Dr.Mindful: Good afternoon. How have you been since our last session?

Coen: I've had some ups and downs, you know? Work's been stressful, and I've been feeling overwhelmed.

Dr.Mindful: It sounds like work is impacting your well-being. What's been on your mind the most?

Coen: I just feel this constant pressure to meet expectations, and it's like I'm losing touch with who I am. I'm not sure what I want anymore.

Dr.Mindful: It sounds like you're struggling with finding your authentic self amidst external pressures. Let's explore that. What aspects of your life resonate most with your true self?

Coen: Honestly, I used to be more creative, but lately, it's all about meeting deadlines and targets. I miss expressing myself through art and writing.

Dr.Mindful: It sounds like reconnecting with your creative side could bring a sense of authenticity. How can you start incorporating those aspects back into your life?

Coen: I guess I could set aside time for my creative pursuits, even if it's just a little each day. But it's hard to justify that when work demands so much.

Dr.Mindful: It's important to prioritize self-expression for your well-being. Let's explore ways to balance your professional responsibilities and personal needs. How might you communicate your need for creative time with your workplace?

Coen: Maybe I can talk to my supervisor about my workload and suggest a more balanced approach. I never considered advocating for myself in that way.

Dr.Mindful: Taking steps to communicate your needs is a significant part of self-care. Remember, you are deserving of a life that aligns with your values. How does the idea of expressing your needs at work feel for you?

Coen: It's a bit scary, but it also feels empowering. I need to start putting myself first.

Dr.Mindful: Recognizing and addressing your needs is a courageous journey. As you continue this exploration, pay attention to how it impacts your overall well-being. We can continue discussing your progress in our next session

The next session....

Dr.Mindful: Welcome back. How have things been since our last session?

Coen: I took your advice and talked to my supervisor about my workload. It was nerve-wracking, but surprisingly, they were understanding. They even suggested some changes to make it more manageable.

Dr.Mindful: That's a significant step! How did it feel to advocate for yourself and have that conversation?

Coen: It was empowering, like I had a say in shaping my work environment. I've also started incorporating some creative time into my routine, and it feels good to reconnect with that part of myself.

Dr.Mindful: It's wonderful to hear that you're taking positive steps. How has integrating creativity impacted your overall well-being?

Coen: It's like a breath of fresh air. Even on challenging days, having that creative outlet gives me a sense of balance and perspective. I didn't realize how much I needed it. I feel like I'm at a beach relaxing.