by Dan Smith
Follow these five simple steps and you will find yourself well on your way down the spiritual path.
In the frenzy of a fast-paced world, most of us are on a swift pace trying to accomplish earthly goals like gaining more money. The fact that you are here reading this right now says that this is a special moment where you have taken a step back and realized there is more to life than the next paycheck or trying to outrun death.
Your own unique life experiences as an individual have led you here. You’re here for a reason. Doing spiritual work is a noble calling. Those who last in the area of spiritual studies have a profound inner drive that carries them forward.
I’m going to talk about your “work” a lot here. Even if this is your first exposure to spiritual ideas, you have already begun your work. Anything that helps you continue to grow spiritually or expand your knowledge is your work, including reading this now.
Taking action on these five steps will push you forward to new horizons in your understanding of the universe and what life is really about for you.
Find your passion
I want you to stop reading for a moment and ask yourself, “Why am I interested in this work?”
Ultimately, your answer should have altruistic motivations to help make mankind better.
When finding your true passion, it may be a good idea to sit down and write out a personal mission statement. Perhaps you want to help grieving families. Or discover new scientific methods for spirit communication. As you grow with your work, your passion will most likely change. Your personal mission statement may change as well. This is completely normal.
Once you find (or re-find) your passion, it will drive you toward step two.
Make connections
I have spent my entire career surrounding myself with people who have the answers I am looking for. Let me rephrase that, a little more honestly. I have spent my entire career surrounding myself with people who are smarter than me.
In order to learn and grow, you need to stay humble. You must understand that you don’t have all the answers. Likewise, no one person has all the answers you seek. Spiritual learning is a lifelong process that will bring an ever-changing circle of contacts into your life.
As you continue to move forward with your work, you will be led to meet the right people who share your values. For most people, this will come effortlessly and help to reinforce the fact that you’re on the right path.
You may find yourself as part of a team effort, or you might be a social recluse who stays to yourself while continuing your work. Either way, in the real world or the digital world, reach out to make connections. It will help lead you on an enlightened path of success.
Develop your belief system
No, I’m not talking about religion. I’m talking about your personal views. As the work leads you, your views will change. What are your current views of your passion? These will and should change over time as you evolve into a deeper understanding of the area you’re working in.
Belief and intent are powerful forces. They can be used for good or evil. Don’t let your beliefs turn you into a cynical person. Some things are true whether you believe them or not. After all, you don’t have to believe in gravity for it to hold you to the earth. As your belief system changes, always keep an open mind tempered with a healthy skepticism.
Don’t miss out on cues about where the work is taking you. Which leads us to the next step.
Let the work lead you
Yes, the work will lead you. It shouldn’t be the other way around. You will find it to be an amazing journey that surely is being assisted by those unseen around us.
You can create a blueprint or roadmap of where you want to go. With this type of work, however, you’re not always able to see the means of how to get there.
If you let loose the reigns and trust that you are on the right path, an incredible realm of possibilities will open up before you, some of which you may or may not have control over.
Apply your understanding into your daily life
Why are we ultimately doing this work? To learn something about ourselves and others. To better understand the human condition, and more importantly, to get a glimpse of what happens to us after we step out of this vehicle known as the physical body. As you progress, take time to enjoy the benefits of an enriched life as a result of your work.
When you apply what you have learned, you will be led to new passions that will start the cycle all over again. Continue forward and enjoy the journey. Your work should always be an adventure!