As humans we all have basic needs that we try to meet in our everyday lives. Whether consciously or unconsciously we will try to fulfill the needs which are most important to us. However, our quality of life can be affected by how we choose to do that. We can try to fulfill our needs either in a negative and harmful way, or in a positive and empowering way. If the way we try to meet those needs is not in line with our values then we will experience conflict and discontent. When we are able to align our needs with our highest values then we will feel more complete and fulfilled.
To achieve this we have to work through the barriers and underlying beliefs that hold us back. The process can be facilitated and accelerated when we identify and connect with the source of our inner strength. Everyone has that inner strength and the way in which we connect to it is unique to each of us. When we discover our personal way of connecting with it we have access to a continuous source of power. Regularly drawing on this power source, and at the same time finding how we can harmonize our behavior with our values and our needs, leads to sustained and long-term growth. Through the process we can start to embody our best self even from the beginning.
In the graphical representation of this coaching model, the tree represents the sustained growth where you are already your best self but are able to grow even more. The rainbow spiral represents the alignment of our human needs and our highest values. When the rainbow colours harmonize they produce the white light which is your best self at the top of the tree. Your inner strength is like the power of the Earth below the tree which is a continuous source of nourishment throughout your life.
The inspiration for my Tree of Strength coaching model has two origins: The human needs psychology of the Strategic Intervention approach developed by Tony Robbins and Chloe Madanes; and my experiences from living in a monastery for many years where I learned about ways of connecting with your source of inner strength.