Everyone carries the residual effects of some kind of trauma in their life. Our birth into this world was in itself traumatic, full of crying and pain. Yet, if we are here, we overcame the trauma of birth in order to survive and be where we are today.
There are other traumas we might experience, beyond the initial bursting forth into this world on our day of birth. We navigate an array of childhood experiences that build up into memories and lessons, guiding the choices we make and the relationships we form. Some of us undergo what are known as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), which can scar our perception even as we mature out of youth-hood. Fueled by the instinctual fear of avoiding further pain, we might veer into adverse directions that are more of an escape than an intention.
Many people adopt coping mechanisms early on to navigate difficult patterns in their familial structures, which can impact communication skills later in life. While views differ on how much ACEs play a part in our resulting adult selves, the facts are we all had childhoods. And we all have memories, ranging from sweet to salty. Healing from any degree of early life trauma paves the way to peace of mind. Getting to know why we are the way we are provides potential for our highest levels of personal and career development.
I invite you today to check in with yourself and reflect upon any tendencies or habits you have that bother you. For example, do you avoid cleaning your desk? Do you spend heaps of time worrying about what other people think about you? Does your competitive nature get in the way of your enjoyment?
The key to overcoming your personal obstacles might be looking into your tender years. Resolving certain past struggles can help you advance into the next best version of your grownup self. It’s important not to get lost in the past, but simply to glean knowledge from your experiences, to say thank you for the learning, and to be grateful for the you that you are today. Such a process of reflection and discovery takes work, but the rewards are priceless and sustainable.
While it can be hard to ask for help, professional success depends upon your personal care. Your physical and mental health contribute to your performance levels and overall job satisfaction. Whether you are in the process of seeking work or shifting into a new incarnation of your career journey, know that you are deserving of therapy, coaching, healing, recovery, a listening ear, swim lessons, a meditation session—or whatever else it takes to guide you through to the next evolution of a healthier you. Realize that you are worthy.
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