We are constantly talking ourselves into and out of everything we want.

Slow down.
Pay attention.
Be present.

In that order…

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We’ve developed “programs” (coping mechanisms) in order to get through life efficiently and effectively.

These programs, when taken together, display the character we’ve become.

Essentially, you’ve practiced a way of being into existence.

Like rehearsing a character, eventually, perfecting that way of being… until you believe that’s who you are.

And much of that works well enough not to be changed…

However, some of those programs are the reason you’re getting what you want, and not liking it.

To “change” that or override the programs that aren’t appropriate for getting you what you’d prefer, you’ll need to become aware of the programs you’re running.

And that requires awareness in the present moment.

A full and present level of awareness in the here and now, this moment, allows you to choose…

• What you want.
• What to think.
• How to feel.
• And what to do.

Being able to respond instead of reacting allows you to choose. If you choose, you’re directing it. Essentially authoring your experience in real-time.

This is required to actively create your own experience (We’ll call this “GodMode: The Program.”).

Well, that and knowing what you actually want, which is a feeling based on what you really value, not some outcome you think you want like the bigger house, more money, tighter bod, etc.

Let’s park that there for now. We’ll explore it soon.

Where was I? Ah, yes—

Responding instead of reacting.

In other words, self-regulation.

Self-Leadership.

Taking responsibility for yourself.

You know, maturity?
Bein a grown-up?

Again with those, dirty fuckin words. But that’s the point… being in charge of yourself enough to indeed affect your experience.

By being present and responding appropriately, you shape your experience intentionally.

At first, it’s a constant practice.

Before long, it will become second nature, and you’ll be creating your experience at will (we’ll call this WorldCrafting).

This is the difference between reacting to circumstances and responding. This slight distinction is like a fork in the road that determines the difference between getting what you’ve always gotten and getting what it is you actually want.

Basically, we’re talking about self-awareness… coupled with intention, and acted upon accordingly. Or, in other words, self-actualization.

Which simply comes down to Directed Attention & Managed Focus.

Self-awareness is how you “play” the Game.