My first post on Think Beyond Coaching. It's a big moment. Must think of something insightful and witty to write for my zero subscribers. No pressure, whatsoever.
Note to self: Don’t. F*ck. It. Up.
The best place to start is by introducing myself, right? But the very thought of it gives me the ick. It's hard to write insightful and witty things. It's impossible to write witty and insightful things about myself.
The truth is, I don't like talking about myself. I don't think I've got much to say, which might be problematic for a burgeoning content creator.
If I dig a layer deeper, I know that I'm just fighting against my own discomfort, and a lifetime of learned behaviours.
I’m a Master Masker
I've done it so well, that I honestly had no idea that I was doing it. Inception level masking.
Giphy
Growing up, I learned the art of seamlessly deflecting question, because it was uncomfortable being in the centre of someone's attention. I built a career in asking questions, as it was the very key to making friends and influencing people (or so the book told me). I am the extraverted introvert, with an easy smile, and a knack for connecting. But I give away very little of myself.
And that's the truest thing I can tell you about myself. I'm still learning who I am, and what I want. It's not that easy to talk about yourself, when it's an actual work in progress.
But I'm trying.
So here's a few more snippets about me:
I don't do favourites.
Favourite book? Movie? Meal?
"Well, it depends."
I fear the classic UX adage is burned into my brain.
But it truly depends on what's happening, how I'm feeling, how tired/hungry/time-poor I am. Much like my social skills, my list of favourites is able to adapt to what's happening in the moment. It makes gift buying a nightmare for my husband though.
I love a good cheeseboard.
Anything goes, you know I don't have favourites.
Here’s something I made earlier…
If you've got this far, you now know me better than most people. But here's the things that I want you to take away:
Wearing a mask is a survival instinct, and we all do it to some extent. It only becomes a problem when you lose sight of who you truly are.
I'm a coach, and I'm still figuring out my own path. No one has it all figured out. I hope you might join me as I wander down this road.
If you do one thing this week - start. Take one tiny step towards something new, even if it feels uncomfortable. Just start.
Aisling x
PS: I write a newsletter now. Subscribe if you'd like to see someone who doesn't like to say things, say things.