I think we can all agree that the “information” environment surrounding us is a bit overwhelming.  This is especially true since the advent of the Internet and “smart” mobile devices.   Information about the state of the world is literally bombarding us 24/7.  Social media  “friends” and “influencers” who constantly offer persuasive arguments about how we should think and/or feel compound our confusion.  

In the midst of this do you sometimes find yourself to be in a state of inner confusion? Do you ever wonder how you actually feel about everything…about anything?  I’d like to share with you a simple process for sorting through all the “noise” and finding your own unique answers to these questions. It is a process of self-discovery involving you and only you, and it only requires that you spend some consistent quality time with yourself.  Here’s how it works:

• Set aside time where you can be by yourself with no distractions…this includes putting away phones and other devices that will demand your attention
• Make yourself completely comfortable and available for what will be a short meditation period…whatever works for you in this regard
• Now, close your eyes and set your imagination to work on creating a short video of yourself as this confused and overwhelmed person who is bombarded by conflicting voices and does not know what to think. Imagine the “dialog” that might occur with these conflicting opinions. When you use your imagination this way, you are creating your own “inner” observer…or “witness” if you like. As the “witness” you can create a third “voice” that asks for guidance to understand what is true for you.  You can also ask for guidance from trusted sources that you have relied on throughout your lifetime. That guidance is still there…hidden in your memory.  Simply be curious about what your “guides” might say.
• At this point just wait for some answers to “well up” from your deeper consciousness.  The answers are there, if you allow them to surface.  Keeping a journal can be really important too. because sometimes there is a delayed effect of engaging in this inner inquiry.  While you are engaging in your daily activities, you may have a moment of insight or epiphany.  Don’t let these moments go.  Write it down. We often have answers come to us so fleetingly that we forget what we know and who we are.

• Don’t forget.  Be open to the answers that may come at the most inopportune moment

In closing I remember well a phrase that guided me often as I struggled through early adulthood and wondered who I was and where I belonged.  The phrase is the following simple but profound

“All the answers you seek are within yourself”

I believe this more now than ever before, but I just need to “pay attention “and ask the question. This will work for you too.