This Is Your Practice
Philosophy
In a world obsessed with appearances,
it's easy to fall into the trap
of performing for others,
seeking validation and approval.
It’s easy to forget
that your personal practice
is for you only,
not for show.
Your personal practice
is not a performance.
It’s a journey inward,
a sacred space where
true growth happens
in the stillness of your own heart,
away from prying eyes
and the need for applause.
Your practice is about authenticity,
about stripping away the facade
and embracing your raw, unfiltered self.
It’s about being authentic,
honoring your journey,
and embracing your unique path
with humility and grace.
The power of your practice
lies in its sincerity.
It's not about what others think,
but about how it nourishes your soul,
how it helps you evolve,
and how it brings you peace.
Remember, in the end,
what matters most
is not what others see,
but how you feel,
how you grow,
and how you transform
from within.
Application
Identify Your Practice: Write down on a sticky note one personal practice that is meaningful to you (e.g., meditation, journaling, yoga).
Set an Intention: On another sticky note, write an intention for this practice that focuses on your personal growth and well-being, rather than external validation.
Daily Commitment: Each day, use a sticky note to jot down a brief reflection on your practice, focusing on how it made you feel and what you learned.
Weekly Reflection: At the end of the week, review your notes and write a summary of your experiences, emphasizing the internal benefits of your practice.
(Recommended Image: A photo of sticky notes on a desk or wall, with notes labeled "Practice: [specific practice]", "Intention: [personal intention]", daily reflections, and a weekly summary note in the center.)
Inspiration
Baba Raghubar Dassji Maharajji:
‘Your spiritual practice is not a subject of show. It’s your personal thing. The more you keep it secret the more you will progress. If it becomes a subject of show then ego, desire for fame, and power possess the mind and an aspirant loses the path.’
Resources
TED Talk by Brené Brown: To reinforce the importance of authenticity and personal practice, I recommend watching this TED Talk by Brené Brown, "The Power of Vulnerability". Dr. Brown explores how embracing vulnerability and authenticity can lead to true personal growth.
Mindfulness in Plain English by Bhante Henepola Gunaratana: For those interested in deepening their personal practice, this book provides practical guidance on mindfulness and meditation, emphasizing the importance of internal focus.