The Company We Keep
Some relationships lift us.
Some gently hold us in place.
And some quietly drain the energy we’re already running low on.
In coaching conversations, we often talk about time, pressure, and workload.
But underneath all of that, there’s something else at play - the relationships we’re managing.
The emotional energy we’re spending (often silently).
The versions of ourselves we feel we need to be.
These things can’t be neatly written into a diary or daily plan.
But they shape how we feel — every single day.
Not always tension — sometimes just… effort
Some relationships don’t feel obviously difficult — but they slowly take more than they give.
Sometimes, they’re just quiet spaces where you can’t fully exhale.
Where you’re managing someone else’s emotions.
Filling gaps. Keeping the peace.
Or holding back parts of yourself that don’t feel welcome.
It’s the roles we take on without noticing:
The steady one. The fixer. The one who smooths things over.
The version of ourselves we show up as — even when it doesn’t quite fit anymore.
Noticing what lifts you — and what doesn’t
Some people see us as we are.
They bring ease, not effort.
You can drop the mask. Let your shoulders lower. Exhale. Be fully human.
Others only see a version of us. Or want us to stay as we were.
And sometimes, we shrink, just a little, without even realising it.
These aren’t always “bad” relationships.
But something about them might be asking for change.
Gently exploring what you need
This kind of reflection often shows up in coaching— as we explore identity, values, and what helps you feel most like yourself.
We might ask:
Who gives you energy?
Who do you feel safe and honest with?
Where are you over-functioning - and at what cost?
What kind of support would feel good, rather than just familiar?
And perhaps most importantly:
What relationships are asking more of you than you want to give right now?
Moving forward with more ease
Not every relationship has to stay the same.
Things change. People grow. And it’s okay if some dynamics don’t grow with you.
Letting go doesn’t have to mean rejection or failure.
Sometimes it simply means making room for gentler connections.
Ones that give something back.
Ones that let you breathe.
If this resonates…
If you’re noticing a shift in your relationships, professional or personal, and want space to explore what that means for you, I offer a free 30-minute coaching call.
No pressure. No commitment. Just a quiet conversation.
