”Finally I am coming to the conclusion that my highest ambition is to be what I already am….For it is the unaccepted self that stands in my way—and will continue to do so as long as it is not accepted. When it has been accepted—it is my own stepping stone to what is above me.”
—Thomas Merton, from A Search for Solitude: The Journals of Thomas Merton, October 2, 1958

I love these lines from Merton’s journal and the paradox he highlights—that in the act of fully accepting ourselves we discover an even deeper and wider self…and begin to live from there.

What would it look like for you to practice being what you already are?

For me right now, I'm thinking about it in terms of building my coaching practice (I’m taking new clients!) and accepting the way I want to do things.

I've definitely considered getting back on social media or trying some new platform or marketing plan, and each time I've looked into it, it just falls flat for me. 

I am drawn to doing things the old-fashioned way—with word-of-mouth and asking for referrals and sending a newsletter out.

I printed out business cards and I've been telling people about what I do and that I’m taking new clients. And then I’m asking if they know anyone who might be interested.

Revolutionary, right?!

I'm excited to see how it unfolds, and in the meantime, I'm enjoying the invitation to be what I am, even in the way I share my work (otherwise known as marketing). 

With care,
Brianna

Photo from Better Things (Sam Fox definitely does word of mouth! ).