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Understanding Parts and Internal Family Systems

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Over the years, I’ve been studying and applying Internal Family Systems (IFS), or “parts work”, both in my own life and with my clients. Lately, I’ve been exploring an idea that fascinates me: how certain parts of ourselves can negatively manifest the future we want — even when we consciously desire success, happiness, or growth.

If you’ve ever felt blocked or like your efforts to achieve your goals were being quietly sabotaged, this blog is for you.

What I Mean by Manifesting

“Manifesting” might feel like a strange or even off-putting term. But for me, it’s simple: it’s about getting clear on what you want for your future.

For example, if you’re looking for a new marketing role, simply being clear about it increases the chances that you’ll notice opportunities around you. You might overhear someone on a train talking about a job in marketing, or make a connection that leads you to exactly what you’re seeking.

Manifesting isn’t just about focus; there’s also an energetic component. When your system is truly aligned with your desires, it sends out an energy that attracts the right people, situations, and opportunities. It’s not “woo” — our energetic transmission can actually be measured scientifically.

Understanding Internal Family Systems

Internal Family Systems is based on the idea that we all have multiple parts inside us, each with its own motivations and intentions.

Some parts are young, some mature. Some are evolved, and some are less so. They can conflict with one another, influence your decisions, or even wake you up in the middle of the night.

For instance, when buying a house, one part of you might crave a big garden, while another part wants to live in the city. These parts exist to protect and serve you, but sometimes they hold onto fear, scarcity, or past trauma. And it’s these fearful parts that can unintentionally prevent you from manifesting what you want.

You Can’t Get Rid of Parts — And That’s a Good Thing

A core principle of IFS is that there are no “bad” parts. Each part emerged to protect you or make life manageable in some way.

If a part of you is terrified of success, it might create doubts, hesitations, or even self-sabotage. You can’t simply shut that part down — it’s an essential part of your system.

Instead, the key is to build a relationship with your parts. Ask:

  • Why does this part exist?

  • What is it protecting me from?

  • What does it need to feel safe?

By understanding and supporting your parts, you can release the energy that holds you back, including negative patterns that block your success or growth.

How to Work With Your Parts

You can explore your parts with a parts therapist, with me as your coach, or even through journaling. Start by noticing your internal dialogue — the voices that arise when you feel fear, doubt, or hesitation.

Listen to these parts without judgment. Understand their tone, their needs, and their intentions. Think of it like being a benevolent CEO: you can’t fire them, but you can support them. By doing this, you allow every part of your system to contribute positively — and this is often the key to successfully manifesting your goals.

Why This Matters

Many of us try to overpower fearful parts with our ambitious, aspiring parts. That might work temporarily, but when bigger challenges arise, those unacknowledged parts can quietly hold us back.

By getting to know your inner parts, especially those that are fearful or protective, you create a system where all parts work together. The result? More alignment, less internal resistance, and a higher likelihood of manifesting the life you truly want.

Final Thoughts

Working with IFS and understanding your parts isn’t just about “fixing” yourself. It’s about embracing the fullness of who you are, understanding the messages behind your fears, and using that awareness to step confidently into your future.

If you’d like to explore this further or need guidance, I’d be happy to support you. Feel free to reach out — understanding your parts could be the key to manifesting your next big breakthrough.

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James O'Halloran
As a Business Coach I help Founders and those in Career Transition unlock problems and increase self-mastery so that they are confident in their direction and leadership. Through Career and Business Coaching, I help people who want to disrupt the(ir) status quo.

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