Remember when your older brother used to sit on you? Unfortunately, I do.
Interestingly, that same brother who used to scare me became the first person that I called when I was diagnosed with cancer. Even though we didn't always get along growing up, my brother, sister and I are now each other's biggest fans.
Even if that isn't the case in your family, a few simple exercises can turn your relationships around.
Siblings are the people who know you the best. They were there from the beginning and they understand where you have come from. They are also as human as you are. All human beings struggle with communication and fear that love will be taken away.
I believe that where there was once love, there will always be love. Even if you're in a tumultuous relationship with your sister or can't stand being around your brother, chances are that a part of you loves these people more than you might want to admit.
I was with a client for an initial session back in November. We were going over the 7 powerful questions that I always ask new clients and talked about her career goals. Somewhere during our conversation her sister came up. I could tell by her body language that there was tension between them. I decided to explore that relationship a little deeper.
I let her complain about her sister for about five minutes. Once she came up for air I asked her if she loved her sister. She said yes. I asked her what it would be like if her relationship with her sister became one of love and friendship. She started to cry. Freedom started opening up its door.
I left her with homework. She was to interview her sister with a questionnaire I had created. I coached her on letting her sister answer openly. I encouraged her to practice listening and resist interrupting to state her point of view.
The great news is, this conversation transformed their relationship. They started hanging out again and her sister even became a client of mine!
A simple questionnaire allowed them to talk like never before. They learned about one another and were able to understand the other's perspective. It became the starting point for a new relationship to emerge.
I am not saying that these interview questions will transform every relationship. However, in my experience, every time that I've coached a client to use this exercise, major shifts have happened.
I usually say that if it makes you nervous to interview that person you probably should. Magic comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.
Does your relationship with your family make you feel badly? Take a look at the interview questionnaire. Let me support you in creating a life that you love by booking your free consultation – don't wait, do it now.
