I am going to read this at least every week so it can go even more deeply into this evolving being. As I age I see and feel things with a broader perspective but am also discovering the inner child inside that has hidden parts of herself through the challenges of growth. Inside, outside, and all around I go!
I am really touched by these words, Jayn. I also wholeheartedly agree that the real source of who we’re meant to become is in returning to being more of what we’ve always been. We are born sufficient, whole, and in possession of everything we need to step into our limitless potential. The key is unlearning the conditioning and programming we’ve been school for and occupied by as "grown ups" and relearn the virtues of awe, wonder, curiosity, and playfulness of childhood!
There is so much depth to this article. We need to look at how outside influences impact the steps we take along our path. We need to slow down and find who we are as we tentatively step forward toward goals and then reassess. This is what I am working on!
Thank you, Brie. Good to check in with ourselves frequently and ask, "Who am I now?" and "Who do I wish to become?" We are all evolving works in progress!
I just finished listening to episode 2, where Kato mentioned that powerful quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson: “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines.” It brought to mind wisdom from different sources. The Shaman Don Miguel Ruiz taught the Four Agreements: be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best. Dr. Wayne Dyer emphasized staying immune to both praise and criticism. And then there's Einstein’s insight, “You can’t solve a problem with the same consciousness that created it,” which truly resonated with Kato’s message.
Could you clarify what you mean by "sharing our own power"? As I’m listening to the second episode, I find myself asking questions and reflecting as new insights come up. How do you define personal power? It’s a term that’s become pretty popular in personal development circles, but I’m curious about your perspective.
A generous question, Bonnie. Thank you. For me, personal power is tied to personal agency. Owning what is ours to own (our perceptions and actions) and not attaching our happiness or identity to what is not ours to own (almost everything else). My position is inspired by Stoic philosophy, especially the idea of the dichotomy of control, which is a touchstone of modern therapeutic practices like REBT and CBT.
I think it’s up to each individual to decide how and how much of their power they share and who they do and do not share to with. The idea of sharing and serving one another is also inspired by Stoic philosophy (and many other ancient spiritual and philosophical traditions) which encourage interconnectedness, justice, empathy, and service.
As you indicated, seeing, stepping into, staying in, and sharing personal power is an expansive topic. My intention is merely to open loops and encourage consideration.
It’s interesting that you bring this up—those who attend creative workshops, like Akimbo, often experience a resurfacing of emotions, while freelancers sometimes think they already know it all. I’m just at the start of my freelance journey, but I can’t help but wonder what might unfold when I eventually enroll in Seth’s Creative Workshop.
Clinical counseling and psychotherapy often get confused, but they serve different purposes. Clinical counseling typically focuses on short-term, solution-oriented approaches. Counselors help clients deal with specific life issues, such as managing stress, navigating relationships, or making career decisions. It's practical and often centered around current problems.
Psychotherapy, on the other hand, dives deeper. It’s more about understanding long-standing emotional or psychological patterns that may have roots in the past. Psychotherapists work with clients over a longer period, helping them explore their inner world, uncover deeper issues, and work through emotional pain at a more profound level.
There are various forms of therapy within these two broad categories, each with its own approach:
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and emotions rather than trying to fight them, while committing to values-driven actions.
EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), also known as tapping, combines cognitive therapy with physical touch to help release emotional blockages.
DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) is particularly effective for those struggling with emotional regulation, focusing on mindfulness, distress tolerance, and building healthier relationships.
ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) is not a therapy but an approach to understanding how childhood trauma impacts adult mental and physical health, guiding therapeutic intervention.
Despite the variety of techniques available, none of them will lead to lasting change unless the individual is truly committed to the process of transformation. An aware therapist understands this—they don’t play the role of a savior. Instead, they simply hold up a mirror, guiding you to see yourself clearly and helping you navigate your own path toward healing. The real work, however, always rests with the individual.
Malcolm Gladwell suggests it takes around 80 hours to achieve mastery, and Robert Greene backs this up in his book Mastery. Both emphasize the importance of dedicating time and effort to truly excel at a skill.
We're often wired to take the easy way out—asking questions instead of taking a moment to read through directions in an email. It's like when I'm working as a barista and I pull out the sticker with a customer's name and drink order. So many times, customers don’t bother reading it because it's quicker to ask. This can sometimes lead to mix-ups, where they grab the wrong drink, and we end up having to remake it.
I read very few short articles that have as much depth as this one. I am definitely going to save it and re-read it every week until it sticks to my bones. It reminds me of two quotes that have been influential in shaping who I am. The first is a quote attributed to Mark Twain and says, "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why." The second comes from a book, "The Call," written by Os Guinness, where he wrote, "The main way to discover calling is along the line of what we are each created and gifted to be. Instead of 'You are what you do,' calling says: 'Do what you are.'" I have become convicted throughout the years that identity is at the core of success--we achieve when we stand firmly in who we are. Thanks for the great info!
I appreciate the kind words and these profoundly thoughtful reflections, Angel.
The Mark Twain quote is compelling, but the idea of being what you are over what you do is an especially provocative bit of noodle candy. Thanks for sharing these insights!
I am going to read this at least every week so it can go even more deeply into this evolving being. As I age I see and feel things with a broader perspective but am also discovering the inner child inside that has hidden parts of herself through the challenges of growth. Inside, outside, and all around I go!
I am really touched by these words, Jayn. I also wholeheartedly agree that the real source of who we’re meant to become is in returning to being more of what we’ve always been. We are born sufficient, whole, and in possession of everything we need to step into our limitless potential. The key is unlearning the conditioning and programming we’ve been school for and occupied by as "grown ups" and relearn the virtues of awe, wonder, curiosity, and playfulness of childhood!
There is so much depth to this article. We need to look at how outside influences impact the steps we take along our path. We need to slow down and find who we are as we tentatively step forward toward goals and then reassess. This is what I am working on!
Thank you, Brie. Good to check in with ourselves frequently and ask, "Who am I now?" and "Who do I wish to become?" We are all evolving works in progress!
I just finished listening to episode 2, where Kato mentioned that powerful quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson: “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines.” It brought to mind wisdom from different sources. The Shaman Don Miguel Ruiz taught the Four Agreements: be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best. Dr. Wayne Dyer emphasized staying immune to both praise and criticism. And then there's Einstein’s insight, “You can’t solve a problem with the same consciousness that created it,” which truly resonated with Kato’s message.
Could you clarify what you mean by "sharing our own power"? As I’m listening to the second episode, I find myself asking questions and reflecting as new insights come up. How do you define personal power? It’s a term that’s become pretty popular in personal development circles, but I’m curious about your perspective.
A generous question, Bonnie. Thank you. For me, personal power is tied to personal agency. Owning what is ours to own (our perceptions and actions) and not attaching our happiness or identity to what is not ours to own (almost everything else). My position is inspired by Stoic philosophy, especially the idea of the dichotomy of control, which is a touchstone of modern therapeutic practices like REBT and CBT.
I think it’s up to each individual to decide how and how much of their power they share and who they do and do not share to with. The idea of sharing and serving one another is also inspired by Stoic philosophy (and many other ancient spiritual and philosophical traditions) which encourage interconnectedness, justice, empathy, and service.
As you indicated, seeing, stepping into, staying in, and sharing personal power is an expansive topic. My intention is merely to open loops and encourage consideration.
It’s interesting that you bring this up—those who attend creative workshops, like Akimbo, often experience a resurfacing of emotions, while freelancers sometimes think they already know it all. I’m just at the start of my freelance journey, but I can’t help but wonder what might unfold when I eventually enroll in Seth’s Creative Workshop.
Appreciate the reflection and you taking the time to tune in, Bonnie. Both workshops are excellent (and revealing), for sure.
Clinical counseling and psychotherapy often get confused, but they serve different purposes. Clinical counseling typically focuses on short-term, solution-oriented approaches. Counselors help clients deal with specific life issues, such as managing stress, navigating relationships, or making career decisions. It's practical and often centered around current problems.
Psychotherapy, on the other hand, dives deeper. It’s more about understanding long-standing emotional or psychological patterns that may have roots in the past. Psychotherapists work with clients over a longer period, helping them explore their inner world, uncover deeper issues, and work through emotional pain at a more profound level.
There are various forms of therapy within these two broad categories, each with its own approach:
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and emotions rather than trying to fight them, while committing to values-driven actions.
EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), also known as tapping, combines cognitive therapy with physical touch to help release emotional blockages.
DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) is particularly effective for those struggling with emotional regulation, focusing on mindfulness, distress tolerance, and building healthier relationships.
ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) is not a therapy but an approach to understanding how childhood trauma impacts adult mental and physical health, guiding therapeutic intervention.
Despite the variety of techniques available, none of them will lead to lasting change unless the individual is truly committed to the process of transformation. An aware therapist understands this—they don’t play the role of a savior. Instead, they simply hold up a mirror, guiding you to see yourself clearly and helping you navigate your own path toward healing. The real work, however, always rests with the individual.
Well said, Bonnie, and I appreciate the breakdown of the distinctions and differences amongst techniques. Very illuminating!
Malcolm Gladwell suggests it takes around 80 hours to achieve mastery, and Robert Greene backs this up in his book Mastery. Both emphasize the importance of dedicating time and effort to truly excel at a skill.
Anderson Ericsson did important work here too.
Here’s an article with some additional interesting metrics about the path to mastery that might interest you, Bonnie: https://open.substack.com/pub/ascottperry/p/where-the-path-to-mastery-begins?r=nsqgj
Thanks, Scott. I don't know how I ended up saying 80 hours. I meant to say 10 000 hours.
We're often wired to take the easy way out—asking questions instead of taking a moment to read through directions in an email. It's like when I'm working as a barista and I pull out the sticker with a customer's name and drink order. So many times, customers don’t bother reading it because it's quicker to ask. This can sometimes lead to mix-ups, where they grab the wrong drink, and we end up having to remake it.
I read very few short articles that have as much depth as this one. I am definitely going to save it and re-read it every week until it sticks to my bones. It reminds me of two quotes that have been influential in shaping who I am. The first is a quote attributed to Mark Twain and says, "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why." The second comes from a book, "The Call," written by Os Guinness, where he wrote, "The main way to discover calling is along the line of what we are each created and gifted to be. Instead of 'You are what you do,' calling says: 'Do what you are.'" I have become convicted throughout the years that identity is at the core of success--we achieve when we stand firmly in who we are. Thanks for the great info!
I appreciate the kind words and these profoundly thoughtful reflections, Angel.
The Mark Twain quote is compelling, but the idea of being what you are over what you do is an especially provocative bit of noodle candy. Thanks for sharing these insights!
To find out,
Keep going back to the one pager - the one word doc - the first email.
And going to class!
Strong foundations and first principles matter, for sure, Elizabeth, and returning to them frequently reap increasing dividends.