‘The dark times got me here’
Marilyn Devonish, 53, is a coach and therapist living in Watford, Hertfordshire. Six years ago, at 47, I did something I’d wanted to do since I was a little girl, and took up ballet. I’ve been taking weekly classes since, and love it – it’s a wonderful workout for my mind, body and brain.
It inspired me to do something else that I’d never had the confidence to do before – in 2021, I was elected as a local councillor. ‘Who knows what I’ll do next?!’ I joked to friends.
Until my early-30s, I was a shy, quiet introvert, and my life was couched in embarrassment, guilt and shame. I’d had a difficult childhood, before suffering illness and experiencing a tough relationship break-up.
All of this culminated in me contemplating suicide at 32. I contacted the Samaritans, had therapy, and the following year became a volunteer for them, so I could help others.
I also signed up to a personal-development course to help with my career. Although I had a Business degree, I didn’t have the confidence to seek a graduate job. I was studying to be a chartered accountant, but needed help to improve my communication skills
‘Until my 30s, I was a shy, quiet introvert’
once I realised I would have to speak to people and couldn’t hide behind the numbers.
The course wasn’t what I expected – it covered all aspects of self-improvement, including hypnotherapy. It was amazing, and that’s when I decided to give up my accountancy studies to become a coach and therapist.
Some events I’ve been through have been terrible, but as I look back I can see how they’ve shaped my life and added to its fabric. For me, it’s about recognising and appreciating that, rather than letting past suffering be a barrier to progress.
If I hadn’t gone through those dark times, I wouldn’t have the empathy I do – they made me who I am.
✣ See tranceformation stm.com