Following the Call of Self By Audrey McMorrow, BCC, LPC


a different perspective. Our DNA, upbringing, culture, relation- ships and even day-to-day interactions form our actions and define our concept of Self, whether consciously or unconsciously. When we begin to awaken to the understanding that we can cooperate deliberately and consciously with our unfolding, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and authenticity.


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Along this journey of awakening, we may begin to ask our- selves some of the following questions:


What makes me feel alive and what is most important to me in my life?


So often we get distracted in our day-to-day lives, or allow the needs of others to always come before our own, without having any conscious awareness of what is most essential to us as indi- viduals. It is important that we begin to ask ourselves what holds meaning and value for us. Once you begin this journey of discov- ery, the answers might surprise you. As an example, many years ago I was in a workshop where we determined what our greatest strength was by the response in our bodies after certain traits were listed. After the list was read twice, my body reacted each time with a twitch when the word “justice” was spoken. At the time, I had no idea what that meant to me, but in the ensuing years, I have come to understand and embrace the idea that justice, in terms of equality for all, is one of my greatest strengths and I am willing to stand for it.


Ask yourself this question: What quality would I be willing


to crawl through glass for not to give up in my life? The answer might be connection, creativity, adventure, and so on, but the an- swers will be as individual as you are. Once you determine what is important, make your decisions based on these qualities. What do you want to embrace in your life?


Do I speak my truth and understand that my voice is equally important? So often we are afraid to speak up for what we believe in,


often giving way to the inner critic that tells us that what we have to say is wrong or unimportant. Finding your voice, and the cour- age of your convictions, is vital to responding to the Call of Self. We all have gifts – allow others to see them, or more importantly, recognize them within yourself.


Audrey McMorrow is a licensed therapist (LPC) who is also a Board-Certified Life Coach with a Masters and CAGS in Holistic Counseling. In addition, she has been trained extensively in Psychosynthesis, a psychological approach that focuses on achieving a synthesis of the various parts of an individual’s person-


ality into a more cohesive self. Audrey has a range of experience in working with individuals and groups on the path of personal growth, meaning and purpose. For more information, visit: www. vasthorizons.com. See ad on page 19.


t some point in our lives, many of us may experience a “Call of Self.” It can come at any time, but most often we encounter it in our later life when we begin to see life from


What do I need to let go of? This is perhaps the most difficult step, but one that is often necessary on your journey. Take inventory of your life and see what is working and not working for you. Is it time to think about a new career path? Are there friends in your life that are pull- ing you in the wrong direction or taking your energy? Are there time-wasting distractions that pull you from what is more im- portant? Do you need to let go of negative thought patterns that have plagued you throughout your life? Begin to take inventory and allow yourself to let go of what no longer serves you in your authentic life.


What is my Purpose? What impact would you like to have in the world?


The Call of Self pulls you to live your life in service of your purpose, meaning, and values. Take notice of what is trying to emerge within you. When you are living your purpose, your work can flow more easily and bring you great energy and joy. If you don’t have the opportunity to be gainfully employed in this way, consider avenues to incorporate your purpose into your everyday life. Listen to your own unique calling and be willing to follow it. How will you respond to the invitations that life is sending you?


Though we seem to be sleeping there is an inner wakefulness that directs the dream and that will eventually startle us back to the truth of who we are. -


Rumi


www.EssentialLivingMaine.com


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