"Know thyself" - Socrates
If you are reading this, chances are you're on the path of self-discovery. This could be your first step on this path or it could be the millionth step you've taken. Either way, the path you're on is the road less traveled.
People rarely go down the path of self-discovery, but not for the reason most might think.
The story that is often told is that we'll do it tomorrow. It's easier to watch TV, read the paper, or get caught up in work.
It's easier to make excuses of time and money.
But when you really get to the core of it... the reason most people don't dive deep into their own selves... the reason is because they are scared of what they will find.
This isn't typically a conscious thought pattern. The ego hides from us the pain or the fear and presents it as a distraction - often showing up as one of the 5 hindrances (or 6 if you follow Dr. Hardt's work).
So what does one do if they truly desire to go deep?
- Set aside time to be alone with no distractions. You can use this time to meditate if you so choose - it's a great way to learn to quiet the mind (ego).
- Create a list of your desires - what it is that you want and what it is that fills your soul. For many, this is harder than it may sound, but it's a great start I find when working with someone who is on this path. With pleasure comes lightness and with lightness comes flow and with flow comes depth.
- Find someone a few steps ahead on this path and speak with them. There are many roads you can take on this journey: coaching, plant medicine, books, groups, etc. If you can find someone who can help you mirror yourself, then it may be a quicker path to self discovery.
At The Powerful Man, we talk about "One destination, two paths." Although choosing the right path is critical, the most important part of the process is taking the steps.
Whatever you do, don't stop walking on your path. It's your life... enjoy.
"Death lies heavy upon one
who, known exceedingly well by all,
dies unknown to himself." - Seneca