The Story You’re Telling vs. The Truth You’re Avoiding
21 November 2025
We are all narrators.
We explain, justify, smooth over.
We build stories that help us make sense of what’s happening … internally, and all around us.
But sometimes, that story is a shield.
A clever disguise.
A polished, well-rehearsed version of events that keeps us from saying the one thing that actually matters.
“I’m just too busy right now.”
(Sometimes means: I’m afraid I’ll fail if I slow down.)
“They just don’t listen to me.”
(Maybe means: I haven’t used my full voice yet.)
“This is just how it is.”
(Can mean: I’ve stopped believing I can change it.)
The most powerful shift isn’t more motivation - it’s more honesty.
Try this:
“Is this the truth? Or the version of the truth I can live with for now?”
And this:
“If I were brave enough to name what’s really going on, what would I say?”
Not to anyone else. Just to yourself.
That’s the moment things begin to move, because you stop hiding from it.
When you can see clearly …
You can lead yourself forward.
Remember, the journey to extraordinary is walked with a thousand small steps, you’re doing great.
Barry Marshall-Graham
Executive coach and leadership advisor
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