The O.A.S.I.S.

After nearly 30 years of talking to people in the intimate zone of the counseling relationship, I have noticed a unique trending of traits that is reflected in the vast majority of my clients.

It’s really interesting to me that there is such consistency in the “seeker” that ends up on the couch of a shrink’s office. I am continuously in awe of these folks that search me out, track me down for an appointment and then courageously come in to share their not-so-lovely parts. I admire the initiative, the wisdom of knowing when they need to ask for some help, and the commitment to finding the best life possible by consulting with a professional to get a better plan. This type of person shares the 5 traits that comprise my profile.

Review this profile and see if you recognize yourself as one of “us.” I believe this profile represents a slim percentage of the population and represents the leaders in our world on every front. They are the “movers and shakers” of whatever area of life they take on and are “difference-makers.” I call these folks the O.A.S.I.S. people. An Oasis is a place of refuge and refreshment in a dessert or dry place and I see my folks often as the place people are drawn to for renewal and hope. See if you are one of us?

O: O is for OBSERVANT; An observer of life, culture, details often times not noticed by others. Observant of his/her inside world, as well: thoughts, feelings, nudges.

A: A is for ANALYTICAL; Analyzes all of these observations to understand them, to know why and what and how. A person who is driven to get to the bottom of things and to see how people tick and why things are the way they are. This person often cannot shut down his/her mind, experiencing constant chatter and ideas of how things can be better and how to fix them and how to get “safe” in the world, etc., etc., etc.

S: S is for SENSITIVE; Sensitive to everything thought about in the analysis — to what others are feeling, to feelings of hurt/inadequacy/fear/guilt…deeply- feeling individuals — sometimes so much so that it is overwhelming and draining.

I: I is for INTUITIVE; Intuitive to what has been felt — knowing what it “means” — interpreting/discerning insights and direction from the deep feelings that often lead to significant breakthroughs in understanding and resolution. This intuition drives toward Solving and Shifting.

S: S is for Solvers/Shifters; Solving problems that Shift things in the world — that bring change from small to huge dimensions. Not being able to stop until something is resolved and is oftentimes a part of the process or campaign to bring the change necessary to do so.

What do you think? Do you recognize yourself in this profile?