It's All in the Interpretation

Words are tricky little things. One moment, they’re clear as day. The next, they’ve shapeshifted into something totally different—depending on who’s reading, who’s listening, and where their mind is in the moment.

Take a single comment. “You’re so persistent.”Depending on tone, context, and your own past experience, that could land as a compliment... or a dig. Is it admiration for your drive? Or frustration at your refusal to give up?

Pessimism says: They probably meant that in a negative way.Optimism asks: Is there another way to hear this that’s more generous—or more useful to me right now?It’s not about pretending everything is sunshine and roses—it’s about choosing the interpretation that keeps you growing. It’s the reframe to look at it from a different angle.

This is where the magic (and messiness) of interpretation comes in. Words carry meaning, yes—but we assign the weight. Our brain does a quick scan: Do I feel safe? Triggered? Seen? Challenged? And then boom—meaning made. This is the dance of language: words don’t just have definitions—they have invitations. To assume, to reflect, to react, to wonder.

The challenge is to take the perceived criticism and learn from it. Take the complement for what it is and accept it. And also remember that the most important words are the ones we say to ourselves.

Here in Draft Lab we are all about re-writes and edits. So let’s keep our pencils sharp together!

New Member Benefit Coming in May!

I am getting rid of E-Coaching, because frankly, no one took advantage of it. I am adding:

TheWeekly Draft

What is it? I have talked to some of you about how I set up my week every Sunday evening. During that time I write/reflect on how my previous week progressed — the things that went well, the things I wish I had accomplished — and I plan for me next week. I set my priorities and goals, I reflect on habits, I timeblock my calendar, etc.

So I would like to invite you all in to my planning space. I will open my personal zoom room every Sunday evening at 7pm for whoever wants to join me. We will co-work on setting up our weeks and have an accountability checkin for whoever needs it. Our first one will be on May 4. I will share the link as we get closer!

Journal Prompts:

Think of a comment that stuck with you recently. How did you interpret it in the moment? What’s an alternate (more optimistic or neutral) interpretation?

When someone questions you (your work, your comment, etc.)—what story does your mind automatically tell you?

What’s one moment where you assumed the worst—but it turned out to be a misunderstanding or growth opportunity?

What would change for you if you approached conversations with the assumption that people mean well?

Affirmations:

I am the author of how I receive and respond to words.

I choose to pause before I interpret—and explore the full meaning.

I release the need to assume the worst.

Every word is a draft—I get to shape what it means to me.

E-Coaching Days this month: April 23. Basic Coaching Members feel free to email me any questions, comments, homework, etc and will respond on these days (Premier members have access anytime through email or text).

Office Hours:  No more office hours this month. This is for Basic Coaching Members as well as any Premier Coaching Members who would like to touch base between scheduled coaching appointments.