"You don't have to think about doing the right thing. If you're for the right thing, then you do it without thinking."
~ Maya Angelou

April 25, 2014

The Story...

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?


I am inspired by the story, one that has shown me the true depth of resilience, overcoming and healing.  It is the reality of these outcomes that ignites my inspiration and moves me forward as I strive to reach others!  My words today have arrived from a recent conversation with one of my closest confidants, and once again I am invested with the opportunity to share, The Story...

In the field of helping others our arrival, commitment to, and the direction that we may find our careers moving is in fact influenced by many various sources.  Although, one of the most important influences often gets overlooked, The Story...  We all have one, and as different as they might be, they often share similarities that most don't take the time to acknowledge.  They include challenge, hope, resistance, determination, fear and resilience to name but some.  So, why don't we hear more about these stories?  

As helping professionals we are often trained/educated to not self-disclose, or to do so when it is feasible.  The problem here is that most can't figure out the middle ground, and so they either cross the boundary and share too much, or stay far far away from it and don't share anything at all.  Another reason is the "vulnerability" that one is holding on to, feeling as though if they share, it will come across as a weakness or that it may negatively impact their credibility or title.  I ask you to think critically here, as The Story can also be used in one's action and behavior, it does not always have to be spoken.  I believe the reality of one sharing The Story is so connected to their willingness to be accepting of that story...

When you are comfortable with your own truth, and there is enough self-awareness (and evolution) in place, you will have the necessary skills and tools to effectively use The Story...  I encourage you to give this some thought, and while you may find yourself chasing that title, CV, or another line on the resume...  Please ask yourself, how was it possible to get where I am at today?  My hope is that your own story will find you empowered as it has tremendous use, value and opportunity, Can You Hear Me?  Until the next time my words meet your availability, may this find you breathing well...




About Author

Daniel Jacob, MSW Email
Founder of Can You Hear Me?  External Field Instructor and Adjunct Lecturer at University of Southern California School of Social Work VAC.  Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work).  He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process as he continues to work towards progress!  More about the man behind the mission⇢

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