Ergs Expended and Results Expected

Delinking Ergs Expended from Results Expected

We often think that accomplishing something must be a Sisyphean task of tremendous effort.  But do the greatest performers, writers, artists, creators, parents, or friends really do what they do through effort, effort, effort? I think it is more a matter of skill and ability.  Yes, that skill and ability are earned through many hours … Read more

Why Luke Skywalker on Dagobah is So Profound

Luke on Dagobah--The Dark Night of the Soul

When I was a kid, my favorite Star Wars movie was Episode V, The Empire Strikes Back.  I loved the entire Yoda sequence on the planet of Dagobah.  There was one scene, however, that always left me puzzled.  That was the scene when Yoda told Luke to leave his weapons and go into a dark … Read more

Confidence and Faith

Let Confidence and Faith Bloom

There is a subtle interplay between confidence and faith.  If you think about it, to some degree having confidence is having faith–faith in yourself, in life, and in the future. With confidence and faith, you stop having to plan out every scenario, consider every possibility, and think through every contingency.  Each day becomes a flower … Read more

The Dangers of “Effort”

I have noticed in most books about self-improvement that the focus is on waking up early, establishing clear goals, pushing yourself–effort, effort, effort.  However, while these techniques might lead to material success, they may do so at the expense of health, a flourishing life, joy, and inner peace.  There is something missing.  The spiritual perspective.  … Read more