DirectorsMessage102811

“We all seem normal, until you get to know someone"¹

Do you read personal online entries on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and/or someone’s blog and think that this person “has it together.” Yet it’s a small world after all, and you may know that person. He or she may be living the life of Riley (or may not); it's their story to tell and their “once upon a time.”

What do I mean about “story to tell”? Well, the notion of stories is that there is the real world and then there is our perspective of the real world. There are stories about you, your practice, career, patients, relationships, failures, successes, marriages, friendships, heartbreaks (our life events), and it’s those stories that pave powerful connections for success or destruction.

“The power and meaning of our stories can hold us back or set us free,” Jim Loehr says, “Everyone’s got a story."²

Recently, my position was eliminated. My employer, a healthcare company, re-organized, and the job I enjoyed immensely was gone. My work story shifted to my responsibility, and to the 12 people who were in my department. I immediately did everything in my power to either get them re-assigned within the organization or in an external job. Yet, the real world began seeping in, and I decided to put on my oxygen mask so my story had to change again.

The most exciting part of this “position elimination situation,” is getting my story straight; in the areas of my career and professional contributions and engagement with my family and friends. I’m now writing a story to complete the most important missions in my life. I am crafting a different story.

So, here is an invitation: Do you NEED a new story?

Is there an area in your life where you could create a new story?

Start by writing down or telling the story as it is now. All of it. The story might be around a specific patient. A colleague. A certain event, situation, or series of events. Is it in your marriage, health, and or career? Continue writing your “old story.” Once completed, re-write or re-tell one sentence, one piece, one theme, one emotion, or even the ending. You have the power to tell, to write, and to share an amazing epic — your new story. It's a new story where you can intentionally invest your full energy and best energy right here right now.

“History will be kind to me ... for I intend to write it!” Winston Churchill said.

It would be a privilege to read your stories, so if you are inspired to email me one of your stories, my inbox is always open.

Regards,
Kristine A. Hodsdon RDH, BS
Director, RDH eVillage.

1. Kets De Vries, M, F.R., On the Couch with Manfred. Symposium conducted at the Harvard Medical School and Mclean Hospital. Coaching in Medicine and Leadership, Boston Mass.
2. Loehr, J., Leadership & Well-Being: The Power of Story. Symposium conducted at the Harvard Medical School and Mclean Hospital. Coaching in Medicine and Leadership, Boston Mass.