How to Silence the Relentless Cacophony of Voices 📣

Have you ever noticed a cacophony of voices inside your head? Criticizing, doubting, and often holding you back from your true potential?

If your answer is yes, you're not alone. And while these internal dialogues can feel relentless, they also hold a key to profound self-discovery and freedom.

Inspired by the wisdom of 7th Century Zen master Seng-tsan, and shared by Tara Brach, I've been contemplating the idea that freedom is being "without anxiety about imperfection."

Consider that for a moment: Freedom is “without anxiety about imperfection.”

The voices that run rampant usually stake their energy on their perception of your imperfection, driven by a sometimes quiet-- other times megaphone📣-in-your-ear- fear of inadequacy or unworthiness.

Freedom from that anxiety of imperfection is not about silencing our inner critics, but rather learning to coexist with, and even at times leveraging them in a way that diminishes their control over us.

Designing a new Dynamic 🖊

Imagine for a moment the possibility of a new relationship with these voices where you listen to them with understanding and gentle curiosity rather than resistance. 

To be honest, for me at times, it has felt like I am drowning in their outpour.

For some - or rather many - of us, the tendency can be to numb, distract and disconnect; anything to guard against hearing the soft hum of these incessant voices. But when we can learn to lean in, to listen in a radical way, with compassion for ourselves and curiosity, we weaken their power and begin to find a form of liberation.

In recent weeks I have been playing with a concept that has been transformative. It's built on everything I've used and taught to date. For the sake of your eyes👀, and time 🕗, I am going to start with the foundations this strategy relies upon, and then I will share more about this process both in Sunday's Calm and Connect AND our next newsletter.

So let's start with the foundations, because without this, you cannot leverage the rest of the strategy. 

Foundation I 🌱

Pausing. While pausing may seem overly simplistic, when we try to ignore, fight or even “shut out,” the voices, they instead turn the faucets on full force, leaking constant contamination into the water of our mind.

The result? In addition to a low hum of suffocation,  we cannot see or perceive clearly. We become more reactive, tense and resistant to external stimuli (people, comments, interactions) because everything reinforces their narrative.

Pausing and simply acknowledging their presence is essential if we want to shut off the valve and start to decontaminate the water.

It also enables us to take a step back and see the voices for what they are: thoughts driven by fear, wanting us to be happy, but wildly off base in how to make that happen, manufacturing misery in the process. 

As we approach our next Calm and Connect event, I highly encourage you to reflect on your own inner dialogue. How do these voices shape your reality?

How might your life change if you viewed them through a lens of compassion and curiosity?

And then start with those pauses.

I am excited to dig in further to Part II of this conversation with you, both later this month - and through rich conversation at our next Calm & Connect!

If you haven't already, sign up below!

Season of Reflection, Joy & Growth 🍁

As December unfolds, the world around us glitters with twinkling lights, echoing laughter, and shared moments of joy. And while the festive spirit is palpable, there's another energy that December carries — one of reflection, transition, and growth.

Earlier this year, we delved deep into understanding the nuances of Imposter Syndrome, discerning judgment from discernment, rumination, and the peaks and valleys of stress. As we round the corner into December, I want to invite you to use the insights from our past exchanges as tools for navigating this special season.

✨A Mindful Pause✨

Remember our chat on rumination? From packed schedules filed with festivities travel plans and year-end deadlines, it's easy to get trapped in a whirlwind of thoughts and what feels like must-do lists. Whenever you catch yourself spiraling or getting caught-up in the mental mayhem, take a mindful pause. Feel the ground beneath your feet, tune into your breath, and reconnect with the present moment.

❄️Judgment vs. Discernment❄️

During this season, as families gather, old patterns can be quick to resurface, sometimes leading to judgments. It's an opportune time to revisit our October exchange: discernment simply views facts without emotional baggage, while judgment divides. Before making a quick judgment, pause, and practice discernment. This will not only enhance your personal well-being but also foster deeper connections with loved ones.

🎁Gift Yourself the Gift of Growth🎁

While this season is about giving to others, it's equally important to gift yourself. No, I'm not talking about that trendy gadget or designer wear. I'm hinting at something far more precious: a deep connection with + truly meeting yourself and your potential, beyond barriers and unconscious limits and way past what you imagine possible

As we close this chapter and prepare for a new year, imagine the power of gifting yourself a spot in the Radical Mindful Leadership Accelerator. It's more than just a program. It's a journey of deep connection, of self-discovery, empowerment, and lasting transformation alongside other amazing leaders.

It's about ensuring that your 2024 aligns more authentically with who you truly are and the you, you are ready to step into.

🌟Laying the Foundation for the Grand Finale🌟

In the spirit of building on our past newsletters, next month we'll be wrapping up the year with a grand finale – focusing on setting intentions and dreams for 2024. But before we jump ahead, savor December. Let's be present in each moment, cherish every connection, and anticipate the magic that lies ahead.

To a mindful, joyous, and December!