Be Willing

I’ve been teaching The Living Art for 6 years now and I’ve had the honor of helping a variety of people overcome their limits.  I often wonder why more people don’t walk this path.  Recently, I realized that most aren’t aware that something is missing nor what it means to turn within. Many become comfortable with masking the uncomfortable feeling that keeps poking them by turning to something that will numb the pain.  Is it that evening beverage, working out obsessively, the “buy now” retail therapy loop, or has food become a forever bestie? Instead of listening, turning to a familiar pattern might feel like a viable solution, but the reality is—it will never be a sustainable path to lasting inner peace.  The reason?  Because what requires healing is inside of you, not outside of you.  External distractions pull you further away.

The Journey Begins.

When I review the different ways people have come to and intersected with my work, I see that there is one critical component on the journey of inner transformation.  There is a starting point that is the same for everyone.  And that is the first step.

We’ve all heard, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”  That single step is so important because it is your first step.  I want to take you even deeper so that by the end of this post, you are crystal clear about what “taking the first step” means when it comes to applying it directly to your own life.

So, what is the first step?  Where are you stepping?  In what direction should you be looking?  This way?  That way?  Where???  Before you get overwhelmed, just consider this.  Think of the “first step” as an internal switch that needs to be turned on.  Therefore, it’s not a physical step. It is a decision that you make within yourself so you can start the process of change.  The crucial “first step” is being willing—being willing to introspect and get to know yourself.  To be willing to get to know you, the real you, maybe for the first time.  This is your first step.   

The tricky part is that there is a difference between saying “I’m willing” and actually “being willing.”  You can say “I’m willing”, but then continue to ignore doing the actual work.  This is not “being willing”, but it’s pretending to be willing so you can trick yourself. This will only take you around in circles, eventually leaving you feeling frustrated and hopeless because no-thing is changing in your life. Let’s set ourselves up for success, instead.

Embrace An Introspective Journaling Practice:

Being willing, truly willing, is an internal shift that occurs so you can start the process of looking within.  Being willing means, you give yourself permission to pause and look at yourself.  To slow down so you can introspect.  To look at yourself without any shame or fear, but with a curiosity. Then, you act.  Journaling is a wonderful way to start the introspective process as it allows you to explore and discover.  Start with a notebook and pen, then begin by asking yourself, “How am I doing today?  I mean, really doing.  Do I have any tension?  What might be causing it?” Set the intentional space so you can allow whatever appears.  Instead of trying to change what you hear or distort what you know to be true in your heart, see if you can approach this exercise without any judgements. You are the observer and your job is to listen and record.

To learn more about how to start your own journaling practice, I’ve written an entire blog post called “Journaling: A Path Within”.

Make time each day to do a simple check-in with yourself.  You don’t have to create a complicated list of prompts to follow or put pressure on yourself to “perform”.  Rather, you’re showing up with the intention to just see how you are doing on the inside.

Be Willing & Be Transformed.

The most important component of this entire process is YOU.  Unless you show up for you, your life is going to continue along the same course.  Until you decide that you’ve had enough, the locomotive called “my life” will keep chugging along the internal tracks that you’ve laid in place.

Even if these tracks were put in place unconsciously and even if they are causing you harm, they are the dominant narratives that control your life.  You will not switch tracks unless you become conscious and start creating the new pathways within yourself.    

If you don’t take the time to get to know yourself and take care of your inner-self, nothing will change.  So, stay curious and understand that you’re taking the steps to build a relationship with yourself.  It will take time, practice and devotion, but it is a path filled with promise and profound beauty.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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Taoism

Rooted In Flow

My journey with Taoism began during my college years when I stumbled upon this ancient Chinese philosophical and religious tradition.  Its emphasis on living in harmony with the natural world instantly captivated me.  Rooted in indigenous Chinese beliefs and practices, Taoism has evolved through a tumultuous history, at times serving as China's official religion and at other times, nearly being eradicated during the Cultural Revolution.  Yet, Taoism has endured, and together with Confucianism, stands as one of the great philosophical traditions native to China.  I’d like to share how Taoism is still absolutely relevant to the modern-day seeker and how one of the core concepts can be folded into our lives.

The History of Taoism

Although the exact origins of Taoism are difficult to trace, it is generally believed to have developed around the 6th to 4th centuries BCE.  Lao Tzu, also known as Laozi, is a legendary figure in Chinese history and is considered the founder of Taoism.  He is believed to have lived around the 6th century BCE, although the exact dates of his life are debated among scholars.  The name "Lao Tzu" can be translated as "Old Master" or "Venerable Master," reflecting the reverence with which he is regarded.  He is traditionally attributed as the author of the Tao Te Ching, one of the most important texts in Taoist philosophy.  It offers profound wisdom on living in harmony with the natural world, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, adaptability, and balance in life.

In Taoism, "the Way" (Tao) is a fundamental concept that represents the natural order and harmony of the universe.  The Tao is often described as an indescribable force that underlies all existence and cannot be fully comprehended through human language or thought.  It is the ultimate reality, the source of all things, and the guiding principle of the cosmos.  The Tao is both transcendent and immanent, meaning that it exists beyond the physical world while also being present within it.  I can still recall my young mind grappling with this definition/non-definition of the Tao.  As a young student, I found this notion challenging to comprehend, but I've since discovered that the true essence of Taoism can only be grasped by living its teachings.

Over time, my understanding of the Tao has evolved. Once, I perceived the Tao as synonymous with movement, but now I recognize it as a Presence that encompasses movement without being defined by it.  Meaning, the movement is secondary to the primary position of expanding consciousness that is still, yet active.  This seeming contradiction is central to Taoist principle of “wu-wei”, or the art of effortless action.  Wu-wei litrally means “no action” or “non-action”.  It is the practice of moving in harmony with the natural flow of the universe, allowing life to unfold without resistance or struggle.    

The Taoist Farmer

There's an ancient Taoist story of a farmer who lost his horse.  Instead of lamenting his misfortune, he remained calm and accepted the turn of events.  Soon, the horse returned with three wild horses, and the farmer's neighbors praised his good luck.  However, the farmer's son broke his leg while trying to tame one of the wild horses, and the neighbors sympathized with the farmer's bad luck.  Yet, the farmer remained accepting and detached, and soon after, an army invaded the region, conscripting all able-bodied young men.  The farmer's son was spared due to his injury, and the farmer's neighbors marveled at his good fortune.  This story illustrates the essence of wu-wei, accepting the natural flow of life without resistance.  The farmer didn’t get attached to the idea of good or bad, but simply allowed the unfolding of life to flow uninhibited.

Cultivating Wu-wei

When it comes to seeking our purpose, this cornerstone of Chinese philosophy can be our guide.  From the perspective of The Living Art, finding your purpose is about aligning with your greater potential.  I explore this topic further in my post “What Is My Purpose?”  This core alignment requires a certain flexibility because it’s not a predetermined path.  In this context, wu-wei encourages us to remain open and receptive to the natural flow of life instead of being rigid and tense.  By embracing non-action and releasing our preconceived notions of what our purpose should be, we create space for the universe to reveal our true path.

Cultivating wu-wei in regard to aligning with your potential can be a very supportive practice that involves:

1. Trusting intuition: Pay attention to the subtle messages and synchronicities that guide you toward your path.  Open up to a greater intelligence and trust the wisdom of your inner voice.

2. Embracing uncertainty: Do not fear the unknown.  Instead, welcome the mystery and potential for growth that comes with uncertainty so you can welcome a new vision into your life.

3. Being adaptable: Remain flexible and open to change.  Understand that your potential may reveal itself in layers and evolve over time, so adapt as needed while you let go and follow.

4. Mindful observation: Pay attention to the present moment without judgment or expectation.  Notice the subtle cues from your environment by learning to “listen” and respond accordingly.

5. Surrender: Accept that you cannot control every aspect of life.  Release the need to micromanage and trust the natural process of unfolding that is inviting you on a journey.

6. Patience: Allow things to unfold in their own time.  Do not force progress or rush toward a specific outcome, thinking you must pounce on something or else you’ll miss out.

7. Being present: Anchor yourself in the present moment.  This is the only place where true change and transformation can occur, so it’s an essential to become grounded in the Now.

8. Nurtured by nature: Nature serves as a profound teacher in Taoist thought.  Observe the countless lessons on harmony, resilience, and the cyclical nature of existence to harmonize with nature.

Taoists believe that by understanding and living in harmony with the Tao, individuals can achieve inner peace, balance, and spiritual growth.  This involves cultivating virtues such as simplicity, humility, and compassion, and embracing the natural flow of life without resistance.  When we limit ourselves, we impinge upon the effortless flow of the Tao and create friction in our own lives.  Letting go then, becomes a restoration of what is intrinsic and natural within all of us.  Spending time in the presence of nature allows us to emulate the fluidity of water, the rootedness of trees, and the boundlessness of the sky to bring us closer to the wisdom of the Tao.

Lao Tzu's Advice

If we could sit with Lao Tzu and ask him about our purpose, I wondered how he might respond?  I imagine that he would likely advise us to embody wu-wei as we seek our purpose, allowing the answers to emerge naturally rather than forcing a specific outcome.  Lao Tzu might say to us, "Do not search for your purpose, but instead let it find you.  Move through life with grace and ease, aligned with the Tao, and your purpose will reveal itself."  We can then follow his guidance by practicing stillness, being present to life and embracing the journey because purpose is the process of aligning with potential—a natural flourishing of the Tao.  By integrating wu-wei into our daily lives, we create the conditions for our purpose to reveal itself organically. Through non-doing, we open ourselves to the wisdom of the universe, allowing our true path to emerge and guide us toward a life of meaning, fulfillment, and harmony.

The ancient wisdom of Taoism offers a refreshing perspective on life, urging us to slow down, embrace simplicity, and cultivate inner balance.  By integrating the principles and practices of Taoism into our daily lives, we can embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth, ultimately realizing our true potential.  As we align ourselves with the Tao and embody its timeless teachings, we empower ourselves to create a life of harmony, fulfillment, and inner peace, transcending the limitations of our modern world and embracing the boundless possibilities that lie within.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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Sacred Hinoki

Nature's Healing Embrace

Have you ever walked barefoot among the presence of an old growth forest?   Feeling the soft cushioning of the forest floor receive the weight of your body with each step is a deeply healing experience.  There is no doubt that spending time in nature leads to numerous benefits, especially when our modern lives take us further and further away from that place of union.  We can become isolated in man-made structures and find ourselves yearning for a deeper connection with nature and its healing powers.  Amidst the chaos of a hectic life, the ancient wisdom of a sacred tree can offer a pathway to well-being, tranquility, and a renewed sense of harmony with the natural world.  

Deep Roots of An Evergreen

Upon the shores of the island nation of Japan, there grows an evergreen native to this land.  Chamaecyparis obtuse, or hinoki, is a highly revered cypress tree that is deeply connected to the people of Japan.  It is an evergreen coniferous tree that can grow up to 120 feet (35 meters) tall, although it typically reaches a height of around 50-70 feet (15-21 meters) in cultivation.  The tree has a pyramidal shape, with a straight trunk and dense, dark green foliage consisting of small, scale-like leaves.  There are two commonly used characters for this tree, and both are correct.  檜 (hinoki) is an old form of the character and often appears in traditional and historical texts or within religious contexts.  However, after WWII preference is given to the newer, simplified form of 桧 (hinoki).  For centuries, hinoki has held a significant place in Japanese culture, spirituality, and daily life.  With its elegant form, gorgeous wood, and distinctive lemony-cypress scent, hinoki has been celebrated for its beauty, resilience, and healing properties.

Historically, hinoki has been deeply intertwined with the Shinto religion—Japan's indigenous faith system that emphasizes the presence of divine spirits (神, kami) within the natural world.  Hinoki is highly valued in Japan for its timber, which is known for its exceptional quality.  The wood is fragrant, light, and has a fine, straight grain, making it highly resistant to rot and decay.  The tree is often associated with purity and is considered a sacred tree in Shinto religion.  Its pleasant fragrance is believed to purify the space and create a serene and sacred atmosphere for worship and rituals.  Many Shinto shrines are built using hinoki wood for this reason, and branches of the tree are used as a symbol of purification in various Shinto rituals.  Hinoki timber's natural durability and resistance to rot make it an ideal material for building structures that are meant to withstand the test of time.  Temples built with hinoki can last 1000 years and some even longer.  Horyuji Temple in Nara, Japan was built in 607 AD and is the world’s oldest surviving wooden structure using hinoki, estimated to be roughly 2000 years old. 

Shintoism's reverence for nature stems from the belief that the natural world is a source of life, power, and wisdom.  The Japanese people believe that living in harmony with nature and respecting the kami is essential to maintaining balance and well-being in their lives.  The close relationship between humans and nature in Shintoism encourages the Japanese to appreciate and care for the environment, resulting in a deep-rooted spiritual connection to the natural world.   

Therefore, the spiritual significance of the Japanese hinoki extends beyond Shintoism as well.  The Japanese have integrated hinoki wood into various aspects of daily life, from the construction of traditional homes and soaking tubs to crafting delicate objects and art pieces. In Japanese culture, the tree's resilience, elegance, and longevity are often seen as symbols of strength and endurance, qualities that are admired and respected.  The tree's presence in traditional Japanese gardens and its cultivation as bonsai serve as reminders of these virtues and the importance of living in harmony with nature.

The Healing Power of Hinoki: A Gift from Nature

Hinoki's soothing, fragrant aroma and natural strength have long been recognized for their life-enhancing benefits.  As a symbol of purification and renewal, hinoki's healing properties are grounded in its unique combination of physical and spiritual attributes.  Over time, hinoki’s enduring presence in Japanese life and spirituality is a testament to the powerful bond between nature and the human spirit.  It is a relationship that continues into this modern era, and it is one anyone can benefit from by consciously spending more time with nature.  The versatile, life-enhancing properties of hinoki can easily be integrated into your wellness routine, enriching your life with its unique gifts.  Here are some suggestions for inviting hinoki’s soothing presence into your daily rituals—to invite the outdoors in.

Aromatherapy:

Hinoki's essential oil, derived from its fragrant wood, is renowned for its therapeutic effects on both body and mind.  It has a refreshing wood scent with soft herbal/lemony overtones that will instantly remind you of being in the forest.  The oil's crisp, woody aroma has been traditionally used in Japanese incense and perfumery, and its scent is known to instill a sense of calm and relaxation.  Modern studies have shown that hinoki essential oil contains various terpenes, such as alpha-pinene and limonene, which contribute to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.  These compounds help alleviate stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being.

= Authentic Hinoki Essential Oil from Japan

= All natural wood diffuser

Skin Care:

Hinoki's natural antifungal and antibacterial properties make it an ideal ingredient in skin care products.  Hinoki oil can help soothe sensitive or irritated skin, reduce redness and inflammation, and promote healthy skin.  Its natural moisturizing properties leave skin feeling soft, supple, and rejuvenated.  Elevate your daily cleansing routine with a hinoki-infused soap.  The soap's natural antimicrobial and moisturizing properties will leave your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and nourished.  The subtle scent of hinoki will transport you to a serene forest grove, providing a moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

= Hinoki Wood Soap

= Hinoki Soap Dish

Bath Ritual:

Bathing, particularly in hot springs or “onsen," is an important cultural tradition in Japan that has been practiced for centuries.  It is seen as a way to relax, rejuvenate, and promote good health.  For a spa-like experience, consider adding hinoki to your bath routine to boost your immune system and strengthen your body’s natural defenses.  You could add a few drops of hinoki essential oil to your bathwater or use a “hinoki sachet” that is filled with hinoki wood shaving to your water to turn your water into a hinoki tea.  The wood's natural oils and pleasant aroma will fill your bathroom with a sense of peace and relaxation, transforming your daily bathing routine into a rejuvenating, meditative practice. Add a hinoki infused candle to set the mood and ease the body and mind into total relaxation.

= Hinoki Tea Bath Sachet

= Hinoki Grapefruit Cypress Candle

Spiritual Connection:

Hinoki’s calming, grounding energy can help you deepen your connection with your inner self and the natural world, fostering a sense of balance and well-being.  Burning incense at a Shinto Temple plays an important role as it’s known to purify the surroundings and bring forth the beneficial energies of gods and bodhisattvas.  By incorporating hinoki incense into your life, you can invite not only its calming energy, but the beauty of the temples into your experience—fostering a profound and deeply nourishing home environment.  The delicate scent of hinoki will naturally cleanse your space and invite serenity into your home.

= Hinoki Incense

= Japanese Concrete Incense Holder

Be Inspired.

The warm scent of hinoki instantly reminds me of family onsen (hot springs) vacations where we would use hinoki charcoal soap, and it holds a very special place in my heart. The sacred hinoki, with its rich history and deeply rooted connection to Japanese culture and spirituality, offers a pathway to tranquility and harmony with the natural world.  By embracing the tree's life-enhancing gifts, you can invite its soothing, fragrant essence into your daily life, nurturing your body, mind, and spirit.  As you journey towards a deeper connection with nature and yourself, let one of the most sacred trees of Japan guide you and inspire you to live a life of balance, serenity, and vibrant well-being.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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The Power of Honesty

Overcoming Fear and Finding Your Resonant Path

The Challenge of Finding Life's Direction

Throughout my experiences, I've met countless individuals grappling with the challenge of finding their life's direction.  A common thread binds their stories: fear and uncertainty held them back, preventing them from taking the necessary steps to fulfill their dreams.  In many instances, this fear originates from their inability to be honest with themselves about their true desires in life.

Listening to our inner voice means prioritizing ourselves, which can be uncomfortable for many.  Consequently, other responsibilities take precedence, daily life's monotony sets in, and we increasingly distance ourselves from that quiet inner guidance.  Introducing such clarity into our lives can be overwhelming, especially when societal norms have dictated that our aspirations don't matter.

I'm here to assure you—and all those I've encountered in the past—that you absolutely do matter. Embracing the power of honesty can initiate the process of connecting with a life that invigorates and empowers you.

 Honesty as a Transformative Power

Honesty is a fundamental aspect of our personal growth and development.  It refers to the quality of being truthful, genuine, and sincere in one's thoughts, feelings, and actions.  It involves being open and transparent, both with oneself and with others, and refraining from deceit, exaggeration, or distortion of the truth.  Honesty is a key aspect of personal integrity and is essential for building trust, fostering healthy relationships, and maintaining self-respect.  In essence, honesty means aligning one's words and actions with reality and being authentic in one's interactions and self-reflection.

Harnessing the transformative power of honesty means we're able to perceive life exactly as it is, without distortion or rejection. To simply observe life—no filters or blind spots—so we can see what is actually happening.  For example, let's say we are miserable at our job, but we refuse to admit it because it is supposed to be our “dream job.”  When we feel unhappy at work, we immediately deny how we feel and quickly replace the honest feelings with a well-crafted excuse.  So, we've trained ourselves to accept the lie and disregard how we authentically feel.

When we hit pockets of emotional turmoil within ourselves, our tendency is to ignore or deny it. Creating a life that is an expression of our highest potential intrinsically requires a willingness to confront our innermost fears, doubts, and insecurities. It demands that we take an honest look at our lives and evaluate what works and what doesn't.  Honesty is not always easy simply because we have yet to befriend its transformative power.  Learning how to integrate honesty into our life is foundational to the work of metamorphosis if we are truly aimed towards a fulfilling and purposeful life.

a list of potential clues that we’re not being honest

• Engaging in emotional eating or other unhealthy coping mechanisms to avoid dealing with negative emotions, such as eating ice cream when feeling sad.

• Consistently complaining about certain aspects of our lives, but never taking action to address the underlying issues.

• Avoiding conversations or situations that could bring up difficult emotions or require facing an uncomfortable truth.

• Frequently making excuses for our behavior or choices, rather than acknowledging any personal responsibility.

• Exhibiting procrastination or self-sabotaging behaviors, which can signal a deeper issue we're unwilling to confront.

• Experiencing physical symptoms, such as chronic stress, anxiety, or fatigue, which may indicate unresolved emotional issues.

• Constantly seeking external validation, approval, or attention as a way to avoid addressing personal dissatisfaction or insecurity.

• Pursuing goals or interests based on societal expectations or the desires of others, rather than our own authentic passions.

• Frequently feeling resentful or envious of others, which may signal an underlying dissatisfaction with our own life choices.

• Struggling with indecision or constantly changing our minds about important life decisions, potentially reflecting a fear of facing our true desires.

It's important to note that these clues can vary from person to person, and not all of these behaviors may indicate a lack of honesty with oneself.  However, if we consistently exhibits several of these patterns, it may suggest we are struggling with being honest about our feelings, desires, or needs.

The Struggle with Honesty

The Fear of Discovery

One of the reasons people struggle with being honest with themselves is that they are afraid of what they might find.  They fear that they may discover they are not living the life they truly desire or that they have been wasting their time and energy pursuing something that does not align with their core.  This fear can be paralyzing, but it is crucial to remember that this is a natural response, and it doesn't have to be our final response.  If we give up when we meet resistance, then we've just been defined by the fear.  That is one option, but overcoming our fears so we can move forward is an equally valid option.  The choice is ours to make. 

The Fear of Consequences

Another reason people struggle with honesty is that they fear the consequences of being honest.  They worry that they may upset others or cause conflict in their relationships if they choose a new path.  This fear of confrontation and conflict can feel too intense, but honesty is always the best policy because it is rooted in truth.  Some people also have anxiety about altering their current life because it has become comfortable.  Change introduces an unknown factor, and this might be too overwhelming to process, so people shut down to possibility.

In the short term, honesty can feel like an impenetrable wall that we'd rather turn our backs to, so we never have to look at it again.  However, in the long run, being honest with ourselves and others is always the most beneficial and rewarding path.  The consequences can be managed, and we are fully capable of doing so.  No matter what, there is a passageway leading us forward.  Being honest honors what is important to us, and this is what we must cultivate in our life if we seek change.

  Tapping into the Power of Honesty

So how can we tap into the power of honesty and use it to connect with our life's potential?  The first step is to give ourselves permission to do this work.  To acknowledge that it can feel scary but be reassured—we’re strong enough to make this effort and learn more about ourselves in the process.  Once we’ve primed the engine, we’re ready to take an honest look at our lives and evaluate what is working and what isn't.  We need to be willing to ask ourselves some tough questions and confront any fears or doubts that may arise, without listening to any limiting thought patterns that can get triggered.  Letting go of anything that no longer serves us doesn’t necessarily mean an upheaval of our lives, but rather changing how we approach the moment which will allow us to move towards the things that truly matter to us.

 A Three-Stage Process for Cultivating Honesty

1. Create a "Truth Box"

Designate a small box or container as your “Truth Box.”  Whenever you catch yourself being dishonest or avoiding the truth, write it down on a piece of paper and place it in the box.  Do this for at least a full week and don’t open the box until the end of the weeklong period.

 2. Make Time for Self-Reflection

After the week has passed, find a quiet place where you can be alone with your thoughts and dedicate a full hour for this exercise.  You’ll want to have a journal ready for this part of the process as you start by asking yourself questions like, “What do I really want out of life?” and “Am I happy with my current situation?”  Write down your answers without editing and reflect on them before you open the “Truth Box.”

•  Next, open the box and read the messages you have deposited for the week. Read them one at a time and then compare what you wrote to the journal entry you just created.  Does anything stand out to you?  What insight can you gather about yourself?  What thought patterns are holding you back because you haven’t been honest with yourself?

•  Use this time for self-reflection and self-exploration.  Give yourself full permission to be honest and state what you are authentically feeling.  If you feel hesitant, write that.  If you feel scared, that is being honest.  Write that down.  Your goal here is to give expression to the little voice that has been trying to get your attention.

 3. Take a Solo Hike

Pack your journal, pen, water, and snacks as you embark on a solo hiking adventure.  This is an experience exclusively for you and you alone. It will provide you with the opportunity to focus on your inner voice and gain a deeper understanding of your true desires.  During this hike, you’re going to find a meditative spot in nature where you’ll sit and read over your journal notes from the previous exercise.  Use this time to reflect on your life and the choices you've made, allowing yourself to be honest about what you want to achieve next.

• Reflect and then listen. Put your journal down, turn your phone off, and listen.  Listen to the wind, feel the breeze on your face, soak up the warmth of the sunshine.  Just be still and be open to listen.

•  Allow whatever insight comes to you to speak to you. Keep the door open and receive.

•  When you are finished, give gratitude for the experience of Presence and make a promise to yourself that you’re going to find a way to take action upon the insight.

Embracing Honesty for Personal Growth

The power of honesty lies in its ability to connect us with our true selves.  No more hiding or pretending that we’re satisfied when we know deep down that we are not fulfilled.  Crafting this level of intimacy with ourselves is very humbling, but most of all, an extremely rewarding experience.  When we’re totally vulnerable and open to the truth, it enables us to live authentically and in alignment with our core values and beliefs.  It empowers us to pursue our dreams and live our full potential because we’re finally listening to what WE desire.  When we are honest with ourselves, we are able to make better decisions, build stronger relationships, and create a more fulfilling life.

Welcoming the power of honesty into our lives cannot be overstated.  It is essential if we are to connect with our life's potential and live a life that is in resonance with who we intrinsically be.  We need to be willing to confront our fears and doubts and be honest with ourselves about what truly matters to us.  Each step of the way can be guided by a new vision as we integrate the past so we can dance in the light of wisdom.  By stepping out of our comfort zones, we can consciously create a life around our innermost dreams and aspirations.  When we do this, we can unlock our true potential and live a life that is truly worth living. As we continue to develop our relationship with honesty, we'll find that it becomes a guiding force in our lives, leading us towards a more fulfilling, purposeful, and authentic existence.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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What Is My Purpose?

Unlocking the Mystery of Your Life's PurposE

The age-old question, “What is my purpose?" has echoed through the hearts of countless individuals across time.  This enigmatic query has both intrigued and daunted us, often leaving us feeling adrift in a seemingly never-ending search for answers.  My own quest for meaning began during my college years when I delved into the world of Eastern Philosophy.  I found myself captivated by the wisdom emanating from these ancient masters, and I knew I had to learn more.

As life unfolded, it became my greatest teacher.  Embracing the role of a devoted student, I have followed a longing to know and walked this path of discovery ever since.  In doing so, I've unearthed a revelation that is essential to our evolution of Self, and it is directly related to purpose.  The question, "What is my purpose?" feels like it is charged by a mysterious vortex that is propelling us to seek and find greater meaning in our life.  However, in my research on growth and human potential, it is not as significant as we have come to believe.  Instead, there is something far more profound—aligning with our limitless potential. 

Embrace Your Infinite Potential

The concept of purpose is often perceived as something we must "find" or "uncover," as if it were an elusive treasure awaiting our discovery.  However, the truth is that nothing in life is absolutely predetermined.  While natural tendencies exist, we possess the power to transcend them.

The notion of purpose can be restrictive, as it implies that we are destined for a single path in life.  Yet, we are complex beings with a multitude of interests and capabilities.  Our potential is not confined to a singular purpose or occupation; it stems from our connection to the infinite All.  As such, your potential represents the boundless energy ready to be channeled through you and into the world.

Our highest potential serves as a compass, guiding and inspiring us to continually evolve.  This journey is not about becoming a specific label, such as an engineer or data analyst.  Our true potential lies beyond these realms, within the vast expanse of Creation.  If we have a purpose, it is to constantly grow and transform into extraordinary human beings, as we become increasingly aligned with our potential.  Purpose, then, is not a destination, but the journey of uncovering what our potential truly is.

So, what does it mean to align with our potential as human beings?  It involves transcending our past conditioning to embrace the best version of ourselves and honor all aspects of our being.  Through conscious choices, we determine what is important to us and how we wish to contribute to the world.  It is the process of immersing ourselves in a harmonious flow that resonates from our very core by doing our inner work and healing our fracturing.  

Each of us possesses a unique combination of talents, passions, and experiences that naturally support a form of expression that is uniquely tuned to each of us.  By exploring and nurturing these facets of our being, we can align with our potential, creating a life that is both fulfilling and empowering because it is an act of becoming.  The various threads of who you BE flow together as a cohesive song to offer to the world.

How do we begin this alignment?  

The journey starts with a deep understanding of ourselves.  Here are four practical tips to help you embark on this path of self-discovery:

1. Journaling: 1.     Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be a powerful tool for self-reflection.  I’ve written a post on this topic of journaling which you can read here.  Dedicate time each day to journaling, and explore the following questions:

·      What brings me joy?

·      What am I passionate about?

·      What are my strengths and weaknesses?

·      What experiences have shaped me into the person I am today?

·      What kind of impact do I want to have on the world?

2. Spend time in nature: Regularly immerse yourself in natural settings to quiet the noise of everyday life, allowing for deeper introspection and self-discovery.  When was the last time you walked barefoot or woke up early to step outside and greet the rising sun?  Get outside and engage your senses, practice mindful walking, reflect on your experiences, and observe nature's wisdom to foster a greater understanding of your true self.

3. Experiment with new experiences: Actively pursue new hobbies, join clubs or organizations, and attend workshops or classes that interest you.  These experiences can not only help you uncover hidden passions or talents, but they help you break free of routines and conditioned patterning, so you are more open to possibilities.  You’ll find that it fosters your understanding of yourself and the world around you.

4. Practice gratitude: Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can help you become more aware of the positive aspects of your life and shift your focus towards what fuels you to grow.  Pick a consistent time each day (when you first wake up, at noon or before you go to bed) to take 5 minutes to close your eyes reflect on what you are grateful for.  Instead of it being a list you cruise through, feel the emotion of gratitude, and allow it to soak your entire being. 

Action Leads to Success

Endeavor to incorporate at least one of the above-mentioned practical tips in your daily life.  By doing so, you can foster a deep understanding of yourself and start building a practice for inner exploration.  This is the foundation of aligning with your true potential.  Potential is not something you can learn from a textbook or a Google search because it is an intimate, internal process of embodying and becoming a living masterpiece.

Remember, your potential is unique to you and can only be discovered by traversing your own path. My work here with The Living Art is devoted to helping people walk this pathless path.  The key is to remain authentic to your own process of blossoming and not be swayed by societal expectations or the opinions of others.  You are learning to be guided by the unseen dimensions of your innate essence, which comes alive as you focus in on that direction.  By opening up to the possibility that life has more to offer, you begin to unlock your true potential. 

The question “What is my purpose?" can serve as a valuable catalyst for self-reflection.  However, the ultimate goal is not to reveal a predetermined purpose, but to cultivate our inner world and allow our potential to flourish from within.  As a human being, you have the capacity to craft a life that is both fulfilling and meaningful.  By exploring our passions, developing our talents, and staying true to ourselves, we can align with our potential and create a life that is uniquely harmonized to us.

May this message resonate with you, igniting your curiosity and inspire you to embark on your own journey of self-discovery to BE the living expression of your highest potential.  You possess the power to create a beautiful and rewarding life—all that is required is the courage to believe that it is within your grasp.  I cannot tell you what your own personal experience will be, but I can absolutely tell you that it is the most exquisite journey.    

Embrace the adventure of aligning with your infinite potential, and revel in the knowledge that you are capable of crafting a life that is truly yours.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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