Episode 3: Deconstructing Stories

Our episode this month is a fascinating conversation with Shona who also has a background in narrative practice. The theme explored in this conversation focuses on our ability to deconstruct our life stories so we can create new meaning. In narrative practice, deconstructing stories is a technique used to analyse and break down dominant narratives that shape our identity and experiences. The goal is to reveal the underlying assumptions, values, and influences that sustain these narratives, enabling individuals to challenge and transform them. How we make sense of our lives and the meaning we attach to events and relationships can, often be filtered through social constructs of the hopes and expectations of other people and groups. What Shona so beautifully illustrates is how she went about mastering the skills of deconstruction to find alternative stories for herself and how she is defining herself as a woman. . Shona reminds us that the process of deconstructing our stories can be painful but that the struggle is necessary if we want our character to change and to experience new adventures. You are going to love Shona’s wisdom about moving through life with open palms and the story she shares about Helen Keller nudging her towards a great adventure is an absolute delight. There is lots of gold in this episode enjoy hearing some of Shona’s wisdoms about deconstructing stories and remember, ‘Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.’ (Helen Keller)