A simple yet powerful question | What is a pattern?

We love the question as we see that it invites curiosity and observation in one fell swoop. It asks us to look for evidence and data that we can gather objectively. The question itself also encourages us to take a new perspective; an observer's perspective. The question creates a separation between myself and the thing I am considering as much as it helps to depersonalise the situation.

Additionally, by looking for a Pattern, we are looking for a 'whole'. We’re moving our point of view far enough away to appreciate a group of identifiable events. By looking for a Pattern we begin to appreciate aspects and elements that were not available when we were up close and personally entangled. By looking for and identifying a Pattern we create a schema for viewing. As the vantage point grows we create greater space and the Pattern emerges. And from there, 'that thing I do' becomes more observable, manageable, memorable and understandable. 

How it began?

The origin of the name of Pattern Catcher occurred quite spontaneously in the midst of a coaching session.In the spirit of co-creation and co-discovery we were discussing a practical process tool that could be applied to help implement a change in behaviour

As the conversation progressed I heard myself say the words. "Think of this situation as a Pattern and use the tool to Catch the Pattern. This way you become a Pattern Catcher." I could see the person I was working with resonate with the idea.

And so the term was born. And here we are. Several years down the track sharing what has emerged since that initial conversation and these moments of inspiration.

This is an invitation to become a Pattern Catcher. It is set up to help you apply a process and utilise it to the level your needs dictate. A process that can be applied, as you will see, in the following ways:

• Self-Led and Self Directed – Online

• As a couple or a partnership 

• As a team

• As a coach or facilitator guiding others

How do we work?

Our approach is a compassionate one. Agenda-less. Welcoming and curious. Through ‘Withness’ (being with what is) we can be compassionate and curious to see what every belief, every sensation, every feeling has for us. Being relational this way we are showing up with an eco mind. We see that everything is connected and everything has its place. Relational aspects of this approach allow us to validate particular data, in order to make discoveries through curiosity, compassion and openness, Accepting and Honouring all that we find creates the conditions for possible Transformation. Remember - Working ‘with what is’, not against it. Adopting an appreciation for being multifaceted allows us to embrace all parts and aspects of ourselves and how we express ourselves day to day. Being multifaceted we can be: animated, reserved, cautious, loving, apprehensive, angered, joyful, frustrated, to name a few, and all these aspects can be recognised and valued.

How does catching my pattern unfold?

It begins when we give ourselves permission to pause, breathe and step back sufficiently to Observe. To quietly observe through spaciousness, with Curiosity, Compassion and Courage. As we practice observation we separate from the story, from the drama, from the recurrence of the Pattern in order to shift Perspective sufficiently to see a wholeness from our wholeness. To see what we have not before seen. And from this 'Seeing' new possibilities are born.

Why Patterns?

All life is rich with Patterns. Whole systems are made of Patterns. The human ecosystem, the planet earth, the universe, all micro and macro worlds contain Patterns of Life, Patterns of Energy, Flow, Chaos and Order.  Patterns help us understand, explain and relate to our world.

Identifying a pattern helps us create an objective focal point.

What do we create once we identify our patterns?

• A place holder for our attention

• A container for inquiry, and

• A map for navigation