FINDING LOST SPIRIT

Often when we suffer a loss from which it seems especially difficult to recover, it is our spirit that escapes us; that essence within – unseen, indescribable, but fully recognized in absence. We feel somewhat like Peter Pan without his shadow. If only we could find it and somehow “sew” it back on.

Devastating loss can carry with it a residue of guilt. What did I do to cause the loss? A more insidious kind of guilt comes from feeling we have no right to be happy again in the wake of such dire circumstances. We douse even the tiniest spark of joy, feeling that it is inappropriate or disrespectful. Danger lurks in this kind of guilt becoming so ingrained that we numb our feelings all together. Life seems flat and one dimensional. All the color is missing.

You can reclaim your spirit. The first step is a complete medical check-up. Countless dis-eases of the body can result in feelings of apathy, listlessness, fatigue, or depression. Once any underlying health concerns are ruled out or treated, you can formulate an action plan to rediscover your spirit.

Begin by recalling three times in your life when you experienced flow. That is, when you felt 100% in the moment and everything seemed to be working to your advantage. Life was good. Now ask yourself what was the common denominator of these three experiences.

For me, performing before a live audience, the first time my writing was ever published and teaching (writing workshops, fitness classes or Sunday school) are the times I experienced flow. It might seem I crave a captive audience, but with some introspection I discovered my satisfaction came in giving people what they want, and maybe don't know they need.
Writing, however, was different from the immediate contact afforded by my other examples, and in recognizing this, I realized the “audience” feedback was an important factor. While my writing often solicits responses too, they are not as immediate.

From there, the decision to become a life coach was a no brainer. Now it's my job to give people what they want, and I get the satisfaction of communicating one on one or to groups that feedback on the spot.

Becoming and working as a coach has been my personal path for reclaiming my spirit, recovering a sense of purpose and learning to enjoy life again after a profound loss.

The first step in the Self C.A.R.E © program is finding Clarity. In the search for your elusive spirit, begin with a journey through your past. The second step is learning to take only the action which is Authentic to your purpose. This will carry you forward to your passion and the rediscovery of your elusive spirit.

With Positve Action Plans You Can Recraft Your Life and Reclaim Your Spirit

To find out more about Coaching and Profound Loss visit Living Well