The stories we tell ourselves shape everything—from how we lead, to how we relate to others, to what we believe we’re capable of.

But have you ever paused to ask what those stories are actually made of?

We like to think of them as clear and logical. A summary of what happened, why it happened, or who we are. But they’re usually far messier. More like a recipe made up of:

• A handful of facts

• Some half-remembered details

• A few assumptions

• Emotional truths (how it felt—not always what actually occurred)

• And a stream of automatic, unexamined thoughts

Our brain mixes it all together and delivers a story. Then it repeats it. And the more we hear it, the more we believe it.

This process plays out across all parts of life—careers, relationships, ambitions, confidence. But here’s the issue: we rarely stop to question the ingredients.

We don’t often ask:

• Is this really true?

• Am I responding to evidence—or fear?

• Is this story moving me forward, or holding me back?

When our stories are grounded in reflection and reality, they drive performance, build resilience, and help us grow. But when they’re built on outdated assumptions—especially negative ones—they can quietly drain our confidence and limit our potential.

Stronger leadership, better relationships, and greater impact start with better internal storytelling.

So next time that familiar narrative plays in your head, pause and ask:

Is this story true—or just familiar?

Want to get better at the way you think, lead, and communicate—starting with yourself?
I work with leaders and teams to strengthen emotional intelligence and shift unhelpful patterns that impact performance and trust.  If that sounds useful, email me at [email protected]. Let’s start a conversation.