The magnificent castle metaphor is an inspiring and powerful tool to use in development programmes. Shared by Alison Maitland as part of her work with women leaders this metaphor helps practitioners and individuals explore the concept of self as context, a key principle in ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy).
Each room in the magnificent castle represents a unique part of the self. As a child you explore the castle and rooms with wonder and amazement however as time goes on, societal expectations and self-doubt can lead us to lock away rooms and lose some of these different parts. As practitioners we need to help our clients on the journey to reclaim their magnificent castle, embracing all aspects of who they are, and stepping towards a deeper understanding of their transcendent self.
Inspired by the work of John Wellwood, this metaphor offers a transformative perspective to help clients reconnect with and celebrate their full, authentic self.
This video is taken from our ‘Expert tips for ACT’ playlist on YouTube:
ALISON MAITLAND is a Health Professions Council Registered and BASES Accredited Psychologist who combines a deep understanding of human performance with the practical experience of leading in and working in a wide range of settings including sport, the private sector, charities and public life. Alison, alongside Liz Walker have set up “Becoming”, an organisation that supports businesses and organisations to develop L&D programmes that deliver both commercial benefits to businesses and a transformative shift for individuals.
