Against the Grainn aims to spark thought, challenge thinking, and encourages each reader to be the best version of themselves possible. Some discussions may be mildly uncomfortable; some may be enlightening. We’ll approach each with an open mind and willingness to explore what we may not always understand, for it’s in being uncomfortable that we’ll find growth.
What belongs to us?
Have you ever taken a moment to wonder where your beliefs about yourself come from? Do you identify as kind? Stern? Adventurous? Stable? Fun? Do you personify the role of a Caretaker? Provider? Or do none of these roles cross your mind?
Oftentimes our roles in life were bestowed upon us unwillingly when we were younger. Were you the oldest child? You might have been held more responsible than your siblings. Youngest child? Maybe you weren’t taken as seriously as your siblings. Middle child? Were you the peacekeeper?
As we become adults many times we still carry this identity, sometimes it is what makes us strong, and sometimes it doesn’t serve us anymore. A great exercise is to take a
piece of paper and list those attributes we identify ourselves by. Once you have the list, pick a role that you play in life (mother, sister, employee, boss, husband, etc.). For each
role you play, decide which attributes work well for that role and which don’t. Are you embodying the “Stern” attribute when showing up as a wife? Are you “kind” when showing up as a brother? Are you fun when interacting with your children? And so on and so forth…
Bringing more awareness to how we interact with those around us can make us better in each role that we play in our lives. This exercise can deepen some relationships and put others in their rightful place. Being intentional in how we interact with others can help ensure each relationship is getting the best part of you. Have compassion and be kind to one another…
