Take a Fresh Look
When we get to know something, or someone, really well it is almost certain that we know longer 'know' it, or them, at all. Everything changes all the time and yet it is easy to fall into the trap of believing our own memories and preconceptions, rather than re-examining the evidence on a regular basis. Being genuinely able to take a step back and see things afresh is a a challenge, but it is also a habit that is worth the effort.
Single Session Therapy blog by a Seaford Counsellor
I'm a seaford counsellor and brief therapist. I work with clients at my Seaford office and worldwide via Skype. Contact me for a free first session.
Learning from Nature
There is nothing new in taking lessons from the natural world, after all our species has been doing is for ever. We all know, at some level, where to go when we seek healing or solace. We instinctively turn to nature – through walking, travel, or just sitting in the park – when we are troubled or when we are getting over something. So why wait until our spirit is broken before we decide to fix it? Being mindful of our surroundings is a habit anyone can develop.
Handout – Plan a Sensitive Conversation
It can be tricky if you have to approach someone about a sensitive topic. It may be work-related, like their performance, personal hygiene or some aspect of their behaviour. Or it may be personal... the range of topics is limitless. Use this handout to help you prepare; it includes suggestions to point you in the right direction. There is no substitute for natural empathy and your own creativity, so relax and have a proper conversation.
Do, Change, Mend or Bake Things
Hobbies and pastimes are valuable, specially when we regularly take time for them. If you don’t do something that involves focused concentration on something you enjoy doing, consider starting. Autumn is a great time to prepare, and the benefits go way beyond the actual practice of a task or skill. They include wellbeing, creativity and even making new friends.
Curiosity Never Killed Many Cats
Curiosity separates people from the herd. It is what drives creativity, motivation, discovery, excitement, learning and much more. "Curiosity killed the cat" was probably dreamt up by people who wanted to hang onto power and keep the masses in line. Genuine interest is what made some cultures great and the same goes for individuals, so cultivate curiosity wherever you can.
It’s Normal (probably)
It's easy to feel alone with our problems. But though we might feel they are unique, they are probably more common that we realise. We are all individuals and to some extent our individuality defines us, but that shouldn't stop us looking for help or guidance when we need it.
Count Your Successes – An Exercise
A 'success' doesn't mean saving someone's life or completing a work of art, it can be anything, great or small, that worked for you or has benefitted others. Training your mind to do this and reap the benefits.
What Do You Want to Keep in Your Life?
It is easy and natural to focus only on problems when they arise, but it can mean that we neglect what is important to us. When we want to change a situation – get rid of or lose something – it's just as important to think about what we want to keep. If not, we risk losing something valuable.
