How Do You Butter Your Toast? How Do You Live Your Life?

A playful text message between Coach & Client.

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I recently had a coaching session with a client. We were having a conversation about communication and working on letting go of the need to control situations. During our conversation they mentioned how the simple things are indicators of larger trends. ​

One example that they used was: 
"if my partner can't butter toast properly, then how can I expect them to do the more important things in life correctly?"

In the spirit of curiosity, I found this statement to be fascinating. While I couldn't necessarily relate to this specific example It stuck with me all day. So here we are, writing a blog post surmising what our butter spreading tendencies say about us as a person.

​I do take confidentiality very seriously and received permission from my client to write this blog post. Their only request being that they get a cut of the royalties! I really do appreciate their playfulness around what is something that could be considered deeply personal. ​

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One such seemingly trivial act is buttering toast—a mundane task carried out by many each morning without a second thought. However, upon closer examination, the way we butter our toast can offer a glimpse into the deeper aspects of our lives. Let's explore how the way you butter your toast may be a reflection of how you approach and live your life.

The Spreader vs. The Patcher:
Imagine two individuals at breakfast. The first one, let's call them the "Spreader," takes the butter knife and smoothly glides it over the entire surface of the toast. Every inch receives a perfect layer of butter, evenly distributed from edge to edge. The second person, the "Patcher," takes a different approach. They sporadically dab bits of butter onto the toast, leaving some areas bare and others with a concentrated amount of butter.

The Spreader:
Precision and Order The Spreader approaches life with a sense of precision and order. They tend to be methodical in their endeavours, ensuring that every task is completed meticulously. The Spreader values consistency and evenness, striving for balance and harmony in various aspects of life. They may be inclined towards planning, organization, and attention to detail, valuing structure and predictability.

The Patcher:
Flexibility and Creativity In contrast, the Patcher thrives on flexibility and creativity. They embrace spontaneity and adaptability, thriving in situations that allow them to think outside the box. The Patcher is comfortable with imperfections and doesn't shy away from taking risks. They may enjoy exploring new experiences and finding unique solutions to challenges that come their way

The Generous Spread vs. The Minimalist Touch:
Moving beyond technique, the amount of butter applied also offers insights into one's approach to life.

The Generous Spreader:
Abundance and Generosity The Generous Spreader believes in abundance and indulgence. They liberally slather their toast with a generous amount of butter, emphasizing a desire for richness and enjoyment in life. They may have a generous spirit, sharing their time, resources, and love with others. The Generous Spreader often seeks pleasure and embraces the motto of "more is more."

The Minimalist Touch:
Simplicity and Moderation On the other hand, the Minimalist Touch represents simplicity and moderation. The Minimalist applies a thin layer of butter, recognizing that a little goes a long way. They find contentment in the understated and appreciate the beauty in simplicity. The Minimalist Touch individual may prioritize minimalism and intentional living, focusing on what truly matters and avoiding unnecessary clutter or excess.

Closing Thoughts
While buttering toast may seem insignificant, it can serve as a powerful metaphor for how we approach and live our lives. The Spreader or the Patcher, the Generous Spreader or the Minimalist Touch—each approach offers unique perspectives and insights into our values, attitudes, and preferences. Taking a moment to reflect on our toast-buttering habits can provide a gentle reminder to embrace the diversity of human experiences and recognize the intricate connections between even the most mundane aspects of our lives and our broader existence. So, the next time you butter your toast, consider the significance behind your chosen technique and amount. It might just unveil a fascinating reflection of your life's choices.

RyanVH Coaching