My Favorite Question for Difficult Times

Is it just me, or are things feeling like a bit too much right now?

Somehow the transition back to school + shifting routines in my house + world events + the disappointment that we are entering yet another season of more of the same is creating moments when I feel like a deflating balloon drifting in the wind.

In moments like this, there’s a question I keep returning to. It’s a  simple question that often yields powerful responses - which is also why it’s one of my favorite questions to use with clients in my coaching practice.

What do I know to be true?

This is not a fly-by question. 

This is the kind of question you ask yourself once you’ve stopped and taken a few deep breaths. Once you’ve located your center and the place you feel most grounded in your body. From that place, ask yourself, “What do I know to be true?”

What do I know to be true?

The world feels chaotic, but in this moment I am safe.

What do I know to be true?

I’ve been through difficult times before, and I can weather this one too.

What do I know to be true?

Every feeling is temporary. I won’t always feel this way.

What do I know to be true?

I have people to support me. I don’t have to do this alone.

What truth do you need to be reminded of today? 

Pause with me for a moment. Take a few deep breaths - the deepest ones you’ve taken all day. Notice the chair or the ground beneath you. Feel the earth holding and supporting you. 

Close your eyes or lower your gaze. Bring to mind something that feels difficult right now, a decision you’re trying to make, or a question you’re wrestling with.

Now find the place in your body where you feel most centered - maybe that’s in your belly, or the space right over your heart. 

Put your hand there and feel into that place. Rest there a moment and breathe. Now from that place, ask yourself, “What do I know to be true about this?”

Listen quietly for any response. You may get an answer in words, or perhaps your answer will be an image or a feeling. Stay open and be willing to let the answers surprise you.

You may find that the truth that emerges is exactly what you need to hear most right now. Let that truth carry you through these challenging times. 

If you’d like more support grounding into your truth and finding a place of peace and calm, learn more about coaching here.