From Overwhelm to Empowerment: Embracing the Torrent of Thoughts

Ever since I can remember, my mind has been a bustling hub of ideas, solutions, stories, and emotions. From my earliest memories, I felt as if I were swimming against a ceaseless current of thoughts. There were times, especially during my teenage years, when this overwhelming tide would cause me to freeze, unable to process or communicate effectively.

First I didn't think about it, because it was a reality born with. To me it was "normal". At that time I thought all people had this trait, and I was simply not equipped to handle all this overwhelming speedtrains with thoughts.

However, this perceived weakness, combined with other "weaknesses" eventually turned into one of my greatest strengths. Maybe you will find lessons you can relate to. Every person is unique and I fully believe that you have to accept all of you (including your "weaknesses" and "strangeness")...

1. Finding Structure Amidst Chaos

The first step was to learn ways to deal with my self and tame this torrent. Unconsciously I tried to find ways of structuring and organizing all these thoughts. Somehow I discovered ways to channel these thoughts into productive outlets. This was not always successful

2. Becoming a Soundboard

At one moment my ability to tune into multiple ideas simultaneously made me an effective listener. When others sought advice or simply needed someone to listen, I was able to focus on them, empathetically absorbing their narratives. I unearthed the power of appreciative inquiry and made it a tool in my arsenal.

3. Coaching and Organizing

As my journey progressed and I stepped into a coaching role, another skill emerged: guiding others to organize their thoughts. My history of managing my chaotic mind enabled me to help others find clarity.

4. Bringing Ideas to Life

The art of graphical recording became my next ally. Visualizing ideas, using a blend of comic art and text boxes, allowed others to see their thoughts come alive. It was as if their brainwaves were directly transposed onto a canvas.

5. Harnessing the Power of Obeya

Recently, I've delved into the world of obeya and multi-level thinking. By assigning each idea to a movable note, I can manipulate, structure, and categorize thoughts, akin to a conductor orchestrating a symphony.

The chaos of ideas is still there

Yet, the overwhelming rush of ideas hasn't ceased.

Some ideas, if not penned down instantly, vanish into the ether, never to return. While I sometimes manage to capture the essence of these thoughts in titles, the finer details often elude me.

Interestingly, I'd always assumed everyone experienced this deluge of thoughts, a constant companion from dawn to dusk. It was only later in life that I realized my unique cognitive landscape.

What was once a hindrance, an "abnormality" that distanced me from a so-called normal life, metamorphosed over the years into an invaluable asset. By embracing and understanding my cognitive patterns, I became adept at structuring thought processes for others. My ability to immerse myself wholly into another's narrative, to the point where I resonate with their emotions and thoughts, sets me apart.

Now, as I pen this, I realize the combined power of my experiences and skills. What were once barriers have transformed me into a unique resource, especially for leaders whose philosophies, values, and behaviors I deeply respect.

In life, we often run from what we don't understand, deeming it a weakness. But by embracing and understanding these peculiarities, we unlock strengths we never knew we had.

Acceptance of oneself is a path to peace and the gateway to empowerment.