I’ve been reflecting lately on the intricate balance between fear and confidence. It’s like walking a tightrope, where fear pulls you down on one side, and confidence pulls you up on the other. Let me share a personal journey that has shaped my understanding of this delicate dance.
The Spotlight That Faded: Do you recall a moment when fear seemed to overpower everything? For me, it was during a class play when I was 12. I had the lead role, and everything went smoothly until an unexpected Polaroid flash disrupted the scene. In that split second, I forgot my lines and the humiliation that followed echoed for years, leading me to swear off acting altogether.
Perfection as a Shield: Fast forward to my attempts at creating YouTube videos. Fear had manifested itself as a fear of making mistakes and being exposed to potential ridicule. Every detail had to be flawless, and pursuing perfection became my shield against humiliation.
Breaking Free: This past February marked a turning point. I realized it was time to break free from the shackles of fear. Reflecting on past failures, I discovered strength in vulnerability. To build confidence, I had to confront my fear head-on. Before each step, I asked myself, “What’s the worst that could happen?” The answer was dramatic — I could die. Yet, this realization underscored the insignificance of my fears in the grand scheme.
The Stumble and Rise: Confidence isn’t a smooth journey; it’s a series of stumbles and falls. Each setback became an opportunity to discover an inner strength that refused to be defined by failure. It’s a reminder that setbacks are not roadblocks but stepping stones in the journey to self-discovery.
What’s Your Fear? Let’s Talk: I invite you to take a moment to reflect on your own fears. What’s holding you back?Start NOW by taking bold action. Schedule a “What’s Next for Me?” call today. Together, we’ll create the roadmap to navigate the tightrope between fear and confidence.
Walking the Tightrope: Building confidence isn’t a linear path. It’s about taking risks, facing fears, and discovering your innate capabilities. When you walk that tightrope between fear and confidence, be real, celebrate small wins, and find victory in having the courage to take those uncertain steps. You won’t be alone.
Your Fear Doesn’t Define You: It’s crucial to remember that your fears do not define you; you are defined by your ability to face them. Embrace the journey, learn from each stumble, and celebrate the triumphs of overcoming fear.
Here’s to walking through fear, celebrating victories, and embracing the incredible journey of self-discovery. Connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook for more reflections on the courage to face uncertainty.
A Lesson from Michael Singer’s “The Untethered Soul”
If you haven’t yet dived into the profound wisdom of Michael Singer’s “The Untethered Soul,” I strongly recommend you get your hands on a copy. Singer’s insights can open doors to personal freedom and inner peace you might not have thought possible. One of the standout chapters in the book is Chapter 9: Removing Your Inner Thorn, which sheds light on the art of welcoming life’s challenges as opportunities for growth.
In Singer’s view, life’s obstacles, often manifested as emotions like anger, fear, and envy, can be seen as “your inner thorns.” Many of us, myself included, tend to hold onto these issues, not letting go of them, without even realizing that we have a choice in the matter. We go to great lengths to protect ourselves from the pain these inner thorns cause, and often, that means suppressing them, denying their existence, or simply ignoring them. It’s akin to playing a never-ending game of “whack-a-mole,” where we smack one problem down only to have another pop up. If this sounds familiar to you, you’re not alone.
However, my perspective on life took a dramatic turn when I got sober in 2000. It was as if a veil had been lifted, and I realized I had choices. Real choices! I could continue protecting my
problems or opt to remove them. I chose the latter, and I let go of them. By releasing these issues’ hold on me, I felt free. My metaphorical chains were cut. This solution is simple in theory but not easy in practice. Each thing I let go of in my life had left claw marks all over my psyche.
Now, let me share a miraculous moment from my life that illustrates the power of letting go.
In 2013, the Friday before Labor Day, I had an MRI of my knee to determine if I had a meniscus tear. The results were supposed to be available in 48 hours, but due to the holiday weekend, I wouldn’t receive the news until the following Tuesday. Having heard nothing from the doctor’s office by Wednesday, I called to inquire about the results. I heard crickets. The same thing happened on Thursday. By Friday, I was thoroughly frustrated and told the receptionist that I wouldn’t hang up until I spoke with someone. Finally, the physician assistant (PA) took the call and was surprised because she had instructed her assistant to contact me to find out where the MRI was performed. She promised to call me back when I informed her of the location. Within twenty minutes, she was on the phone, confirming the presence of a tear and the need for surgery.
With my insurance set to renew on October 1st, I asked if the surgery could be scheduled earlier, considering my end-of-the-month appointment. The PA offered an opening at 9 a.m. the following Monday, although it was at a different location. “Great, I’ll take it,” I replied, and I was starting to release my earlier irritation at the staff’s mishandling of the situation.
Here’s where the magic happened:
I arrived at the new location at 8:50 a.m., ten minutes early, and checked in. As I sat down to wait, I began reading Chapter 9: Removing Your Inner Thorn. Twenty minutes later, the receptionist called me to the desk and asked, “What are you doing here, Debbie? Your appointment isn’t until the end of the month.“ Without any emotional reaction, I explained what I had been told, and her response was, “Oh, we’ll have to squeeze you in somewhere.”
I sat and waited for another thirty-five minutes but felt no frustration or annoyance this time. I observed the situation unfold, and any residual thorns that might have bothered me were nowhere to be found. I didn’t have to remove my inner thorn because I had never allowed it to take root in the first place. That, my friends, is a true miracle!
In the spirit of “The Untethered Soul,” I leave you with this simple yet profound message: The power to let go and find inner peace is within your reach. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.
Are you able to let go and find your inner peace?
If not, take your best next step in finding out how to do it by scheduling your complimentary Discovery Sessionto get your Personal Roadmap to Confidence and Peace of Mind.
The Art of Letting Go: Embracing the Beauty of Mastery
Letting go might seem counterintuitive in a world that constantly encourages us to accumulate, control, and conquer. We are often taught that mastery is gaining, achieving, and holding on to what we have with an iron grip. But what if I told you that the most beautiful form of mastery is, in fact, the art of letting go?
“The most beautiful form of mastery is the art of letting go.”
These words have echoed in my mind for quite some time now, and the profound wisdom they hold has changed the way I perceive success and fulfillment. Let’s delve into the timeless beauty of mastering the art of letting go.
Breaking Free from the Clutches of Control
Many of us spend our lives in pursuit of control. We want control over our careers, relationships, and even our destiny. We meticulously plan, strategize, and micromanage, believing control will lead us to happiness and success.
However, letting go teaches us that true mastery doesn’t come from control; it comes from surrender. It’s about releasing our grip on the outcomes and learning to embrace the uncertainty of life. When we let go of our need to control every aspect, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and opportunities we might have otherwise missed.
What control have you let go of?
Freedom in Minimalism
Minimalism is a lifestyle that embodies the art of letting go. It’s about decluttering our physical and mental spaces, simplifying our lives, and focusing on what truly matters. The freedom that minimalism brings is astonishing. You feel it after you clean out your closet, garage, or basement.
By letting go of material possessions that no longer serve us, we make room for experiences, relationships, and personal growth. We realize that we don’t need to be attached to our possessions and that true wealth lies not in what we own but in what we experience.
What possessions have you purged?
Releasing Emotional Baggage
Emotional baggage can be as burdensome as physical clutter. Holding onto resentments, past traumas, and negative emotions can weigh us down and prevent us from living our lives to the fullest. Learning tolet go of these emotional burdens or psychic weight is a powerful form of mastery.
Forgiveness, both of others and ourselves, is a crucial aspect of this process. When we forgive, we release the grip that the past has on us and make space for healing and personal growth. It’s not about condoning past wrongs; it’s about freeing ourselves from the shackles of anger and resentment.
What resentments have you released?
Embracing Impermanence
Life is inherently impermanent. Everything we hold dear, every experience we cherish, and every moment we savor is fleeting. Instead of mourning the brevity of life, we can embrace it as part of its beauty.
When we let go of the illusion of permanence, we become more present in each moment. We savor the beauty of a sunset, the laughter of a loved one, and the simple joys of life because we understand that these moments are gifts that are precious precisely because they are impermanent.
How do you embrace your fleeting life?
The Journey of Self-Discovery
Perhaps the journey of self-discovery is the most significant form of mastery through letting go. We uncover our true selves by shedding the layers of societal expectations, self-doubt, and the need for external validation.
This journey is not about becoming someone else or achieving some idealized version of ourselves. It’s about accepting and loving who we are in this moment, flaws and all. It’s about letting go of the masks we wear and embracing our authentic selves. It takes courage to walk this path, but the rewards are priceless.
What masks have you taken off?
The art of letting go is not a sign of weakness but a testament to true mastery. It’s about releasing the need to control, simplifying our lives, forgiving, embracing impermanence, and discovering our authentic selves. As we master the art of letting go, we find a profound beauty in the freedom, joy, and fulfillment it brings. So, let go, and in doing so, find the most beautiful form of mastery.
For more information on how you can take the next best steps to master the art of letting go, schedule your 60-minute complimentary Discovery call today!
Imagine you were equipped with all the tools you needed to navigate life’s challenges with flow and ease instead of stress and uncertainty. It can happen; once you know what to do, you only need the willingness to do it. It’s simple but not easy.
I’ve shared about the Judge, the otherSaboteurs, and the Sage Perspective from Positive Intelligence®. I now want to share with you a unique concept that illuminates this path and equips you with five transformative powers the Sage has, and that can become your companions along the way. These powers will enhance your well-being, relationships, and your personal growth.
Benefit 1: The Power of Empathize – Building Deeper Connections
The Power of Empathize teaches you to go beneath the surface and connect deeply with another person’s experience, where understanding and compassion are cultivated. As you empathize, feeling their emotions, conflicts dissolve, and your relationships flourish. This power enriches your interactions, making you a source of comfort and support for those around you.
Benefit 2: The Power of Explore – Fueling Curiosity
Curiosity is a gateway to continuous growth and learning. Through the Power of Explore, you’ll venture into uncharted territories, both within yourself and in the world around you. Embracing this power opens doors to undiscovered talents, passions, and insights. By kindling your curiosity, you’ll ignite a hunger for knowledge and self-discovery that propels you toward your aspirations.
Benefit 3: The Power of Innovate – Transforming Challenges
The Power of Innovate is your secret weapon against adversity. It encourages you to view challenges not as roadblocks but as stepping stones toward personal evolution. This power sparks creativity and fresh perspectives, leading to ingenious solutions that propel you forward. By embracing innovation, you’ll navigate life’s hurdles with resilience, turning setbacks into launchpads for growth.
Benefit 4: The Power of Navigate – Embracing Change
Change is inevitable, and the Power of Navigate equips you with the skills to navigate it gracefully. As you embrace this power, you’ll develop resilience and adaptability, maintaining your balance even in the face of uncertainty. This power ensures that you stay true to your values and aspirations, fostering a sense of purpose that guides your choices.
Benefit 5: The Power of Activate – Turning Dreams into Reality
Have you ever felt stuck in the realm of intentions without action? The Power of Activate empowers you to bridge the gap between dreams and reality. With this power, you’ll overcome procrastination and self-doubt, taking decisive steps toward your goals. Activating your potential brings your aspirations to life, providing you with a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
It all sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? I thought so too, but once I started my personal journey with the Positive Intelligence® Program, the Sage has been a transformative odyssey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through the five powers of Empathize, Explore, Innovate, Navigate, and Activate, I’ve not only enriched my own life but also spread positivity to those around me. The Sage’s wisdom has infused every facet of my journey, reminding me that the answers lie within, waiting to be unveiled and harnessed. As I continue this journey, I am reminded that the Sage is a lifelong companion, guiding me toward a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.
When you adopt these powers, you will also not only enrich your own experiences but also create a positive ripple effect in the lives of those around you. The benefits extend beyond personal growth, influencing your relationships, mindset, and approach to challenges. So, take the first step on this enlightening journey and unlock the potential of the 5 Sage Powers.
To combat the stress and anxiety this fast-paced world emits, we must pause and reflect on how we can nurture our inner selves. I have found a way to navigate life’s challenges with grace and wisdom through the Sage Perspective with the Positive Intelligence® Program. It shows a way of thinking that allows us to perceive the world and ourselves as more enlightened.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the concept of Positive Intelligence®, delve into the attributes of the Sage Perspective, and unlock the Power of its three transformative gifts: Knowledge, Power, and Inspiration.
Understanding Positive Intelligence®
Positive Intelligence® refers to the capacity to maintain a positive and balanced mindset amid life’s ups and downs. It involves cultivating emotional resilience, mindfulness, and self-awareness. With this attribute, we can handle stress better, make sound decisions, and maintain harmonious relationships with others. By tapping into it, we begin the journey of self-discovery and growth, ultimately leading us to the Sage Perspective.
The Sage Perspective
The Sage Perspective represents a shift in how we perceive ourselves, others, and the world. Instead of letting our emotions and beliefs take charge, we begin to have the clarity and wisdom to see things differently. Here are the key aspects of the Sage Perspective:
Detachment from Judgments: The Sage Perspective encourages us to observe our thoughts and judgments without becoming attached to them. By detaching ourselves from these judgments, we gain a clearer understanding of our beliefs, allowing us to make conscious choices based on reality rather than assumptions.
Curiosity and Openness: Adopting the Sage Perspective means approaching life with curiosity and openness. Rather than assuming we know everything, we have a beginner’s mindset, eager to explore new ideas and perspectives. This cultivates empathy, understanding, and a deeper connection with others.
Embracing the Present Moment: The Sage Perspective teaches us to appreciate the present moment and be fully aware of our experiences. Instead of dwelling on the past or creating fantasies that haven’t happened yet, we enjoy the beauty of each moment with gratitude and contentment.
The Three Gifts
Gift 1: Knowledge
Knowledge is the foundation upon which the Sage Perspective is built. It involves a commitment to expanding your awareness through continuous learning. We gain insights into our thoughts, behaviors, and patterns when we go within. This self-awareness enables us to identify areas to work on and empowers us to break free from limiting beliefs. Knowledge is a gift that keeps giving, as the more we learn about ourselves and the world, the more we can positively contribute to others.
Gift 2:Power
The Power that comes with the Sage Perspective is not about control over others or circumstances. It’s the Power to take charge of our emotions and reactions, to respond rather than react. With this inner Power, we become more resilient in facing challenges, and setbacks become opportunities to stretch and grow. This Power also extends to our interactions with others, as we inspire and empower them instead of being affected by negativity.
Gift 3:Inspiration
When we embrace the Sage Perspective, we radiate Inspiration to those around us. Our new way of thinking is a beacon of hope, inspiring others to begin a self-discovery journey for personal growth. Inspiration is contagious, and through our actions, we can create a ripple effect of positivity that extends far beyond our immediate circles.
The Sage Perspective in the Positive Intelligence® Program offers a refreshing approach to life in a materialistic world that often emphasizes success through external achievements. By nurturing the three gifts of Knowledge, Power, and Inspiration, we can change our old way of thinking and behaving that garners genuine fulfillment.
What is stopping you from embracing the Sage Perspective—that will allow you to have the wisdom to share these gifts with the world that will create a more compassionate and resilient society?
