Podcasts > Creating Confidence with Heather Monahan > Confidence Classic: The One TRUTH to Elevate Your Mind, Unlock Your Power, & Heal Your Soul with Jon Gordon 15x Best Selling Author & Thought Leader

Confidence Classic: The One TRUTH to Elevate Your Mind, Unlock Your Power, & Heal Your Soul with Jon Gordon 15x Best Selling Author & Thought Leader

By Heather Monahan

In this episode of Creating Confidence with Heather Monahan, Jon Gordon and Heather Monahan explore the concepts of oneness and separateness and their impact on individuals, relationships, and teams. Gordon discusses how adopting a mindset of oneness and unity fosters positivity, success, and healing, while separateness breeds negativity and dysfunction.

The conversation delves into the spiritual and scientific basis for oneness, with Gordon drawing from ancient stories and modern research. He offers practices like gratitude, meditation, and self-love as pathways to overcome the illusion of separateness and connect with the Divine, ultimately leading to a sense of wholeness and power.

Confidence Classic: The One TRUTH to Elevate Your Mind, Unlock Your Power, & Heal Your Soul with Jon Gordon 15x Best Selling Author & Thought Leader

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Confidence Classic: The One TRUTH to Elevate Your Mind, Unlock Your Power, & Heal Your Soul with Jon Gordon 15x Best Selling Author & Thought Leader

1-Page Summary

Mind States and Separateness vs. Oneness

Jon Gordon and Heather Monahan discuss the impact of high vs. low mind states on how we handle life's challenges. Gordon, echoing Jeff Pfeffer, notes high states enable positivity and unity while low states cause negativity and division. Understanding this duality of mind states is a "game changer" - riding the roller coaster of highs and lows while striving for high states leads to greater success.

Oneness Leads to Power, Healing in Relationships and Teams

Gordon highlights oneness as foundational for power, success, and healing in relationships, teams, and organizations - in contrast to the dysfunction and struggle caused by disconnection and separateness. According to Gordon, connected individuals and unified teams experience love, joy, and a sense of something greater leading to healing and inspiration. He cites the Miami Heat's success stemming from team cohesiveness and unity prioritized over individual egos.

Spiritual and Scientific Basis for Oneness

Gordon explores how spiritual traditions and personal beliefs point to a concept of oneness, which modern science supports. He discusses ancient stories reflecting duality and separation like Adam and Eve, contrasted with the soul's fundamental drive to unite with the Divine. Gordon references research indicating we are interconnected energetic beings, emphasizing practices like gratitude and stillness for experiencing oneness and wholeness.

Overcoming Separateness Through Self-Love and Connection

Gordon confronts the illusion of separateness from God's love, proposing self-love and prayer as pathways back to oneness. He advocates surrendering the ego through gratitude and meditation to connect with the Divine and receive healing. Gordon emphasizes healing personal wounds and shame as crucial for embodying our essential oneness and attaining wholeness.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The concept of high and low mind states may oversimplify the complexity of human emotions and experiences.
  • Success is not solely determined by one's mind state; external factors such as opportunity, resources, and systemic issues also play significant roles.
  • The idea of oneness, while beneficial in many contexts, may not account for the importance of individuality and diversity within teams and relationships.
  • The emphasis on unity could potentially suppress healthy conflict and debate, which are necessary for growth and innovation.
  • The connection between team cohesiveness and success, such as the Miami Heat example, may not be causal and could be influenced by other variables like talent, strategy, and competition.
  • The scientific basis for oneness is not universally accepted; some scientific perspectives may not support the idea of interconnected energetic beings as a literal truth.
  • Practices like gratitude and stillness, while beneficial, may not be universally effective or suitable for everyone's path to experiencing oneness or wholeness.
  • The pathways to overcoming separateness, such as self-love and connection, may not address deeper psychological or societal issues that contribute to feelings of disconnection.
  • The recommendation to surrender the ego might not resonate with all cultural or personal belief systems, which may value the role of the ego differently.
  • The process of healing personal wounds and shame is complex and may require more than the embodiment of oneness, including professional therapy or other forms of support.

Actionables

  • Create a "positivity partnership" with a friend where you both commit to sending each other a daily message highlighting a positive aspect of your day or a positive trait you see in the other person. This practice fosters a sense of unity and shared positivity, reinforcing high mind states and the interconnectedness between you and your friend.
  • Start a personal "oneness journal" where you reflect on moments during the day when you felt connected to others or to a larger purpose. This could be as simple as feeling part of a community while walking in the park or experiencing a moment of teamwork at your job. The act of writing these experiences down can help you become more aware of and cultivate a sense of oneness in your daily life.
  • Develop a "gratitude tree" in your living space by hanging notes of things you're grateful for on an indoor plant or a small tree. Each note can represent an aspect of your life that you feel contributes to your wholeness and interconnectedness with the world. Watching your tree "grow" with gratitude can serve as a visual and interactive reminder of the abundance and connections in your life.

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Confidence Classic: The One TRUTH to Elevate Your Mind, Unlock Your Power, & Heal Your Soul with Jon Gordon 15x Best Selling Author & Thought Leader

Psychology and Neuroscience of Mind States and Oneness/Separateness

Jon Gordon and Heather Monahan discuss the temporal nature of our existence and the impact of our mind states on how we handle life's challenges, emphasizing the importance of high and low states of mind.

Mind States Affect Challenge Handling

High State Enables Positivity; Low State Causes Negativity

Gordon highlights the brain's role in perceiving the world through electrical impulses, suggesting that it functions like an antenna, and humans are energetic beings living in a temporary reality. He echoes Jeff Pfeffer's concept that fear divides and love unites, presenting this duality in terms of positive versus negative frequencies. The polarity of these emotional states affects how individuals deal with challenges.

When someone is in a high state of mind, they are much better equipped to handle challenges with a positive outlook. Gordon gives the example of a parent who can effectively manage a child's tantrum when they are in a high state. Monahan echoes this, recalling how her good mood allowed her to comfort her son through his own challenges. Conversely, if one is in a lower state of mind, marked by stress and overwhelming thoughts, it can lead to negative reactions and a more negative view of oneself, further impacting performance.

Understanding High vs. Low States of Mind Is a "Game Changer"

Riding the Roller Coaster of Ups and Downs For Greater Success

Gordon advises acknowledging the fluctuation between high and low states. He highlights the importance of recognizing one's current state and how it can greatly affect handling situations. In times of low states, where one might want to give up, it's crucial to persevere, as this endurance through the lows will eventually return one to a high state and lead to greater success.

Gordon discusses the challenge of dealing with separate mind states, urging a movement away from the feelings of separateness often associated with low states, such as depression and self-hatre ...

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Psychology and Neuroscience of Mind States and Oneness/Separateness

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Counterarguments

  • The analogy of the brain functioning like an antenna may oversimplify the complex processes of neural activity and cognition.
  • The dichotomy of fear dividing and love uniting, while conceptually appealing, may not capture the nuances of human emotions and their effects on behavior.
  • The idea that positive and negative frequencies impact challenge handling could be criticized for lacking empirical support and for potentially misrepresenting the science of psychology and neuroscience.
  • The concept of high and low states of mind may not account for the full spectrum of human emotions and experiences, which can be more complex and multidimensional.
  • The assertion that being in a high state of mind always helps handle challenges positively may not consider individual differences in coping strategies and resilience.
  • The suggestion that enduring through low states inevitably leads to success may not acknowledge the role of external factors and the possibility of persistent mental health challenges that require professional intervention.
  • The encouragement to move away from feelings of separateness associated with low states might overlook the potential value of introspection and the need for acknowledging and processing negative emotions.
  • The claim that life is a journey of highs and lows, while constant high states are unrealistic, may not consider the experiences of individuals with more stable emotional lives or those wit ...

Actionables

  • You can track your emotional states by keeping a mood diary to better understand your high and low mind states. Start by jotting down your feelings and the circumstances surrounding them several times a day. Over time, you'll begin to see patterns that indicate what triggers your high and low states, which can help you navigate towards more positive frequencies.
  • Create a personal "zone playlist" of music or sounds that induce a focused and positive state of mind. Experiment with different genres and note how each affects your mood and productivity. Use this playlist when facing challenges to help shift into a higher state of mind and maintain a sense of oneness.
  • Practice a daily "unity meditation" where yo ...

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Confidence Classic: The One TRUTH to Elevate Your Mind, Unlock Your Power, & Heal Your Soul with Jon Gordon 15x Best Selling Author & Thought Leader

Applying "one Truth" to Relationships, Teams, Organizations

Jon Gordon highlights the significance of oneness and connection as the foundational elements for power, success, and healing in relationships, teams, and organizations. He contrasts this with the negative impacts of disconnection, division, and separateness, which lead to dysfunction and struggle.

Oneness and Connection in Relationships, Teams, and Organizations Lead To Power, Success, and Healing

Gordon explains that connection and oneness at the individual, psychological, team, and organizational levels, as well as in relationships, give rise to feelings of love, power, joy, and peace. He states that real power is connected to a community and spiritually tied to a greater power or God, which contributes to powerful and effective leadership. When a person feels part of something bigger, they can find healing and act in ways that inspire cooperation and collaboration.

Furthermore, Gordon points out that teams and individuals who move from oneness to separateness switch from positive to negative, resulting in feelings of aloneness and disconnection. He suggests that shared struggles and a mindset that emphasizes the greater whole can lead to healing and improved cooperation. A united and connected team, according to Gordon, will outperform more talented teams lacking unity. He cites the Miami Heat's success as an example, attributing it to their cohesiveness and unity.

In relationships, Gordon mentions research from HeartMath that indicates the hearts of two connected individuals can synchronize, becoming one, signifying powerful connection and oneness. Conversely, a draining or sabotaging relationship cannot contribute to healing but should foster growth and mutual give and take.

Disconnection, Division, and Separateness Create Dysfunction and Struggle

Gordon discusses how narcissistic individuals, who often act alone and prioritize self-preservation, contribute to disconnection and dysfunction within teams and organizations. The separateness they engender leads to negative emotions like jealousy, bitterness, and the predominance of egos, resulting in weak teams.

Separateness is classified as causing weakness and lack of clarity, thereby inciting anxiety and confusion. Heather Monahan describes her own experience working under a narcissistic leader, bringing to light the consequential absence of unity and love. However, Monahan points out that periods of disconnection, highlighted by fights or outbursts, are temporary and can be resolved through transparent dialogue, fostering greater team unity.

Unity Is Essential for High-Performing Teams

Leaders Prioritizing Connection Over Ego Empower Teams

Gordon emphasizes the role of unity in achieving su ...

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Applying "one Truth" to Relationships, Teams, Organizations

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The Miami Heat is a professional basketball team based in Miami, Florida, competing in the NBA. They have been known for their success in the league, winning multiple championships. The team's culture emphasizes unity, teamwork, and collective effort over individual stardom. Players like ...

Counterarguments

  • While oneness and connection can be beneficial, excessive conformity may stifle creativity and individual expression, which are also important in teams and organizations.
  • Real power and effective leadership can also come from individual expertise, critical thinking, and autonomy, not just from community and spiritual connections.
  • A sense of belonging is important, but too much emphasis on group identity can lead to groupthink, where dissenting opinions are suppressed for the sake of harmony.
  • While shared struggles can unite a team, they can also lead to burnout and resentment if not managed properly.
  • Talent and individual skill are still critical components of a team's success and should not be undervalued in favor of unity alone.
  • The synchronization of hearts or any physiological connection in relationships may not necessarily indicate a healthy or functional relationship.
  • Some relationships may require boundaries and a certain degree of separateness to maintain individual well-being.
  • Narcissism is a complex trait, and not all self-focused behavior is detrimental; in some cases, it can drive innovation and ambition.
  • Conflict and disagreement can sometimes lead to better solutions and stronger team ...

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Confidence Classic: The One TRUTH to Elevate Your Mind, Unlock Your Power, & Heal Your Soul with Jon Gordon 15x Best Selling Author & Thought Leader

Spiritual/Biblical Foundations and Scientific Support For Oneness

The hosts discuss how various religious traditions and personal spiritual beliefs point toward a concept of oneness and how this idea is supported by modern scientific perspectives.

Oneness Versus Separateness in Spiritual and Religious Traditions

Jon Gordon introduces the theory that the soul and the spirit are meant to unite with the Divine as a fundamental concept of oneness in spirituality.

Jewish, Christian, and Native American Stories Depict Fundamental Duality

Gordon touches on ancient stories that reflect the theme of separation and duality, such as the Jewish story of Adam and Eve from the Old Testament, which he interprets as depicting separation from God and each other as a result of consuming the forbidden fruit. Similarly, he references the Cherokee story of the two wolves, an ancient Native American tale, symbolizing the ongoing battle between positive and negative forces within each individual. These narratives illustrate underlying themes of duality found in different spiritual and religious traditions.

Research Supports That We Are Interconnected Energetic Beings

Gordon appeals to spiritual experiences and scripture, which indicate nothing can separate individuals from the divine love of God, reinforcing a sense of continual connection.

Spirit and Soul Unite With the Divine; This Oneness Is Vital for Health and Fulfillment

Jon Gordon expresses that oneness is not an abstract notion but a palpable reality that can be experienced through healing and a loving relationship with a higher power. This higher power, he suggests, is fundamentally a God of love as personified by Jesus. Gordon relates his own healing experiences and reflects on the intimate nature of an individual's walk with God. He emphasizes that creating oneness by connecting with the creator is crucial.

Moreover, Gordon points out that practices such as stillness, silence, and gratitude can open individuals up to receiving ideas and blessings, further cultivating a sense of oneness. He posits that healing the soul's wounds to achieve wholeness is akin to unity with God and is essential to healing and ...

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Spiritual/Biblical Foundations and Scientific Support For Oneness

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • Scientific perspectives on oneness are not universally accepted; many scientists argue that spiritual experiences cannot be empirically validated.
  • The interpretation of ancient stories is subjective and can vary widely; not all interpretations may support the theme of oneness.
  • The concept of a soul or spirit uniting with the Divine is not a universally held belief across all religions or among non-religious individuals.
  • The idea that oneness is vital for health and fulfillment may not align with the experiences or beliefs of those who find meaning in individuality or separateness.
  • Practices like stillness, silence, and gratitude, while beneficial for some, may not lead to a sense of oneness for everyone and are not the only methods to achieve personal fulfillment.
  • The notion of healing the soul's wounds to achieve unity with God assumes the existence of a soul and a specific theological fram ...

Actionables

  • Create a daily "oneness journal" where you reflect on moments you felt connected to others or the world around you. This practice encourages mindfulness about the interconnectedness in your daily life. For example, you might write about a conversation that made you feel part of something larger or a walk in nature where you felt at one with the environment.
  • Develop a "Namaste habit" by silently acknowledging the spirit in others you meet throughout the day. This could be as simple as taking a moment to look someone in the eye and think "Namaste" as you pass by on the street, fostering a sense of spiritual connection without the need for words or gestures.
  • Engage in a weekly "oneness walk" where you focus on t ...

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Confidence Classic: The One TRUTH to Elevate Your Mind, Unlock Your Power, & Heal Your Soul with Jon Gordon 15x Best Selling Author & Thought Leader

Cultivating Oneness and Overcoming Separateness: Tools and Strategies

Jon Gordon and Heather Monahan confront the illusion of separateness from God's love, and how self-love and prayer can act as pathways to oneness.

Prayer, Gratitude, and Meditation Connect to Oneness By Dissolving Ego

Gordon acknowledges the ever-present connection individuals have with the love of God but addresses the challenge of feeling separate from it. He sees self-love as a beneficial step towards overcoming feelings of separateness and negativity. Yet, he stresses that a greater, unconditional love is necessary to heal the "hole in the soul," which is a sentiment recognized by even those who do not believe in a deity.

Surrendering For Divine Blessings and Oneness

Surrendering plays a crucial role in achieving a state of oneness for Gordon, particularly when he engages in public speaking. He experiences both highs and lows, with his aim to reach oneness, sharing his philosophy encapsulated in the acronym "TUNA," highlighting trust, unity through love, negating negativity, and uplifting thoughts.

Gordon emphasizes prayer as his practice to connect with divine love, leading to the dissolution of the ego. Through gratitude walks and prayer, he tunes into a higher frequency, embracing oneness which brings about healing in both his mind and soul. He encourages daily prayer and meditation as a tool to promote healing for mental health issues.

Experiencing oneness also involves Gordon being silent and still, which he says allows him to receive divine ideas, such as inspirations for his books. To truly heal, he believes in the necessity of a personal relationship with a God known for love and forgiveness. He emphasizes the importance of receiving that love for authentic healing.

Surrendering is further discussed as a means to allow love to flow freely through an individual. Gordon practices trusting in God’s plan and surrendering to it, which he says leads him to experience oneness and love. Monahan, who struggled with surrendering due to her controlling nature, ultimately found peace when someone suggested reframing surrender into the more accessible concept of giving one's fears to God.

Healing Wounds and Shame to Open to Oneness

Healing Divisions Embodies Our Essential Oneness

Although not directly outlined, the conversation suggests the importance of embracing and overcoming personal shame to experience oneness. Healing from shame, like that resulting from abuse, aids in receiving blessings and connecting w ...

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Cultivating Oneness and Overcoming Separateness: Tools and Strategies

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The concept of oneness and a connection to God's love may not resonate with individuals who are atheists or agnostic, as they may not subscribe to the idea of a divine presence or higher power.
  • The emphasis on self-love as a pathway to oneness might be criticized for potentially leading to self-centeredness or narcissism if not balanced with altruism and concern for others.
  • The idea that unconditional love is necessary to heal the "hole in the soul" could be challenged by those who believe that personal fulfillment and healing can come from various sources, not just spiritual or divine love.
  • The role of surrendering in achieving oneness might be seen as passive or defeatist by some who advocate for taking active control of one's life and circumstances.
  • The reliance on prayer and meditation as tools for healing mental health issues could be questioned by those who emphasize evidence-based psychological treatments and interventions.
  • The notion that being silent and still is required to receive divine ideas may not align with the experiences of individuals who find inspiration through active engagement with the world and their communities.
  • The necessity of a personal relationship with a loving and forgiving God for authentic healing could be contested by those who find healing through other relationships, such as with family, friends, or through self-acceptance.
  • The idea that healing personal shame is important for experiencing oneness might be challenged by those who believe that acceptance and integration of all aspects of oneself, including shame, are part of a healthy psychological state.
  • The connection between healing personal wounds and reconnecting with others could be seen as oversimplified, as interpersonal relationships and societal f ...

Actionables

  • Create a 'love letter to self' journal where you write affirmations and letters of forgiveness and acceptance to yourself. This practice can help you cultivate self-love and address personal shame by acknowledging your worth and releasing negative self-judgments. For example, you might write a letter forgiving yourself for a past mistake, highlighting your strengths and expressing unconditional love for yourself.
  • Develop a 'silent moments' routine by setting aside a specific time each day to sit in silence, away from distractions, to invite stillness and the possibility of receiving divine ideas. This could be as simple as five minutes in the morning before you start your day or during a break at work. The key is consistency and intention, allowing yourself to be open to whatever thoughts or feelings arise during these moments.
  • Start a 'gr ...

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