Jason Gregory's Blog, page 34
October 9, 2018
GO BEYOND EVERYTHING
In this episode of Enlightenment Today I will explore what it means to go beyond everything and essentially going all the way. This is the spiritual ideal of the great Eastern spiritual traditions and sages. But this ultimate goal is something that frightens most people because they are not willing to truly give up their sense of self. People who become interested in spirituality forget this ideal because people often subtly use spirituality to propagate their ego rather than dissolve it. Going beyond everything means you’ve come into resonance with the underlying witness of all life.
The Art of No Debate
In this episode of Enlightenment Today I will explore the Eastern resistance to debating, especially in countries such as Japan. Avoiding debate is another hallmark of Eastern thought that a lot of Westerners find hard to comprehend. In the West we are almost encouraged to debate so we can come to a conclusion on a matter. This way of thinking is incorrectly believed to be universal. Westerners often think that the way they think is the same for everyone else. This is a clumsy way of viewing the world. Both East and West cognitively evolved differently which influenced their social structures, philosophies, religions, language, and basic world view. In the West debate was a natural byproduct of analytical thinking and individualism. While in the East, avoiding debate was a natural byproduct of holistic thinking and collectivism.
Spiritual Materialism
In this episode Enlightenment Today I will explore spiritual materialism. I’m going to explain why people feel the need to show their spirituality on the outside. This means that I’m going to put under the microscope all of our dreadlocks, tattoos, piercings, and other accessories.
September 14, 2018
Footsteps of the Himalayan Yogis Nepal Tour 2019 with Jason Gregory
FOOTSTEPS OF THE HIMALAYAN YOGIS NEPAL TOUR
with Jason Gregory
16-25 NOVEMBER 2019
The Footsteps of the Himalayan Yogis Nepal Tour is one of the most unique travel experiences in the world. You can travel with author, philosopher, and spiritual teacher Jason Gregory on a mystical tour of Nepal to explore and trace the footsteps of the Himalayan yogis. Get unique insights into Jason’s knowledge of the East and the memory of the masters and scared places you will visit. Jason wishes to take people to the most sacred places in the sacred Kathmandu valley to show that the ancient Hindu and Buddhist cultures are thriving. But this can only be experienced by those willing to join him on this pilgrimage of the heart.
1. About the tour of Nepal:
Our 10-day itinerary includes visits to the most breathtakingly beautiful and mystical places of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. We will travel through Nepal to visit the most important sacred places of Nepalese history. Most people never get the chance to experience face to face the archaic origins and sacred sites of Hindu and Buddhist culture. But on this journey you will get a once in a lifetime opportunity to actually feel the ancient living culture that is still thriving in the sacred places you will visit. You will also get the chance to meet real life mystics and mingle with the beautiful people of Nepal.
What is more, during the tour you will take part in private discourses given by Jason Gregory. He will show you the significance of how the great Eastern spiritual traditions can help you live more harmoniously in the modern world. You will begin to understand the deep wisdom the mystics of the East expounded for you to find true happiness and fulfillment in this life. And this is the reason for joining Jason Gregory on his tour of Nepal to follow the Footsteps of the Himalayan Yogis. This is a once in a life-time experience!
Jason Gregory about the Nepal tour:
“I have spent several years in Nepal and the experience has changed the entire course of my life. I continue to go back and visit every year. One of my favorite places in the world is the sacred Kathmandu Valley. The Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the Kathmandu Valley are some of the most powerful and peaceful you will visit in the world. There is something magical about being in the Himalayas that the ancient Hindus and Buddhists understood. The mountains have a mystical presence that have attracted mystics for thousands of years. This is why the Kathmandu Valley is significant, as it is in the heart of the Himalayas. And luckily for all those on tour, we will be in this heart of the Himalayas that the mystics believed to be sacred.
I have always told people that Nepal is hard to explain, the attraction people have to it, and its transformative ability on an individual. It is a place full of color, where the culture is vibrant and the people humble. Kathmandu Valley is a unique blend of past and present. My life in Nepal has not just been transformed by their ancient spiritual traditions, but also from the humble nature of the people and beautiful culture. This spiritual essence you experience in Nepal comes from thousands of years of people focused on the inner realm of spirituality that has led to many great sages and stories of enlightenment in the Himalayas. On this tour, I want to allow people to experience this living spirit that we feel when we are in the culture of Nepal by following the footsteps of the Himalayan Yogis. My experience of living in Nepal for several years allows me to take you on an insider’s journey of Nepal on this tour, where you will come face to face with the Himalayan soul. Plus you’ll also have a lot of fun, fun like you’ve never had before.”
2. ITINERARY
Day 1 – Arrival to Kathmandu (16 November 2019)
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A representative of the tour team will welcome guests at the Tribhuvan International Airport and transport them to the hotel. After the check-in process at the hotel, guests will have time to rest and recuperate while all guests arrive at the hotel.
Day 2 – Boudhanath & Pashupatinath Temple (17 November 2019)
On day 2 we will explore two of the most sacred sites for Buddhists and Hindus in the Kathmandu Valley. In the morning we will visit Boudhanath, one of the largest spherical stupa’s in the world because of its massive mandala. The Boudhanath Stupa is a sacred place of pilgrimage for Buddhists. We will circumambulate the stupa many times in meditation. Later we will enjoy all the wonderful shops and culture that are thriving in Boudhanath.
In the late afternoon we will visit the famous Pashupatinath Temple located along the Bagmati River. This is a very sacred temple for Hindus and considered the most sacred place in Nepal. The temple serves as the seat of Nepal’s national deity, Pashupati, who is an incarnation of the Hindu god Shiva. We will explore the temple complex, visiting the ritual cremation ghats and also the many sadhus along the banks of the Bagmati River. In the early evening we will attend the Pashupatinath Bagmati Aarti, a sacred Hindu ritual performed along the banks of the Bagmati River.
Day 3 – Bhaktapur Durbar Square (18 November 2019)
On day 3 we will travel to the ancient city of Bhaktapur and visit the famous Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Bhaktapur is the largest of three Newar kingdoms, the other two kingdoms are Kathmandu and Patan. All three are the home to a Durbar Square (royal palace), but Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the most impressive. It actually consists of four distinct squares (Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square and Pottery Square). It has Hindu and Buddhist iconography scattered all throughout the complex. We will explore this ancient complex all throughout the day.
Day 4 – Kopan Monastery & Pullahari Monastery (19 November 2019)
In the morning we will travel to the Kopan Monastery. This monastery is a famous place for retreat for Tibetan Buddhists and very popular with the locals. We will explore the monastery grounds, meditate, and attend a Dharma talk in the morning.
After lunch at Kopan Monastery we will walk up to Pullahari Monastery. This monastery is one of the most peaceful places in the Kathmandu Valley. It’s not as well known as Kopan Monastery, which makes it a lot more quiet and conducive for meditation. It is a hidden gem in the Kathmandu Valley.
Day 5 – Swayambunath & Kathmandu Durbar Square (20 November 2019)
Early in the morning on day 5 we will go to the Swayambunath Stupa. This stupa is picturesque as it sits atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley. Swayambunath is second only to Boudhanath for Tibetan Buddhists, though it is Jason’s favorite stupa in the world. On top of this hill gives you a wonderful view of the Kathmandu Valley. We will also circumambulate the foot of the hill which is lined with prayer wheels for meditation. Along our circumambulation we will arrive at the Buddhist trinity statues of Amitabha Buddha, Avalokitesvara (Guanyin), and Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) where we will meditate.
In the afternoon we will visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square (royal palace). Kathmandu Durbar Square has some of the most unique architecture in the world. As with Bhaktapur Durbar Square, it has Hindu and Buddhist iconography scattered all throughout the complex.
Day 6 – Kailashnath Mahadev and Travel to Dhulikhel (21 November 2019)
Dhulikhel is one of the most picturesque areas located in the Kathmandu Valley. It is high up on the Eastern rim of Kathmandu Valley, where for the next two days you will enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Early in the morning on day 6 we will travel to Dhulikhel, where we will stay for two nights. On the way to Dhulikhel we will stop at the Kailashnath Mahadev, the tallest Shiva statue in the world. After this we will continue our journey to Dhulikhel.
Day 7 – Dhulikhel trek to Kali Temple (22 November 2019)
On day 7 we will breathe in the Himalayan mountain air. We will go on a small trek through these glorious mountains to the Kali Temple. The rest of the day we will explore the surrounding area and absorb the culture and mountain views.
Day 8 – Dhulikhel trek to Namo Buddha and Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery (23 November 2019)
On day 8 we will trek to Namo Buddha, a small community home to the Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery. Namo Buddha is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. This is one of the most serene places within the Kathmandu Valley for mediation and contemplation. We will spend the morning there in meditation and enjoy the breathtaking views of the area before we trek back to our hotel to relax.
Day 9 – Travel from Dhulikhel back to Kathmandu (24 November 2019)
In the morning on day 9 we will wake up to the beautiful Himalayas and reflect on our journey. We will enjoy a little peace and quiet before we head back to Kathmandu. After breakfast we will travel to Kathmandu. In the afternoon we will spend a little time exploring Kathmandu while enjoying our last day together.
Day 10 – Depart Kathmandu (25 November 2019)
After an epic and sacred adventure together, it is time to say goodbye to Nepal. After breakfast we will be flying back to our homes.
The order of places that we are going to visit might be modified.
3. Terms & Conditions
* Price per person: $3600 USD (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD) for twin room share. If you are traveling alone, you can share a room with another tour member.
* Early bird single ticket: $3100 (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD) for twin room share. If you are traveling alone, you can share a room with another tour member.
* If you would like to have a single room you have to pay an extra $500 USD (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD). This is valid for both full price and early bird tickets.
* Couple Special: $6500 USD (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD) for 2 people to share double room.
* Couple Early Bird: $6000 (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD) for 2 people to share double room.
* After August 15, 2019 deposit or full payment are nonrefundable. This refund policy is in place because from August 15, 2019 all accommodation and traveling schedule will be booked. There will be no refund after August 15, 2019 as a result.
Price Includes:
* Jason Gregory as your tour host
* 9 nights accommodation at good hotels in Nepal
* Transfers in air-conditioned private transport
* Entrance tickets to all sites
Not Included:
* International flight to Nepal and return flight back to your country
* Visas and insurance. The onus is on the traveler to ensure that passports, visas and other travel documentation are valid and in order.
* Meals during the tour
4. Payment Schedule:
* Only $1000 USD deposit during booking for a single ticket (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD).
* Only $2000 USD deposit during booking for a couple ticket (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD).
* Full payment must be received by 15 August 2019.
* After August 15, 2019 deposit or full payment are nonrefundable. This refund policy is in place because from August 15, 2019 all accommodation and traveling schedule will be booked. There will be no refund after August 15, 2019 as a result.
During booking you should prepare personal details, date of birth, address, phone number, Email address, passport number, Passport Expiration Date (example mm/dd/yyyy). These details you should send to our Email: jasongregory@hotmail.com.au
To purchase tickets hit this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/footsteps-of-the-himalayan-yogis-nepal-tour-2019-with-jason-gregory-tickets-37326035176
We encourage you to book this tour as soon as possible, because the number of places are limited!
Please contact us for more information and for details – jasongregory@hotmail.com.au
Footsteps of the Masters India Tour 2019 with Jason Gregory
FOOTSTEPS OF THE MASTERS INDIA TOUR
with Jason Gregory
1-13 NOVEMBER 2019
The Footsteps of the Masters India Tour is one of the most unique travel experiences in the world. You can travel with author, philosopher, and spiritual teacher Jason Gregory on a mystical tour of India to explore and trace the footsteps of the masters. Get unique insights into Jason’s knowledge of the East and the memory of the masters and scared places you will visit. Jason wishes to take people to the most sacred places of India to show that the ancient Hindu and Buddhist cultures are thriving but can only be experienced by those willing to join him on this pilgrimage of the heart.
1. About our tour to India:
Our 13-day itinerary includes visits to the most breathtakingly beautiful and mystical places in India. We will travel through India to visit the most important sacred places of Indian history. Most people never get the chance to experience face to face the archaic origins and sacred sites of Hindu and Buddhist culture. But on this journey you will get a once in a lifetime opportunity to actually feel the ancient living culture that is still thriving in the sacred places you will visit. You will also get the chance to meet real life mystics and mingle with the beautiful people of India.
What is more, during the tour you will take part in private discourses given by Jason Gregory. He will show you the significance of how the great Eastern spiritual traditions can help you live more harmoniously in the modern world. You will begin to understand the deep wisdom the mystics of the East expounded for you to find true happiness and fulfillment in this life. And this is the reason for joining Jason Gregory on his tour of India to follow the Footsteps of the Masters. This is a once in a life-time experience!
Jason Gregory about the India tour:
“I have spent several years in India and the experience has changed the entire course of my life. I continue to go back and visit every year, especially the Tamil Nadu and Bihar states as they are home the two places in the world I believe everybody should visit, Tiruvannamalai and Bodh Gaya, and we will be visiting both places on this tour.
I have always told people that India is hard to explain, the attraction people have to it, and its transformative ability on an individual. It is a place that most people dislike from a distance because of real life hardships that people witness in India. But I have always implored people to persevere with her grace because if you can get past all the things that push you out of your comfort zone, there is an underlying essence of spirit that is only found in India, but you need to give her time and be open to new experiences. Many believe this comes from thousands of years of people focused on the inner realm of spirituality that has led to many great sages and stories of enlightenment in India. On this tour I want to allow people to experience this living spirit that we feel when we are in the culture of India by following the footsteps of the masters. My experience of living in India for several years allows me to take you on an insider’s journey of India on this tour where you will come face to face with her archaic soul. Plus you’ll also have a lot of fun, fun like you’ve never had before”
2. ITINERARY
Day 1 – Arrival to Chennai (1 November 2019)
Arrival at Chennai International Airport. A representative of the tour team will welcome guests at the Chennai Airport and transport them to the hotel. After the check-in process at the hotel, guests will have time to rest and briefly explore Chennai. Overnight stay at the hotel in Chennai.
Day 2 – Tiruvannamalai (2 November 2019)
Travelling to Tiruvannamalai. Tiruvannmalai is considered one of the most sacred places on Earth. It has the ability to transform one’s life. It is known as the City of Enlightenment for that very reason. It has been the home of sages, sadhus, and yogis for thousands of years. Tiruvannamalai is home to the holy mountain Arunachala, which is thought to be an incarnation of Shiva. Arunachala is what drew the 20th century sage Ramana Maharshi to this little Indian town, where he remained silent for 7 years up on the holy mountain in meditation. During his life on the slopes and at the foot of Arunachala disciples were attracted to his immense presence and an ashram was built around him, the famous Sri Ramana Asramam. It was here that Paul Brunton had his famous encounter with the Maharshi and consequently led to his international bestseller In Search of Secret India. This Hindu culture has never left this place, where you find sadhus descend on Tiruvannamalai every day renouncing the world to be at the foot of Arunachala and to also spend time in meditation at the Arunachaleswarar Temple (Temple of Shiva).
During day 2 we will visit Arunachaleswarar Temple (Temple of Shiva) and explore its magnificent architecture and mythology. We will tour the city of Tiruvannamalai to get acquainted with the City of Enlightenment.
Day 3 – Tiruvannamalai (3 November 2019)
Early in the morning we will go to Sri Ramana Ashram to observe Puja (Hindu ritual worship) and also meditate in the silence of this sacred space. We will then walk up to Skanda Ashram and Virupaksha Cave where Sri Ramana Maharshi spent many years in silence. We will practice meditation in both places. Later in the day we will visit the famous Girivalam Path to visit temples and be in the presence of sadhus.
Day 4 – Tiruvannamalai (4 November 2019)
We will rise early again on day 4 to walk up Arunachala and visit Skanda Ashram one last time to meditate before we embark on our day. During our last day in Tiruvannamalai we will visit the Sri Ramana Ashram library to explore numerous scared books before saying goodbye to our sadhu friends at Girivalam Path.
Day 5 – Pondicherry (5 November 2019)
Pondicherry is an old French state of India. It is a beautiful contrast where East meets West. This unique mix of French with Indian thought has led to one of the most culturally diverse states in India, which is visible through its architecture and the unification of European ecology with Indian spirituality. This state was home to the 20th century sage Sri Aurobindo. Ponicherry is where he met Mirra Alfassa (also known as the Mother), a French woman who was significant in helping Aurobindo’s vision of the unification of a spirituality in harmony with the planet. This vision of the Mother and Aurobindo manifested as the first universal city known as Auroville just outside Pondicherry. This is where the principles they envisioned for humanity can be recognized. Auroville was founded by the Mother in 1968.
When we arrive on our first day in Pondicherry, we will visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and share a meditation together beside the tomb of Sri Aurobindo. After that we will explore the French district of Pondicherry.
Day 6 – Auroville (6 November 2019)
On day 2 in Pondicherry we will rise early and make our way to the universal city Auroville. We will visit the farms and taste the local organic food in Auroville. After that we will visit the Auroville community centre to learn more about the principles and practices that Sri Aurobindo and the Mother had envisioned for humanity. At the end of the day we will visit the Matrimandir, a golden metallic sphere in the center of Auroville which symbolizes the birth of a new consciousness.
Day 7 – Mahabalipurum (7 November 2019)
Mahabalipuram (also known as Mamallapuram) is an ancient historic town and was a bustling seaport at the time of Periplus (1st century CE) and Ptolemy (140 CE). Mahabalipuram is one of the most archeologically significant places in India. It is the home of ancient Dravidian architecture, where Buddhist elements of design are also prominent. In the ancient architecture and art of these sites we see depicted the holy trinity of Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma along with epic stories that emulate the Bhagavad Gita. The group of monuments at Mahabalipuram has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
On our first day we will visit the ancient group of monuments at Mahabalipuram where we will discuss the significance of this ancient Indian art. After that we will spend time at the beautiful Mahabalipuram beach and also explore this beautiful seaside town.
Day 8 – Mahabalipurum (8 November 2019)
In the morning of our second day in Mahabalipuram will visit the famous Shore Temple. The rest of the day will be for relaxing before a big journey to Bodh Gaya the next day.
Day 9 – Travel from Mahabalipuram to Bodh Gaya (November 9 2019)
This will be a long day of travel. We will leave our hotel in Mahabalipuram in the morning en route to Chennai Airport. We will fly from Chennai to Bodh Gaya.
Day 10 – Bodh Gaya (10 November 2019)
Bodh Gaya is considered one of the most sacred places on the planet. It is famously known as the place where the Buddha reached enlightenment under what became known as the Bodhi Tree. Over millennia temples and monasteries have been built around the famous Bodhi Tree. The Mahabodhi Temple and Bodhi Tree reside on the same site and is one of the most powerful places you could visit. It is a holy place for Buddhists, Hindus, and people who are not affiliated with no religion but class themselves as spiritual.
On our first day in Bodh Gaya we will rise very early and meditate under the Bodhi Tree and spend a lot of time in the complex of the Mahabodhi Temple.
Day 11 – Bodh Gaya (11 November 2019)
On the second day we will again meditate under the Bodhi Tree early in the morning before breakfast. After that we will visit numerous nationalities monasteries that have been built over the millennia in Bodh Gaya.
Day 12 – Bodh Gaya (12 November 2019)
On day 3 we will say goodbye to Bodh Gaya and make our journey to our final destination of Delhi.
Day 13 – Depart Delhi (13 November 2019)
It is time to say goodbye to India. After breakfast we will be flying back to our homes.
The order of places that we are going to visit might be modified.
3. Terms & Conditions
* Price per person: $3700 USD (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD) for twin room share. If you are traveling alone, you can share a room with another tour member.
* Early bird single ticket: $3200 (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD) for twin room share. If you are traveling alone, you can share a room with another tour member.
* If you would like to have a single room you have to pay an extra $500 USD (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD). This is valid for both full price and early bird tickets.
* Couple Special: $6700 USD (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD) for 2 people to share double room.
* Couple Early Bird: $6200 (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD) for 2 people to share double room.
* After August 15, 2019 deposit or full payment are nonrefundable. This refund policy is in place because from August 15, 2019 all accommodation and traveling schedule will be booked. There will be no refund after August 15, 2019 as a result.
Price Includes:
* Jason Gregory as your tour host
* 12 nights accommodation at good hotels in India
* Chennai to Bodh Gaya one-way domestic flight
* Bodh Gaya to Delhi one-way domestic flight
* Transfers in air-conditioned private transport
* Entrance tickets to all sites
Not Included:
* International flight to India and return flight back to your country
* Visas and insurance. The onus is on the traveler to ensure that passports, visas and other travel documentation are valid and in order.
* Meals during the tour
4. Payment Schedule:
* Only $1000 USD deposit during booking for a single ticket (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD).
* Only $2000 USD deposit during booking for a couple ticket (or equivalent in GBP/EUR/AUD).
* Full payment must be received by 15 August 2019.
* After August 15, 2019 deposit or full payment are nonrefundable. This refund policy is in place because from August 15, 2019 all accommodation and traveling schedule will be booked. There will be no refund after August 15, 2019 as a result.
During booking you should prepare personal details, date of birth, address, phone number, Email address, passport number, Passport Expiration Date (example mm/dd/yyyy). These details you should send to our Email: jasongregory@hotmail.com.au
To purchase tickets hit this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/footsteps-of-the-masters-india-tour-2019-with-jason-gregory-tickets-27567304550
We encourage you to book this tour as soon as possible, because the number of places is limited!
Please contact us for more information and for details – jasongregory@hotmail.com.au
September 4, 2018
Ramana Maharshi
In this episode of Enlightenment Today I will explore the life and teachings of the great 20th century sage Ramana Maharshi. His life was dedicated to the ancient spiritual tradition of Advaita Vedanta (nondualism) after his enlightenment at the young age of sixteen. Ramana Maharshi belongs in the honorable company of the Buddha, Lao-tzu, Chuang-tzu, Shankara, Patanjali, Bodhidharma, and Mahavira. His timeless teachings are imperative to understand in our busy and chaotic modern world.
Recommended Reading
Be as You Are http://amzn.to/2z1YML6
Who am I?: The Teachings of Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi https://amzn.to/2oIbR8w
The Collected Works of Ramana Maharshi https://amzn.to/2Q6nxPd
The Spiritual Teaching of Ramana Maharshi https://amzn.to/2oFQzIH
STOP HAVING BABIES AND SAVE THE WORLD
In this episode of Enlightenment Today I explore what overpopulation is doing to the world and why our conscious choice to refrain from having children might be the most noble act of our time. The reason I wanted to address such a contentious topic is because recently we broke the record for Earth Overshoot Day. The new record stands at August 1 for 2018 and it’s not a record we should be proud of. If people aren’t going to stop their thirst for material objects then not having children is the only responsible choice.
Recommended Reading
You Are Worthy
In this episode of Enlightenment Today I explore why we feel the need to be worthy and why it is wrong to feel worthless. Trying to feel worthy is common among all cultures and societies. We are all trying to prove our worth to others. We want to be accepted by others. We’ll do anything to feel as though we are needed by the world. We’ll continually chase our tail to try and be successful in the eyes of others. We’re essentially putting on an act for the world to try and establish our worth. But why do we feel the need to be someone else to please the world? Why are you not fine just the way you naturally are? The bigger question, is it normal to feel unworthy? So, basically what I’m going to address is why we feel the need to be worthy and is that attitude is even sane.
Learn to Say NO and Get to Work
In this episode Enlightenment Today I explore how to be more effective and productive in life when it comes to creating work that matters. Learn to say NO and get to work. Learning to say no and just getting to work are both two simple principles for creating meaningful content.
Recommended Reading
Learn to Say NO and Get to Work blog post
June 4, 2018
Learn to Say NO and Get to Work
I received an email from a budding writer. She asked, “How can I get so much done in so little time?” My answer was simple: Learn to say NO and get to work. Both are the two simple principles for creating meaningful content. Procrastination kills all artistic endeavors. The only way to slay that dragon is to get to work and guard your time because its the most precious resource we have. I’m anxious when I procrastinate, so I just get to work and see what comes to me naturally. I try not to overthink about what I want to create nor do I have illusions of grandeur. I just have a trust in the process of writing itself.
I’ve learned that if you want to write, just sit down and shut up. Let the pen do the talking. Stop thinking about what you are going to do and just do it. Embrace the grind. Its better than doing nothing and telling people about what you are going to do. I’ve had many friends tell me their intentions and then they don’t back it up with actions. Nothing annoys me more than that, especially when they complain that their creative life is going nowhere. Your intention and action have to unite. This is why I don’t tell anyone what I’m writing about until I have finished. I’m currently writing my seventh book with my sixth book is in the bag. You’ll find out about both of these books when they are ready to be published.
But all my work and my future projects (which I can’t tell you about yet because there is no actions to back them up) are built on learning to say NO. You can’t fulfill your creative juices if you are constantly meeting friends and family, playing with your phone, watching TV, surfing the Internet, or saying yes to every opportunity that goes your way. You need to say NO! Make it loud and clear so everyone gets the message. As a content creator, or an artist in general, large chunks of undistracted time is what you need. If you don’t cultivate this sort of creative isolation then you’ll create nothing meaningful. Think of all the great artists you have been inspired by, this is how they did it.
It sounds nice to think that artists sit around coffee shops waxing lyrical about deep topics, but we don’t live in a fantasy world. It doesn’t mean an artist doesn’t love their friends and family, it just means they know what it takes to create meaningful art. Saying NO will give you the time to express your deepest nature, but you can’t sit around dreaming about it, you gotta get to work. We can all inspire the world with our own art by following these two simple principles. Do you have what it takes? Don’t be afraid to share your art and heart with the world.
