How to Manage Recurring Patterns in Your Work and Personal Life

Oh hey,

So, I was coaching a client this morning and we were discussing a situation they are going through with their HR Team.

They're dealing with a grievance involving another team member, and everyone else seems to be downplaying the severity of the situation. However, for my client, it felt incredibly big. She often thinks that she is experiencing things differently from others and, as a consequence, does not feel like her voice is being heard. This is actually a pattern she experiences quite regularly in her life.

This made me reflect: how often do we see the same patterns playing out in our working lives that we experience in other areas of our lives?

And, more importantly, how can we better manage these recurring patterns?


Recognising patterns: The first step is awareness. Spotting these patterns can provide insight into how we respond to different situations. Are there recurring themes in your interactions? Do certain scenarios trigger similar emotional responses? Understanding these patterns can help us predict and navigate similar situations more effectively.

Communication is key: Just as my client felt unheard, many of us have experienced moments when our perspectives seem overlooked. Open and honest communication is essential - telling people this is how you're feeling rather than bottling it up and continuing the frustration and resentment. This not only resolves immediate issues but also helps foster long-term trust and collaboration.

Checking perspectives: If a pattern is coming up regularly, it's a brilliant opportunity to get that viewpoint checked. Whether it's from HR, a mentor, or a trusted colleague, having someone to discuss your concerns with can provide a fresh perspective and validate your feelings or help you see things another way. And, maybe tell that person to challenge you - after all, there's nothing better than a re-frame!

Time for change: After identifying these patterns, reflect on how they influence your behaviour and decisions. Are there ways to adapt your approach to achieve better outcomes? Personal growth often involves changing how we react to familiar situations. Consider what has worked in the past and what hasn't, and be open to trying new strategies.


Self-care and resilience: Managing recurring patterns, especially challenging ones, can be mentally and emotionally draining. Prioritise self-care to maintain your resilience. You'll know what works for you when it comes to promoting your energy levels - a resilient mind is better equipped to handle repeated challenges.

Having empathy for others: If you notice similar patterns in your team members, approach the situation with empathy. Understand that their experiences and perceptions are valid, even if they differ from your own. There's nothing better than creating a safe container to ensure that the team feels understood and can significantly enhance their morale and productivity.

In conclusion, the patterns we see in our professional lives often mirror those in our personal lives.

By recognising these patterns, communicating effectively, seeking support, reflecting on our approaches, prioritising self-care, and fostering empathy, we can manage these recurring themes much more effectively. And, actually, they can lead us to growth and brilliance rather than sticking in the ruts they might currently create.

Until next week, friends!

Cate x

Oh hey,

So, I was coaching a client this morning and we were discussing a situation they are going through with their HR Team.

They're dealing with a grievance involving another team member, and everyone else seems to be downplaying the severity of the situation. However, for my client, it felt incredibly big. She often thinks that she is experiencing things differently from others and, as a consequence, does not feel like her voice is being heard. This is actually a pattern she experiences quite regularly in her life.

This made me reflect: how often do we see the same patterns playing out in our working lives that we experience in other areas of our lives?

And, more importantly, how can we better manage these recurring patterns?


Recognising patterns: The first step is awareness. Spotting these patterns can provide insight into how we respond to different situations. Are there recurring themes in your interactions? Do certain scenarios trigger similar emotional responses? Understanding these patterns can help us predict and navigate similar situations more effectively.

Communication is key: Just as my client felt unheard, many of us have experienced moments when our perspectives seem overlooked. Open and honest communication is essential - telling people this is how you're feeling rather than bottling it up and continuing the frustration and resentment. This not only resolves immediate issues but also helps foster long-term trust and collaboration.

Checking perspectives: If a pattern is coming up regularly, it's a brilliant opportunity to get that viewpoint checked. Whether it's from HR, a mentor, or a trusted colleague, having someone to discuss your concerns with can provide a fresh perspective and validate your feelings or help you see things another way. And, maybe tell that person to challenge you - after all, there's nothing better than a re-frame!

Time for change: After identifying these patterns, reflect on how they influence your behaviour and decisions. Are there ways to adapt your approach to achieve better outcomes? Personal growth often involves changing how we react to familiar situations. Consider what has worked in the past and what hasn't, and be open to trying new strategies.


Self-care and resilience: Managing recurring patterns, especially challenging ones, can be mentally and emotionally draining. Prioritise self-care to maintain your resilience. You'll know what works for you when it comes to promoting your energy levels - a resilient mind is better equipped to handle repeated challenges.

Having empathy for others: If you notice similar patterns in your team members, approach the situation with empathy. Understand that their experiences and perceptions are valid, even if they differ from your own. There's nothing better than creating a safe container to ensure that the team feels understood and can significantly enhance their morale and productivity.

In conclusion, the patterns we see in our professional lives often mirror those in our personal lives.

By recognising these patterns, communicating effectively, seeking support, reflecting on our approaches, prioritising self-care, and fostering empathy, we can manage these recurring themes much more effectively. And, actually, they can lead us to growth and brilliance rather than sticking in the ruts they might currently create.

Until next week, friends!

Cate x

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