The universe is energy. Disengage from what’s material. Let go, let be, enjoy.
– Isa Vasya Upanishad
When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
– Beatles
People often approach me, questioning the void in their lives despite having more than they need—wealth, power, everything. At thirty, some possess fortunes larger than countries, yet they grapple with the meaning of their existence. This yearning for a deeper purpose is a call to cultivate our spiritual intelligence, the compass that guides us beyond material success to lasting fulfilment.
Though not widely recognized yet, spiritual coaching is an emerging field that helps individuals achieve holistic well-being by nurturing their cognitive, emotional, sensory, and most importantly, spiritual intelligence. As a spiritual coach, my role is to guide individuals toward spiritual well-being and a purposeful life. True wellness lies in having a purpose, believing in oneself, and embracing love for others. It sounds simple, but it’s far from easy. Greed, fear, and ego often obstruct this path.
Let’s unravel the complexities in this blog together.
Let Go, Let Be, and “What If…?
The Beatles weren’t just rockstars; they were spiritual sages in disguise. ‘Let Go, Let Be’ is a mantra as powerful as AUM. These are the most important competencies of spiritual coaching for holistic wellness.
Spiritual coaching helps us tap into this interconnectedness, fostering self-awareness and mindfreeness.
So, what could be the answer to the gnawing emptiness people feel despite material success? What is the point of it all?
This is where the magic of “What If…?” comes in. Reframing our perspectives through mindful questioning is a powerful tool. Let’s explore some ‘What if’ thoughts that have helped me often, and may perhaps work for you:
What if I Do Not Know Everything?
At one level we are all energy with infinite potential. So is everyone else. So, in what way are we better, superior to another, or know more? Embracing humility and acknowledging our limitations is the first step towards true spiritual growth. As the Isa Vasya Upanishad beautifully states, “See oneself in others and see others in Self.”
Accepting and practising not knowing is a key tenet of spiritual coaching and self-coaching. This allows us to be more present and available to work towards the needs of others. Leadership excellence is the confidence to say ‘I don’t know’ and look for those who know more.
What If Things Could Be Worse?
No matter how challenging our situation feels, others are in worse situations. Consider this: there’s always an upside, even in the toughest times. Even the darkest night is followed by a sunrise.
Life is never even and certain. This doesn’t mean our minds need to become turbulent. Disengagement and equanimity teach us resilience and grit, making us emotionally and spiritually intelligent. We can coach ourselves spiritually to reframe our perceptions and make things better for ourselves and those around us.
What If We Listen and Listen Again
We mostly assume. We assume based on past conditioned experiences. We decide and act judgmentally. We hear but don’t listen. Start listening. Listen not merely with your ears but with all senses and the mind, and learn. Every interaction has something we can learn from if only we listen. Spiritual coaching encourages active listening, using all our senses and the open mind to learn from each interaction. This fosters empathy and generative dialogue, laying the foundation for conscious leadership.
What If You Ask the Universe What it Wants of You and Why?
None of us is an island, as John Dunne said. We are connected, and in a Quantum Science sense, entangled. What impacts us will also impact others. When we think systemically, considering the needs of others alongside our own, we move from selfishness to selflessness, a cornerstone of spiritual intelligence.
Letting go of our egos and seeking alignment with a higher purpose unlocks limitless potential. We expand our horizons beyond our locus of control. We invite other energies to come in. We collaborate, co-create and achieve leadership excellence systemically.
What If We Accept in Gratitude?
Surrender in a material sense is to lose. However, surrendering to what we can’t control isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom. Recognizing the limitations of our own “locus of control” allows us to embrace a higher power and find joy in the present moment. When we accept in gratitude that everyone can win and benefit if we collaborate and not compete, this world will be sustainable for our progeny.
Spiritual Coaching Reflection
As my mother wisely taught me, “Do not ask the universe to give you a trouble-free ride; that will never happen. Pray to that higher power to hold your hand. That will happen.”
Start your 2024 with this belief. You will never lose.
Photo by Benjamin Davies on Unsplash
