth and all attempts to hide it." We tend to view stories as superficial and that clearly is not what calls to you. Uncovering attempts we use to hide our true story is a fascinating addition to your thinking and work. I so look forward to reading where your new clarity leads you...!
Thank YOU, Cathy, for all of the encouragement and nudging along the way. That last part came from our conversation with the Sirens on Saturday. Jamie said an added piece was about finding the meaning of the story, but when I reflected on that, I realized that wasn't ALL its about. There are so many stories in my own life that I've buried, altered, or minimize for some reason or another, and I think that's why part of what I've always done is call bullshit on the layers and dive until I find the pearl. It's a critical part of who I am and what I do, and I want to elevate that in what I offer moving forward.
You mentioned at one point that you had been seeing fragments of yourself (my word, not yours) when you were looking for something more all-encompassing (again, my word, not yours). I just saw an image in my mind's eye of a beautiful diamond, all its facets shining in a profusion of brilliant, multicolored light. To me, you are that diamond - and all those facets are part of that beauty.😍
Oh Cathy, what a lovely vision to hold on to as I continue to build on this new language and new understanding. Thank you for seeing that in me. Now, to convince Pat I need some new bling to go with the new job title. 😉
Great essay, Jess. I love these lines in particular: "But, if I’m honest with myself, I’m never going to invest in SEO optimization, cold call lists, or LinkedIn ads. I invest in relationships, and I trust that my work will bring me repeat customers." That's it, exactly. SEO optimization is a bit overrated in my humble opinion.
Wow, Jess. This is a powerful, kimono opening, utterly trusting your readers piece. Thanks for sharing.
That’s an interesting perspective, Meg. All along, I’ve been seeing it as asking you to trust me.
Is t it funny how we all view things differently?
It certainly is!
Lovely piece, Jess! Savour the truth and story that you have uncovered now...
Thank you! I definitely plan to keep leaning in.
So happy you made it through the twisties, Jess - and in such a spectacular way! I love what you have uncovered searching for your own story.
I am especially taken with your statement that you search for the story that is "underneath the surface, the one that has meaning and relevance and explains both the truth and all attempts to hide it." We tend to view stories as superficial and that clearly is not what calls to you. Uncovering attempts we use to hide our true story is a fascinating addition to your thinking and work. I so look forward to reading where your new clarity leads you...!
Thank YOU, Cathy, for all of the encouragement and nudging along the way. That last part came from our conversation with the Sirens on Saturday. Jamie said an added piece was about finding the meaning of the story, but when I reflected on that, I realized that wasn't ALL its about. There are so many stories in my own life that I've buried, altered, or minimize for some reason or another, and I think that's why part of what I've always done is call bullshit on the layers and dive until I find the pearl. It's a critical part of who I am and what I do, and I want to elevate that in what I offer moving forward.
You mentioned at one point that you had been seeing fragments of yourself (my word, not yours) when you were looking for something more all-encompassing (again, my word, not yours). I just saw an image in my mind's eye of a beautiful diamond, all its facets shining in a profusion of brilliant, multicolored light. To me, you are that diamond - and all those facets are part of that beauty.😍
Oh Cathy, what a lovely vision to hold on to as I continue to build on this new language and new understanding. Thank you for seeing that in me. Now, to convince Pat I need some new bling to go with the new job title. 😉
Great essay, Jess. I love these lines in particular: "But, if I’m honest with myself, I’m never going to invest in SEO optimization, cold call lists, or LinkedIn ads. I invest in relationships, and I trust that my work will bring me repeat customers." That's it, exactly. SEO optimization is a bit overrated in my humble opinion.
Agreed!