Lessons Learned

I love what I get to do in my role as a psychologist. I feel so blessed to be in the unique enriching position which allows me to offer support to so many.

One thing I love most about my role is that I get the privilege of receiving,as well. In my years of counselling I have gained some pretty valuable lessons in my work with clients.

Here’s some of the most valuable lessons and truths about life I have gained in working with both young and old:

1. Our deepest pain can reflect who we are at our core. In other words, when I feel really sad or hurt this actually can reflect back to me what or who I hold close to my heart—I get to see and feel my value system engaged and trying to teach me what is really important to me.

2. Our fears are bigger in our minds. Facing them is quite an experience of realizing ‘that’ wasn’t so bad! Whatever my ‘that’ has been over the years: a difficult conversation, decision, event, confession, or taking action towards a long standing dream—when we take that first step towards the ‘fear,’ we are often confronted with the relief of reality.

3. Change is possible. Whether it seems impossible or just really difficult with a long road ahead —there’s hope in knowing what you’re after is more than often achievable. I’ve personally witnessed amazing life altering changes in my clients’ lives because of their commitment to do the work necessary to achieve it.

4. It’s hard to be honest but boy is it freeing! Coming to terms with something that’s hard to see or admit can be so difficult to do. We all share in the struggle of facing our own flaws but when we do—the freedom of getting real is life changing, and truly can impact one’s personal relationships in such profound ways.

5. Letting go is a gift you can give to yourself. People will hurt and disappoint us, it’s a fact of life. It hurts deeply when it comes from those dearest to our hearts. I’ve been reminded that forgiveness does involve a step of letting it go; releasing the other and yourself from the weight of anger, destruction of bitterness, and pain of disconnection.

I am truly honoured to be in a position that allows me to listen to understand. I write this blog as a thank you to my clients for being some of my greatest teachers in this wonderful journey of life.

Author: Sara Alia, R. Psych (Prov)