The Stories We Tell Ourselves

In the intricate tapestry of our lives, there’s a quiet force that shapes how we think, feel, and act: the stories we tell ourselves.

These internal narratives, often formed from assumptions, past experiences, and unconscious beliefs, can either empower us or keep us stuck. They influence everything from how we interpret situations to how we show up in relationships and make decisions in our careers.

The Power of Internal Narratives

I was recently in a coaching session with a client where this came to life in a powerful way. As we explored their inner world, it became clear that a particular story they were telling themselves was deeply influencing their emotions and behaviour.

With courage, they named it.
With curiosity, they questioned it.
And with clarity, they began to choose a new way forward.

This is the heart of inner work.

Why This Matters

The narratives you carry shape your reality, often without you realising it. Whether it’s a belief like “I’m not good enough”, “They don’t value me”, or “I have to do it all alone,” these stories impact your confidence, your choices, and your relationships.

But here’s the good news:
You can change the story.

One powerful way to do this is to pause and name it:

“The story I’m telling myself is…”

This simple sentence creates distance between you and your thoughts. That distance gives you room to ask:

  • Is this story true?
  • Is it helpful?
  • Is there another way to look at this?
  • What story would serve me better?

Rewriting Your Story

This work isn’t about toxic positivity or ignoring hard truths. It’s about meeting yourself honestly and choosing compassion over criticism, curiosity over certainty, and growth over fear.

When you begin to rewrite the stories you’ve inherited or internalised, you open up new possibilities – in your work, your relationships, and your sense of self.

A Gentle Reflection

Take a moment today to consider:

  • What’s a story I’ve been telling myself lately?
  • Where did it come from?
  • Is it helping me live in alignment with my values?
  • What new story do I want to tell instead?

You don’t need to have all the answers.
You just need to start with awareness.

Because when you change your inner narrative, you change your outer life.

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