In the journey of self-discovery and growth, a fascinating aspect often emerges—our behaviours, thoughts, and feelings can be influenced by scripts we’ve unconsciously inherited. These “inherited scripts” are patterns of behaviour and belief shaped by our upbringing, culture, and past experiences. Let’s explore how identifying these scripts can lead to a profound transformation in coaching and personal development.
The Influence of Inherited Scripts
When clients present challenges in coaching sessions, these problems often stem from underlying behaviours or thought patterns rooted in their past. These inherited scripts might not directly relate to their current circumstances but are deeply ingrained, subtly guiding their reactions, decisions, and emotions.
For instance, a client may struggle with confidence from a critical parent or a cultural norm emphasising humility. Without awareness, they might attribute this lack of confidence solely to their present environment, missing the historical layers influencing their behaviour.
The Role of Awareness in Change
As a coach or individual working towards growth, the key question is: Is this behaviour truly my own, or is it an automated reaction from my past?
When clients recognise these scripts, they gain a powerful insight—they are not entirely bound by their past. Identifying which thoughts and behaviours are inherited versus consciously chosen opens the door to change.
Encourage clients to:
List their scripts and beliefs: Writing down recurring thoughts or behaviours can help uncover patterns.
Reflect on their origins: Ask questions like, “Does this remind you of your mother or father? Is this how you were taught to act in certain situations?”
Choose consciously: Once clients identify an inherited script, they can decide whether it aligns with who they want to be.
Breaking Free from Conditioned Responses
Understanding inherited scripts doesn’t mean invalidating one’s past; it’s about creating space for intentional living. When clients realise that certain behaviours are not their own, they feel empowered to change without the weight of “fighting against” decades of conditioning.
This reframing makes change feel achievable and liberating. Instead of seeing transformation as a battle against their past, clients view it as adopting a new, self-directed script that reflects their authentic values and aspirations.
Coaching with an Inherited Script Lens
As a coach, adopting the perspective of inherited scripts can deepen your conversations and help clients uncover transformative insights. Consider the following:
Examine the presenting problem: Ask whether inherited behaviours or beliefs might influence the issue.
Foster self-awareness: Guide clients to identify and understand their scripts.
Encourage conscious choice: Help clients decide which scripts to keep and which to rewrite for a more fulfilling life.
A Path to Empowerment
By exploring inherited scripts, clients can transition from automatic, unconscious reactions to intentional, empowered living. This shift not only reduces presenting problems but also fosters greater alignment between their actions and their desired life path.
So next time a client shares a challenge, ask: How much of this is inherited? You might be surprised by the powerful, transformative conversations that follow.
This approach reminds us that we are not just products of our past but also authors of our future. By recognising and rewriting the scripts that no longer serve us, we take a crucial step toward becoming the best version of ourselves.
