Building Relationships With Ourselves
When we build human connections, whether it's friends, dates or partners, we often have an interest in getting to know them. We want to spend time with them, ask questions and learn about their story. When we feel a liking towards them, we can have a desire to evolve the connection and grow closer. But, how often do we do that with ourselves? Allocating intentional solitude time to explore our inner world and enhance the relationship with ourselves.
A couple of weeks ago, I started turning my horror story - The Grinning Stitcher - into an audio story. It's the first time I've done voice acting, and a while since story narration. At first, I found it awkward and wasn't sure where to begin. I used to hate performing. However, I improvised and gave it a go, and it's progressing swimmingly for my first time. Acting as different characters brings me creative joy and fulfilment, and is a form of unmasking.
It's clear to me now that writing and podcasting are not only methods of storytelling, but a means of introspection for growth. It is through these creative mediums that unconscious thoughts and connections rise to the surface, which allows for the discovery of unforeseen parts of me.
I'm mastering the art of unmasking when alone, which eases the difficulty in unmasking around others. It all starts with ourselves.
Here's an analogy. Our lives are a giant garden, but we only have a limited amount of water everyday. In this garden are unwanted elements such as weeds and plant-destroying pests. If we continue watering weeds and undesired plant matter, and take no action to remove pests, our garden will be in shambles. The plants and trees that we want to grow, will not if resources are not being directed towards it. That's the same with real-life.
Change happens at the root. If we want something to discontinue, we need to uproot it and prevent it from continuing to be nurtured. Uproot the undesired and plant a new desire in our lives.
At this point in my life, intentional solitude is non-negotiable. It is as important for my functioning as exercise and movement. It is a core foundation supporting my life's journey. Where does it lie in your life?