The next time you have an experience that leaves you feeling disempowered or victimised, look for version 2.
In episode 120 of Legal Imposters I explain why and I show you how.
There's always a version of your experience that leaves you feeling powerless and frustrated (version 1).
And for every version 1, there's always a version 2 - one that will take you out of victimhood and leave you feeling empowered and motivated to keep progressing to your goal.
I've coached on this ALOT inside Be The First this week. One client experience left them feeling traumatised and undervalued; another client was left feeling invisible and disrespected.
In both cases I challenged their stories of what happened and helped them to see how the version of events that left them hurt and disillusioned (version 1) was just that: one version, one interpretation. I showed them that there was a second, equally valid version (version 2) of that same event that would leave them feeling motivated and empowered. And then I invited them to choose -
How do you want to feel?
And if you felt like that, what would you do?
And if you were to do that, what outcome could you expect?
Exploring version 2 isn't about making you wrong or distorting the facts. In fact, it's often about revisiting the facts - only this time, stripping away the emotion that so easily distorts them and bends them into our worst fears.
Fears that leave us diminished, defensive and small.
Fears we have the power to choose not to feel at all.
To learn more about the transformative power of version 2 look no further than the philosophy, mindset and call to action I teach that is be the first. "I'm the only one" is version 1.
"I'm the first" is version 2.
Same circumstances. 2 versions - each leading to completely different sets of feelings, actions and outcomes.
This one packs a punch. Be sure to tune in.
P.S. Finding version 2 of your experience of being a black lawyer is a skill I teach you inside Be The First and the earlier in your career you start learning, and the longer you continue to reinforce it, the better. On 1st May 2026 I'm opening the doors to the Be The First Membership - a monthly pay as you go membership programme giving you online access to a library of resources and coaching support to connect, support and empower you to thrive as a black lawyer. Save the date. Watch this space.