SLIDING DOOR MOMENTS 10 YEARS OF KEY FOR CHANGE
Monday, 23rd May 2022 marks 10 years of Key for Change. It’s hard to believe that an idea sparked when I faced redundancy, has blossomed into a thriving private practice that’s touched the lives of many.
There are no two ways about it, training as a psychotherapist saved my life and Key for Change has given my life purpose and meaning. I dread to think where I’d be if I hadn’t taken a chance on myself. Just like the film Sliding Doors, I often wonder how my life would be if I’d said no to the whispers of my dreams.
I imagine I’d be depressed and stuck in a lacklustre life in a lacklustre flat on the 13th floor of the Stonebridge estate. With urine scented lifts, police call-outs and me forever complaining to the council about repairs. My flat would be overcrowded and I’d be waiting years to be re-housed. I’d also be in and out of toxic relationships acquiring different baby fathers, hoping love would save the day only to be hurt once again. I’d probably have more kids and be an overwhelmed mother serving microwavable meals and oven food. I’d rob Peter to pay Paul and live a life juggling credit. Over time, I’d become bitter and resentment would slowly eat me up. I’d binge eat too in an attempt to stuff down uncomfortable emotions, my self-esteem would be low and I’d value men that showed me a modicum of love.
On the face of it, I’d look ok. I may even have a fancy car on credit. But behind the smiles and my latest plus size outfit, I’d be miserable. Trapped in a cycle of poverty and low paid work. Hating the job and desperately needing it at the same time. Fear would grip me and I’d have limited solutions when problems came along. Desperation would kick in and money would be too tight to mention. Keeping the debt collectors from the door would be my intention. Life would be tough and playing the lottery would be my only hope of a better day.
Secretly, I’d have great ambitions sparked by an inspirational film or watching Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday. But I’d have little self-belief or access to mentors and lack the confidence to break toxic cycles. Fundamentally, I wouldn’t believe in myself so I’d overly invest in others only to be disappointed. Caring would feel like a curse and I’d be patiently waiting for a miracle to radically change my life.
Over time, my hope would dwindle and I wouldn’t understand that the only one that can save me is staring back at me in the mirror.
Today, I am so grateful. I took a chance on myself. Do you need to take a chance on yourself?
So all the people who’ve invested in themselves and entrusted me as your companion on the journey of change. I thank you. Words really can’t convey my gratitude. Without you all, I would have been just a dreamer. I am employed by the people and I am here for the people. It’s an honour to serve you through the ups n downs of life. To watch you heal and change is an absolute privilege. There is no greater honour than to be entrusted with your vulnerability. I have made it my life’s work to continuously understanding the human condition and facilitate human healing in the best way I possibly can.
My life is filled with purpose and meaning. I thank you all for facilitating my dream. Where would I be without you all? You’ve assisted me as much as I’ve helped you. Plus, most of all, I am fortunate to witness your personal miracles every single day.
My life is filled with purpose and meaning. I thank you all for facilitating my dream. Where would I be without you all? You've assisted me as much as I've helped you. Plus, most of all, I am fortunate to witness your personal miracles every single day.
Keeley Taverner Tweet
Thank you.
As ever, do take care of yourself, because if you don’t, who will?