In a world that often glorifies individualism and self-centeredness, it's easy to get caught up in living from a place of Mind-Thoughts-Ego. Our egos, that part of us which seeks validation, control, and dominance, can sometimes cloud our judgment and hinder our ability to connect authentically with ourselves and others. Mind is the thinking that we have the power to change, not pay attention to, where many listen to thoughts randomly and believe thoughts and ego are really happening.  However, there is another way of living – a path toward awareness that can lead to greater fulfillment, harmony, and inner peace.

Ego-centered living is characterized by a constant need for validation, comparison, and self-interest. It's like viewing the world through a narrow lens where everything revolves around "me, myself, and I." This way of living can lead to a myriad of issues, including stress, anxiety, and a sense of disconnection from others and the world around us. Mind is generating thoughts or randomly thinking that just because they thought it, that it is real.  This has happened to me on several occasions with people I know.  I would be blamed for something I never had anything to do with and consequently, the person doing the finger pointing were projecting their thoughts on me with no evidence to prove out their thoughts.  Ego says “because I think it, I must be right.

So, how do we make the shift from ego-centered living to living from a place of awareness? Here are some key steps to embark on this transformative journey:

1. Cultivate Self-Reflection by listening to your thoughts without taking them seriously: Start by taking the time to reflect on your thoughts and out of thoughts the actions and behaviors they produce. Notice when your ego (the need to be right) is in the driver's seat and how it influences your decisions and interactions. Journaling, meditation, or simply sitting in quiet contemplation can help you become more aware of your inner workings.
2. Practice 5 minutes a day emptying your mind and focusing on what is good in your world: Heart centered is the practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment. By cultivating awarenes, you can observe your thoughts and emotions without getting swept away by them. This allows you to respond to situations with greater clarity and compassion, rather than reacting impulsively from a place of ego which needs to be right no matter what.
3. Cultivate Empathy and Compassion: Shift your focus from yourself to others by cultivating empathy and compassion. Take the time to truly listen to others, seek to understand their perspectives, and offer support without expecting anything in return. When we extend kindness and compassion to others, we not only strengthen our connections with them but also cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment and purpose.
4. Let Go of the Need for Control: Ego thrives on control – the need to dictate outcomes and manipulate situations to fit our desires. However, true freedom comes from letting go of this need for control and surrendering to the flow of life. Trust that everything happens for a reason and embrace the uncertainties and imperfections of life with an open heart and mind.
5. Cultivate Gratitude: Shift your focus from what you lack to what you have by just saying thank you.  Could be a green light, sunny day, rainy day….enjoy your precious moment.  Take 5 minutes to appreciate the simple joys and blessings in your life, no matter how small. Gratitude helps to shift your perspective from scarcity to abundance and fosters a sense of connection and contentment.
6. Seek Growth and Learning: Approach life with a growth mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning rather than threats to your ego. Embrace new experiences, step out of your comfort zone, and continuously strive to expand your knowledge and understanding of yourself and the world around you.

Shifting from ego-centered living to living from a place of awareness is done within the first 5 minutes of your day. It is the magic of life that is so simple yet with self-reflection and with the openness and willingness to discover old patterns and beliefs that no longer serve you. AND the rewards of this journey are immeasurable – greater inner peace, authentic connections with others, and a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. So, take the first step today towards a more mindful and aware way of living. And with this 5 minute retreat from your thoughts, you will discover that you are the human and your mind is your computer.  What you say to it, it follows your direction.  Not the direction of others but your own direction.  Be careful what you allow yourself to believe that the mind tells you.  Fear at the core can influence thoughts and actions.  5 minutes...