Rhythms of Being: A Reflection Guide
A gentle invitation to explore how you move through the world — without labels, without judgment. A movement toward accepting who you are at your core, instead of striving to become who you think you should be.
This guide is both a way of being and a reflection of where you are today.
Some rhythms won’t change. Some may shift as you become calm and confident.
Let’s celebrate this diversity — it is necessary.
1. How You Connect Best
Spectrum: One-on-One ←→ Group
Prompt: “Where do I feel most nourished in connection?”
2. How You Recharge
Spectrum: Solo ←→ One-on-One ←→ Group Flow
Prompt: “How do I restore my energy after engagement?”
3. How You Process Information
Spectrum: Fast ←→ Slow
Prompt: “How long does it take me to metabolize thoughts or emotions?”
4. How You Focus
Spectrum: Linear ←→ Indirect
Prompt: “Do I build step by step or leap intuitively?”
5. How You Sense the World
Spectrum: Low ←→ High
Prompt: “How do I relate to sensory input — do I seek, balance, or avoid?”
6. How You’re Motivated to Finish Something
Spectrum: Planning ←→ Urgency
Prompt: “What mobilizes me — structure or spark?”
7. How You Initiate Action
Spectrum: Fact Finder → Follow Thru → Quick Start → Implementor
Prompt: “Do I move gradually or in focused sprints?”
Note: This spectrum is inspired by Kolbe’s conative strengths. You may show up in more than one mode.
8. What You Do When You’re Stressed
Spectrum: Withdraw ←→ Mobilize ←→ Seek Support
Prompt: “What’s my first instinct when I feel overwhelmed?”
9. How You Show Appreciation and Love
Spectrum: Words ←→ Acts ←→ Touch ←→ Time ←→ Gifts
Prompt:“How do I naturally express love or appreciation?”
10. How You Want to Receive Appreciation and Love
Spectrum: Words ←→ Acts ←→ Touch ←→ Time ←→ Gifts
Prompt: “What kind of appreciation feels most meaningful to me?”
Closing Reflection
Am I shaping myself to fit, or allowing myself to be?
Which of these rhythms feels most misunderstood in my life — and what would it mean to honor it?
Do I show up differently at work, with friends, or at home? If so, what is different about these environments that makes that so?
References
Kolbe, Kathy. Conative Connection: Uncovering the Link Between Who You Are and How You Perform. Apple Books: Smashwords.
Chapman, Gary. 1992. The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate. Chicago: Northfield Publishing.
