A Coaching Power Tool By Mila Ivanova
Transformational Coach, BULGARIA
This Belonging vs. Fitting In power tool illustrates how, frequently in life, our need for acceptance leads us to act in ways that are expected of us by our friends, family, acquaintances, and society at large. It costs money to conform to the norms of others in an attempt to fit in; it pulls us away from our principles and ourselves. The irony is that it keeps us from having the connections with others that we are wired to have. On the other side, belonging is freeing and powerful. Belonging entails having the bravery and vulnerability to reveal oneself to the outside world and being aware of what you want, who you are, and how you feel. Finally, when we can belong, we feel a sense of common humanity and a fulfilling and joyful existence.