I’m sure it’s not surprising to anyone that I enjoy discussing the nuances of the Solution Focused approach. I often apply it in my life, either through journaling or gentle self-reflection.

One instance was around my living situation. I’d been in the same drafty flat for eight years. The windows and rooms were faulty and cavernous, and the radiators were antiquated. Between the cold and my sensitive immune system (I’m also an aspiring opera singer, so vocal health is paramount), I did everything imaginable for years – visualisations, Solution Focused questions, trancework – to make my body more compatible in that space. But the persistent mould and dripping ceilings during rain became too much.

It was time for a change. Luckily my sister and I agreed to find a new flat together. The Edinburgh rental market is daunting (let’s admit, we also have a housing crisis, not only in England), but miraculously, we found and secured a place in just over a week.

I’ve been in my new home for three weeks now. It’s been a whirlwind of boxes and jobs amidst the move, even squeezing in my hypnotherapy sessions at the small table in my crowded bedroom.

It turns out it wasn’t my body that was too sensitive, as I’ve had no issues in the new flat. Keeping it warm is far easier; my health has excelled (knock on wood).

Sometimes, we can talk and visualise all we want, but a bigger step is required to remove ourselves from a detrimental situation. I’m grateful I could take that step; my heart goes out to those who can’t escape cold, damp housing they can’t afford to heat.

This experience taught me two things: we all have limits, even with the Solution Focused approach. That’s okay – it doesn’t mean we can’t profoundly help our clients, just that some problems require more drastic solutions.

It also reaffirmed my flexible pricing. While some may see it as improper, making my services accessible to all aligns with Solution Focused values of radical inclusion. We can change so much with this empowering approach, and I want to reach as many people as possible.

I’m happy and comfortable sharing specific personal stories from time to tim; I hope you find this interesting. However, I can’t finish a post without a Solution Focused question. So here’s one for today:

When was the last time you had to admit your limits and make a tough decision for your well-being? What inner resources and strengths helped you through that difficult transition?

As always, I welcome any comments or questions.