By Michelanne Forster
Twice every year life coach Rebecca Mason offers six free sessions to playwrights, in honour of her father, Bruce Mason. I must admit I was a bit dubious about the value I would get from a stranger's comments via skype, but I had heard from Briar Grace- Smith that the sessions were very helpful so I decided to apply. In the back of my mind I was sure that the issues I needed to address were about being a better businessperson and promoter of my work. I've always found this aspect of playwriting a burden. I was surprised to discover after a number of exercises and guided discussions with Rebecca that my main preoccupation was actually my health. For years I have been battling chronic repetitive strain injury or, occupational overuse syndrome. My shoulders ached, my forearms and hands ached, my neck ached. I have had all kinds of treatments but the underlying problem never went away. Writing hurt. Rebecca helped me set up systems to get me moving in the right direction, towards a new set of goals. She had many practical suggestions as I gradually focused on enjoying the vitality I would feel with regular exercise. She gave me tools to stick to my good resolutions, and basically changed my headspace about what was most important to me. The end result was most unexpected. I started taking ballet lessons, something I've always wanted to do but never thought I could. After all, I told myself, I'm too old, too stiff and already half crippled with OOS. What was the point? Rebecca helped me to address the negative conversations I was having with myself and I found her perceptive, professional questioning of my assumptions and patterns very useful. Her coaching sessions were fun and challenging. Playwrights, this is a great opportunity – seize it.
You can find out more about Rebecca's work at www.genratec.com/rmason
