At the recent Joyful Masterclass for Connection Professionals hosted by Covve and the Connection Crew, a spotlight shined on Sondra Norris, a seasoned culture consultant, coach, and researcher. With over three decades of experience working with industry giants like Electronic Arts, Microsoft, and Estée Lauder, Sondra has dedicated her career to transforming workplace dynamics through trust and empathy.
She believes that authentic leadership begins with self-awareness, and her work aims to foster environments where individuals can connect meaningfully and perform at their best.
During the workshop, Sondra led participants through an engaging exercise titled Breaking and Reconstructing Your Belief System. This activity encouraged attendees to dive deep into their own limiting beliefs—the internal narratives that often hold them back from personal and professional growth. With her calm demeanor and insightful prompts, Sondra guided the group on a journey of reflection and transformation.
Breaking the Status Quo
The activity began with Sondra creating a serene and reflective environment. She emphasized the importance of slowing down and allowing oneself to think beyond surface-level limitations. “We all carry beliefs that influence our decisions, relationships, and successes,” she shared. “But how often do we pause to question them?”
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the exercise that you can try at home:
- Set the Stage for Reflection
Start by finding a quiet space where you can sit comfortably. Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Imagine yourself in a place that brings you peace—a beach at sunset, a quiet forest, or even your favorite room at home. Feel the calmness wash over you. - Ask the Key Question
Once you’re settled, reflect on this question:
“Which belief am I choosing to hold onto that is preventing me from getting the result I want?”
Take your time to let the question resonate. What comes to mind? Write down the first thoughts or feelings that surface. - Pair and Share
If you’re doing this exercise with someone else, take turns sharing your reflections. The key is to listen without judgment. Sondra stressed the importance of “holding space”—being present and supportive without offering solutions or advice. This allows the speaker to fully explore their belief without fear of being corrected or misunderstood. - Express Gratitude
After each person has shared, acknowledge the courage it took to open up. Offer a simple “Thank you” for their vulnerability and honesty. Even if you’re doing this solo, take a moment to thank yourself for the introspection. - Reframe or Release
Now, consider how you can reframe this belief. Could you see it from a different perspective? What would happen if you chose to let it go entirely? Imagine how that shift could change your approach to the goals or relationships it’s been affecting.
Building Bridges, Not Walls
Sondra’s session at the Joyful Masterclass for Connection Professionals was a powerful reminder that true connection, whether in the workplace or in personal life, starts with understanding the stories we tell ourselves. By breaking down these stories and reconstructing them with intention, we create room for growth, empathy, and genuine relationships.
“Too often, we look outward for change,” Sondra noted, “when the real transformation starts inside.”
If you’d like to try this activity at home, grab a journal, find a quiet spot, and take a deep dive into the beliefs that shape your world. Who knows what might emerge when you let go of what’s holding you back?
With leaders like Sondra guiding these reflective exercises, our Masterclasses here at Covve continue to leave a lasting impact—one belief at a time.
Written on 18 Oct 2024.
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