Why do we repeat the same familiar patterns?

From Galyna Halka’s author series, “Psychotherapy of Fairy Tales.” This is a psychological reading of a story: a metaphor for reflection, not a way to determine someone’s character or history.

In the folk tale, Kolobok — a little round bread character — sings his song again and again, escaping each encounter. Every success seems to strengthen his belief that the same approach will always work. But meeting the Fox is different.

I see a familiar situation here: a way of behaving once helped, but no longer works with different people or in different circumstances. People change. Circumstances change. Our familiar “song” stays the same.

What “song” do you sing when you are afraid of losing love, freedom, or closeness? You can bring this question into a conversation without rushing to answer it.

The same story can also be seen differently. Kolobok is small, the world is enormous, yet he boldly keeps going. Perhaps a child listening to the tale feels not its danger but its joy: “I can do it myself!”

I like to leave room for both readings: noticing familiar patterns and recognising our own strength. A favourite story can open a conversation about what resonates with you.