Embracing Our Inner Animals: A Lighter Approach to Self-Discovery

Have you ever wondered why I use animals to represent different parts of our personalities in my work? ?? Today, I want to share the magic behind this approach!

Animals have unique, relatable characteristics that make understanding complex human behaviours more accessible and less intimidating. ?? Take the 'Cockatoo', for instance, my playful twist on the 'Critical Parent' from transactional analysis. This bossy, know-it-all bird reflects that part of us that can be judgmental and overly responsible.

Why animals, you ask? ??

1. Lightness and Humour: Using animals allows us to look at ourselves and our traits with a sense of humour. It's easier to laugh about a 'Cockatoo's bossiness' than to confront a 'critical parent' head-on.
2. Avoiding Psychological Jargon: It keeps us from heavy psychological terms that sometimes feel pathologising or overwhelming.
3. Universal Relatability: Animals and their traits are universally recognised and relatable, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers.
4. Creative Engagement: It opens a more creative and engaging way to explore our personalities and behaviours.
5. Empathy and Understanding: By externalising traits, we can develop a more empathetic understanding of ourselves and others.

So, next time you find yourself being a bit of a 'Cockatoo', remember, it's a part of being human. We all have our animal traits and recognising them can be the first step in our journey of growth and self-improvement. ??

Have you ever identified with an animal trait? Share your thoughts or your 'inner animal' in the comments below!

Let's explore this fun and insightful journey together.

Michelle