The Journey – What I wished I knew before I was 21
There are plenty of great books out there to help you find your way. This book is aimed at giving you some of the elements of success in a short direct manner. One criticism is that there is too much for “These Millennials” to understand. I disagree, not just for millennials, but for every generation. Seeing further down the road always helps in preparing for a journey. The fact is that you, as a unique individual, have a path that can lead to greatness. Finding that path is not easy, but it is very worth it. The Journey will challenge you to question everything you learned and use your uniqueness as the criteria for that evaluation. It is, after all, you that has the task of finding that individual inside you. You will make mistakes and we will look at how viewing them will empower you toward growth.
Two-host podcast-style talks on the book divided up into four parts
Scroll down for a talk on the full book.
Summary of Chapters One and Two:
Chapter 1
The worldview most people grow up with is often flawed, shaped by an education system that prioritizes societal needs over individual potential. Basic teachings, such as the importance of grades, job security, and a focus on tangible skills like science and math, emphasize conformity rather than creativity and unique personal growth. Even creative fields, like art, are evaluated by subjective standards, limiting genuine expression. Ultimately, education has conditioned people to think a certain way, often contradicting one’s innate, individual mindset and potential.
Chapter 2
This chapter focuses on the importance of recognizing and nurturing individual uniqueness. Attila argues that much of literature and philosophy emphasizes the central role of the individual, with thinkers like William James asserting that one’s attitude shapes one’s life. Achieving self-fulfillment and contributing uniquely to humanity require embracing and manifesting one’s distinct qualities, a journey that each person must undertake alone. The chapter explores the concept of “individuation” – developing a unique self apart from societal pressures—as essential for a meaningful life. By engaging in continuous self-education and intentional thought, one can prepare for insights and growth beyond traditional education.
Summary of Chapters 3, 4, and 5
Chapter 3
– Non-material gifts (advice, love, compliments) can be given without loss.
– Darwin added “Survival of the fittest” to Origin of Species in 1869.
– Western civilization prioritizes materialism over mysticism.
– Traditional advice of “get good grades, get a job with a company” is outdated.
– Self-employment may be preferable in today’s environment.
– Students should focus on differentiating themselves from peers.
– Carol S. Dweck’s work shows how “limiting beliefs” affect growth mindset.
– Scientific “laws” are actually high- probability approximations.
– Engineers tend to focus on why things can’t be done; architects focus on creative possibilities.
– Left brain people are logical/mathematical; right brain people are artistic.
– Natural Law is defined in dictionaries as inherent principles determining right/wrong.
– The Constitution references “endowed” rights.
– Law of Harvest: success requires work, preparation, and overcoming obstacles.
Chapter 4
– Alvin Toffler quote: “The illiterate of the future will not be the person who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn.”
– Confidence comes from understanding how things work.
– The “Strength Finders” book advocates building natural abilities over fixing weaknesses.
– Leo Tolstoy discusses serving God through using one’s gifts.
– Denis Waitley views failure as a teacher rather than defeat.
– Tim Marks emphasizes knowing why you believe something.
– James Allen (1910) stresses linking thought with purpose.
– Trust builds like a bank account through deposits.
– Steven Pressfield’s “The War of Art” addresses resistance.
– Henry David Thoreau’s Walden (1854) warns against living in “quiet desperation”.
– Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “Self-Reliance” encourages valuing one’s own thoughts.
– Calvin Coolidge emphasizes persistence over talent.
Chapter 5
– Claude Hamilton: “Sacrifice is the creation of something sacred”.
– Claude Hamilton: “Take the hard way now and it will get easier, take the easy way now and it will get harder later”.
– Jeff Olsen’s “The Slight Edge” discusses small actions producing results.
– Two types of procrastination: beneficial (needing time) and harmful (convenience).
– Seth Godin’s blog post discusses personal narratives and reasonableness.
– Two types of fear: valid (life-preserving) and destructive (mental).
– Fear management requires identifying source, reality, impact, and immediate action steps.
Summary of Chapter 6:
– Carl Jung defined individuation process as part of collective unconscious.
– “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, the mind can achieve” – Napoleon Hill (“Think and Grow Rich”).
– “Envy is ignorance; imitation is suicide… insist on yourself; never imitate” – Emerson (“Self-Reliance”).
Brain processing data (according to Dr. Lee Pulos and Vince Poscente):
– Maximum processing: 126 bits/second.
– Conversation requires: 40 bits.
– Sensory input per second:
– Eyes: 10 Million bits.
– Skin: 1 Million bits.
– Ears: 100,000 bits.
– Smell: 100,000 bits.
– Taste: 1,000 bits.
– Conscious mind: 2,000 neurons/second.
– Subconscious mind: 4 billion neurons/second.
Key historical examples:
– Founding Fathers used “providence” in writings, opposed state religion while protecting religious freedom.
– Napoleon Hill studied industrialists for 10 years, found visualization as key success factor.
– John Assaraf (“Answers”) demonstrated visualization success:
– Built RE/MAX region to 75+ offices, 1000 salespeople in Indiana.
– 1999 IPO in San Francisco reached $2.5 Billion valuation.
– Vision board from 1995 manifested exact house purchased in 2000.
Scientific concepts:
– Quantum Theory shows traditional physics fails at macro/micro levels.
– Reticular Activation System (RAS) filters relevant information.
– Spurgeon’s Law: 90% of everything is mediocre.
Chapter 7 (final chapter) Summary:
Reading recommendations:
– First recommended book: “The Slight Edge” by Jeff Olsen.
– Key principles:
– Self-education.
– Changed thinking.
– New habits.
– Action.
– Dream building.
– Persistence.
– Self-talk management.
– Learning from failure.
– Purpose finding.
– “To unlearn and relearn” – Alvin Toffler.
Two-host talk on the full book
Phase 1: Recognizing the Limitations of Formal Education
The text argues that traditional education focuses on societal needs rather than individual potential, limiting personal growth and creativity. It emphasizes the importance of identifying individual uniqueness and pursuing personal fulfillment beyond formal education.
Phase 2: Understanding the Power of Individual Thought and Action
The source highlights the ideas of William James, emphasizing the power of individual thought to shape reality and the importance of action in manifesting desires. It introduces the concept of “individuation” as a self-directed process of realizing one’s unique potential.
Phase 3: Embracing Un-empirical Concepts and Natural Laws
The text explores the significance of un-empirical concepts like love and advice, contrasting them with materialistic values. It introduces the “Law of the Harvest” as a metaphor for the effort required to achieve success and the “Natural Law” as a framework for ethical conduct.
Phase 4: Cultivating Essential Virtues and Overcoming Fear
The source stresses the importance of cultivating virtues like desire, purpose, trust, belief, and gratitude as essential elements for personal growth. It discusses the nature of fear, advocating for confronting and overcoming limiting beliefs and embracing failure as a learning opportunity.
Phase 5: Engaging the Power of Visualization and the Subconscious Mind
The text introduces the concept of visualization as a tool for directing the subconscious mind towards desired outcomes. It highlights the Reticular Activation System (RAS) as a mechanism for focusing attention on relevant information and the power of the subconscious mind in achieving goals.
Phase 6: Taking Responsibility and Embracing the Journey
The source emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and choices, viewing failures as opportunities for growth. It encourages readers to engage in self-education, develop new habits, and persistently pursue excellence and personal fulfillment.
Cast of Characters
1. William James (1842-1910): American philosopher and psychologist.
Key Ideas: The power of individual thought to shape reality, the importance of action in manifesting desires.
2. R.D. Laing (1927-1989): Scottish psychiatrist.
Key Idea: The limitations of perception in shaping our thoughts and actions.
3. Carl Jung (1875-1961): Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst.
Key Idea: The concept of the “Collective Unconscious” and “Individuation.”
4. Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882): American essayist, poet, and philosopher.
Key Idea: The importance of trusting one’s own thoughts and rejecting conformity.
5. James Allen (1864-1912): British author and philosopher.
Key Idea: The power of thought to shape circumstances and the importance of purpose in achieving goals.
6. Isaac Newton (1643-1727): English physicist and mathematician.
Quote: “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants.” (Used to illustrate the limitations of relying solely on past knowledge).
7. Carol S. Dweck: Contemporary American psychologist.
Key Idea: The concept of “Growth Mindset” and the importance of embracing challenges.
8. Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910): Russian novelist and philosopher.
Key Idea: The moral responsibility of utilizing one’s talents for the good of oneself and the world.
9. Denis Waitley (1933-present): American motivational speaker and author.
Key Idea: Embracing failure as a learning opportunity and not a defeat.
10. Tim Marks: Contemporary author.
Key Idea: The importance of understanding the “why” behind one’s beliefs.
11. Steven Pressfield: Contemporary American author.
Key Idea: The concept of “Resistance” as an internal force hindering creative pursuits.
12. Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862): American writer, poet, and philosopher.
Key Idea: Living a purposeful life and avoiding a life of quiet desperation.
13. Calvin Coolidge (1872-1933): 30th President of the United States.
Key Idea: The importance of persistence and determination in achieving success.
14. Seth Godin: Contemporary American author and entrepreneur.
Key Idea: The influence of personal narratives on behavior and the importance of recognizing one’s own biases.
15. Napoleon Hill (1883-1970): American author.
Key Idea: The power of belief and visualization in achieving success.
16. John Assaraf: Contemporary entrepreneur and author.
Personal Experience: Demonstrates the effectiveness of visualization in manifesting personal goals.
17. Jeff Olsen: Contemporary author.
Key Idea: The cumulative effect of small, consistent actions over time (The Slight Edge).
18. Herb Brooks (1937-2003): American ice hockey coach.
Key Idea: Striving for excellence and the importance of going beyond “common” effort.
FAQ: Finding Your Unique Self
1. Why is my current view of the world likely distorted?
From a young age, we are taught to prioritize tangible achievements like good grades and secure jobs. This societal focus often overshadows the importance of individual potential and unique talents. Education systems, while necessary for standardized learning, may not cater to individual growth and creative expression. This discrepancy can lead to a distorted perception of the world and your place within it.
2. Why am I, as an individual, important?
You are important because of your unique qualities. Each individual possesses a unique set of talents, perspectives, and experiences that contribute to the richness and diversity of humanity. Recognizing and expressing your unique self is essential for personal fulfillment and making a meaningful contribution to the world.
3. How does my education impact my ability to find my uniqueness?
While formal education is important, it may not always foster individual creativity and exploration. The emphasis on standardized learning and empirical knowledge can sometimes limit the development of your unique talents and potential. It’s crucial to supplement formal education with self-directed learning and experiences that resonate with your passions and interests.
4. What is the Individuation Process and why is it important?
The Individuation Process is a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It involves uncovering and integrating the various aspects of your personality, including your conscious and unconscious thoughts, feelings, and motivations. Through this process, you can cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself and unlock your unique potential.
5. How can I prepare myself to receive inspiration and pursue my unique path?
Preparing yourself for inspiration involves cultivating a growth mindset, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, nurturing your desires, and building trust in yourself. It also requires developing virtues like gratitude and tenacity, which enable you to appreciate your journey and persevere through challenges.
6. How can I overcome self-doubt and resistance in pursuing my goals?
Self-doubt and resistance are common obstacles on the path to self-discovery. Recognizing and challenging negative self-talk is crucial. Taking action despite fear, learning from failures, and surrounding yourself with supportive individuals can help you overcome these hurdles and move forward with confidence.
7. What is the role of visualization and belief in achieving my dreams?
Visualization involves creating a clear mental picture of your desired outcome, engaging your subconscious mind to work towards its realization. Strong belief in your vision, coupled with persistent action, can activate the Reticular Activating System (RAS) in your brain, attracting opportunities and resources that align with your goals.
8. What is the significance of taking responsibility for my journey?
Taking full responsibility for your actions and decisions is essential for growth and self-empowerment. Blaming others for setbacks hinders your ability to learn from mistakes and make necessary adjustments. Owning your journey, both successes and failures, empowers you to shape your path and reach your full potential.