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 As coaches, one of our most important roles is to assist clients in finding new
perspectives; new ways in which to perceive a situation. Creating new
perspectives allows a client to be more at choice regarding how she feels about
a decision or challenge. Paradigm shifts enable our creative minds to be engaged
in the process of problem solving.
One imaginative way to go about the process of creating new perspectives is by
calling upon our Spirit Allies. I was introduced to and captivated by this
process in reading Barbara Sher's book, Live the Life You Love. In essence,
Spirit Allies are imaginary friends for grown-ups. They are spirits, of your
choosing, that represent in their uniqueness, different ways of looking at a
situation.
Here is a simplified outline of this creative process:
- Create a list of characteristics that your perfect Spirit Allies would have.
- Then, create a list of Spirit Allies. Use people that are important to you,
living or dead such as figures from history, someone special from your
childhood, or a favorite character from your favorite book or movie. Have fun
with this step -- you can choose anyone you want so don't hold back!
- Record a few sentences about why you chose each character and what makes them
relevant to you.
- Make a rough sketch of a room in which you spend the most time. Next, place
each Spirit Ally in position within this room. Where would each sit? Record this
in your sketch.
You have now created your own "Room with A View." To be more accurate, this room
now has many views. When called upon, each character can provide a unique
perspective and opinion for any given situation. What to do when facing a major
career transition? You may ask Abe Lincoln. Stuck on a piece of artwork that you
can't seem to finish? See what Picasso has to say. Need to see your reaction to
your last breakup through someone else's eyes? Perhaps John Lennon has some
insight.
Okay, one might argue that this process is just another way of talking to
oneself. Fine. But it is far richer, with more color and possibility. And,
because our minds are naturally curious about people and their stories, it will
cooperate with you more readily if you have fun by allowing yourself to create
drama and dialogue.
Coaching Questions: How might having a room full of Allies serve you? Who would
you call upon and why?
 To reply to this Pathway, use our
Feedback Form. To learn more about our
Creativity Coaching Programs and to
arrange for a complementary Creativity coaching session, use our
Contact Form or
Email Erika.
May you be filled with goodness, peace, and joy.
Erika Jackson
(Erika@LifeTrekCoaching.com)
LifeTrek Coaching International
Columbus, OH
U.S.A.
Telephone: 614-565-9953
Fax: 208-977-7793
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