When we think about peace, it’s often an elusive concept, something different for each of us. For some, peace is the freedom to live in safety, raise a family without fear, and speak without restriction. For others, it’s about financial security, equality, or respect. But one element seems universal: we all desire to live with dignity and respect, recognized for our unique contributions to life.
For a long time, I believed peace was something external, a condition influenced by the world around me. But as I grew older and life delivered its share of challenges, I began to see peace in a new light. It wasn’t something to be granted by others or by society; instead, it was something I had to cultivate from within. It was only by embracing self-control, an inner discipline, that I could find the peace I was searching for.
The Wake-Up Call
It’s strange how life presents us with defining moments. For me, one of those moments came when I was 29. Up until then, I had a definite sense of connection to something greater—call it the Divine, God, or simply a creative force. But I hadn’t fully explored what that meant for my life or my purpose. It wasn’t until I faced some recurring patterns and asked myself, “Why does this keep happening to me?” that my journey truly began.
The answer came unexpectedly. I had always defined my career by what I did, the job I held, and the daily responsibilities I fulfilled. But my inner voice pushed me to redefine it, to see my career not as a profession but as a commitment to live with integrity and self-awareness. Here’s the statement that reshaped my understanding:
Career: Mustering the courage to honor, recognize, accept, and display the truth of who I am every given millisecond through non-judgment, having the willingness to re-organize and re-center.
This wasn’t just a statement about my career; it was a commitment to live as my true self. It was a call to practice self-control by letting go of external expectations and focusing on the essence of who I was meant to be.
Understanding Self-Control
Self-control is a powerful concept. From a young age, we’re shaped by other people’s beliefs, opinions, and prejudices. Society, family, culture, and even religion impart a set of rules that shape how we see ourselves. But this “programming” can often stand in the way of discovering our true selves. Instead of living authentically, we end up acting in ways that conform to others’ expectations, feeling trapped by beliefs that aren’t our own.
To practice self-control, I had to shed these layers of outside influence. I realized that self-control meant going beyond self-restraint or discipline; it was about reclaiming the ability to shape my thoughts, actions, and identity independently of the noise around me. I was responsible for my choices, my responses, and my direction in life.
The Circle of Connection
One of the most beautiful teachings on self-control comes from Native American Lakota wisdom. It describes the sacred circle, a place where there is no one above, below, in front, or behind. In the circle, all are equal, embodying unity and respect. This image spoke to me deeply because it embodies the principle of self-control. When I stand in my own sacred circle, I am not competing or comparing myself to others. I am centered, at peace, and grounded in my own truth.
The Lakota teach that when an individual lacks self-control, their negativity ripples outward, disrupting harmony and creating chaos. But when a person practices self-control and leads with love, truth, and light, those qualities spread outward, enriching everything they touch. It’s a reminder that our inner state impacts more than just ourselves; it has a far-reaching influence on family, community, and even society at large.
Finding Peace Through Creativity
One surprising path to self-control that I discovered is through creativity. For years, I had thought of creativity as something separate from my spiritual practice. But over time, I learned that creativity is a powerful way to connect with my inner self and with the Divine.
When I engage in creative activities—whether it’s writing, painting, or simply expressing myself in new ways—I tap into a deeper part of myself. Creativity silences my overactive mind, making space for intuition and inner wisdom to surface. It’s as if the creative act itself channels the Divine, and in those moments, I feel a profound sense of alignment and clarity.
Here are some truths about creativity that continue to guide me on this journey:
Creativity is the natural order of life. When I create, I’m in sync with the energy of the universe.
Creativity connects me to something greater, a force that infuses all of life.
Engaging in creativity is a way of expressing gratitude, a gift back to the universe for the life I have been given.
Self-control, I’ve come to see, isn’t about suppression; it’s about cultivating an inner environment where my true self can flourish. By embracing my creativity, I honor this process and open myself up to greater self-discovery.
Living with Intention
Living with self-control means setting an intention every day, an intention to live in alignment with my values, to be present, and to stay connected to my spiritual essence. It’s so easy to let external pressures pull us away from this inner connection, but I’ve found that when I make a conscious choice each morning, I carry that energy throughout the day.
Setting an intention helps me focus on what matters. I no longer find myself getting lost in trivialities or drawn into unnecessary conflicts. I am, instead, centered in the knowledge that I have the power to shape my life and my future.
Self-control requires discipline, yes, but it’s a discipline that brings freedom. I am free to be myself, to live authentically, and to embrace the path that feels right for me. It’s not about living in opposition to the world but living in harmony with it by being true to myself.
Embracing Your Unique Journey
Each of us has a journey that’s uniquely our own. No one else can fill the role we were born to play or bring our exact talents and perspectives to the world. As I look within and embrace self-control, I find the courage to walk my path with integrity and purpose. I am no longer swayed by trends, opinions, or the need to conform. I am, instead, grounded in a sense of peace and clarity.
So, I encourage you: take time to look within. Reclaim your self-control and remember that you are a spiritual being on a human journey. Allow creativity, intention, and self-control to guide you, and discover the freedom that comes from living authentically.
Let’s step into the sacred circle, each of us empowered by self-control and unity. Together, we create a better world—not just by existing, but by truly being ourselves, honoring our unique gifts, and letting our inner light shine.
If you found this post helpful, be sure to check out my books, including Looking Within, Conversations with Thoth, and Touching Your Heart, for more insights and inspiration. Whether you're looking for personal growth, creative guidance, or support on your spiritual journey, I’d love to connect with you! Sign up for a free consultation to explore how we can work together. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube for more tips, updates, and resources.
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