Podcasts > The School of Greatness > How To CREATE Your Life With Your MINDSET - Shape Your Reality With Your Thoughts & Feelings | Eric Thomas

How To CREATE Your Life With Your MINDSET - Shape Your Reality With Your Thoughts & Feelings | Eric Thomas

By Lewis Howes

In this episode of The School of Greatness, Eric Thomas emphasizes the importance of personal accountability and taking control of one's mindset and actions to create the life they desire. He stresses the need for honest self-reflection, self-forgiveness, and an "inside-out" approach of self-investment and self-reliance to achieve genuine fulfillment.

Thomas encourages listeners to pursue their unique talents and build a life that allows for the full expression of those qualities, rather than chasing material success or societal expectations. The conversation also highlights the value of mentors, supportive communities, and diverse perspectives in fostering personal growth and development.

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How To CREATE Your Life With Your MINDSET - Shape Your Reality With Your Thoughts & Feelings | Eric Thomas

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How To CREATE Your Life With Your MINDSET - Shape Your Reality With Your Thoughts & Feelings | Eric Thomas

1-Page Summary

From Victim to Empowered Mindset

Personal Accountability

Eric Thomas emphasizes the need to take accountability for one's circumstances. He asserts that blaming others is disempowering, stating: "As long as you're playing the blame game...you give it all over to somebody else." Thomas advises acknowledging one's capacity for greatness and deciding whether to embrace it.

Lewis Howes echoes the importance of creating opportunities through self-driven actions rather than waiting passively.

Self-Reflection and Self-Forgiveness

Thomas realized he was the common denominator in his struggles. He stresses the importance of honest self-reflection, self-forgiveness, and self-correction. Thomas advises: "Be your first best friend. Get to know you."

Inside-Out Approach

Thomas advocates an "inside-out" approach of self-investment and self-reliance, stating: "You are your own lottery ticket." He warns against comparing oneself to others, advocating for success that manifests from within.

Finding Purpose Beyond Societal Expectations

Pursuing Deeper Values Over Material Success

Thomas strongly discourages chasing societal markers of success, urging people to discover their unique talents and build a life that allows full expression of those qualities. Careers aligned with one's passions, not possessions, should be pursued.

Non-Linear Journey to Fulfillment

Thomas and Howes discuss how the path to fulfillment may not be linear. Thomas's own journey included homelessness and taking longer to complete his education. He encourages patience and persistence through the self-discovery process.

The Value of Mentors and Community

Seeking Guidance and Accountability

Thomas highlights the transformative impact of spiritual coaching, mentors like CJ who provided career guidance, and Dee Dee who encouraged his education and employment. Experienced mentors offer invaluable wisdom and accountability.

Supportive Growth Environment

Thomas cites the positive influence of being surrounded by others with a growth mindset, who push each other towards excellence. Healthy, collaborative relationships catalyze personal development.

Learning From One Another

Thomas's personalized morning coaching demonstrates how tailored guidance cultivates greatness. Diverse perspectives encountered through deep engagement with others breeds growth, underscoring the importance of a development-oriented community.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While personal accountability is crucial, it's important to recognize that systemic issues can also significantly impact an individual's circumstances, and not all outcomes are within one's control.
  • Self-driven actions are important, but collaboration and support from others can be equally vital in creating opportunities.
  • Self-reflection and self-forgiveness are key, but they must be balanced with external feedback to ensure personal growth is aligned with reality.
  • An inside-out approach to self-investment is valuable, but external factors such as market demand and economic conditions can also play a significant role in one's success.
  • Pursuing passions over possessions is a noble idea, but financial stability and material success can also contribute to security and well-being, which are important for some people's fulfillment.
  • The journey to fulfillment may not be linear, but setting realistic goals and timelines can help in maintaining motivation and measuring progress.
  • Mentors can be transformative, but it's also important to cultivate the ability to think critically and make decisions independently.
  • A growth mindset is beneficial, but it's also necessary to recognize and accept limitations and to understand that excellence can be defined in various ways.
  • Learning from diverse perspectives is important, but it's also crucial to develop a strong sense of self to avoid being swayed by every differing opinion.

Actionables

  • You can start a personal accountability journal where each day you write down one action you took responsibility for and the outcome it led to. This practice encourages you to recognize your role in your successes and failures, fostering a habit of self-accountability without blaming external factors. For example, if you missed a workout, note it down and also jot down how you plan to adjust your schedule to fit it in the next day.
  • Create a "Passion Project Hour" in your weekly schedule dedicated to working on something you love, regardless of its monetary value or social status. This could be anything from painting, writing poetry, to coding a simple game. The key is to choose an activity that resonates with your interests and not what is deemed successful by societal standards. This time block is sacred and non-negotiable, ensuring you're investing in your passions consistently.
  • Form a "Growth Circle" with friends or acquaintances where you meet monthly to discuss new ideas, challenges, and learnings from various fields. Each member could bring a unique topic or perspective to the table, ensuring a diverse range of discussions. This could be done virtually or in person, and the aim is to create a supportive environment that values continuous learning and personal development. For instance, one month you might discuss a book on psychology, the next, someone's experience with a cooking class.

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How To CREATE Your Life With Your MINDSET - Shape Your Reality With Your Thoughts & Feelings | Eric Thomas

Transforming from a victim mindset to a self-empowered mindset

Eric Thomas and Lewis Howes tackle the transformative journey from victimhood to empowerment, highlighting the need for personal accountability and inner strength in effecting change in one's life.

Recognizing that one's circumstances are a reflection of one's own choices and actions, not just external factors

Eric Thomas shares his own realization that his circumstances—such as being homeless—were due to his actions and not solely external factors like his family. "But as long as you're playing the blame game, you have given permission, the license, registration, the keys, you give it all over to somebody else. And the day you take it is the day that you can start deciding which direction you want to go," Thomas asserts. He encourages people to acknowledge their capacity for greatness and decide whether they're willing to cooperate with the greatness inside them.

Lewis Howes speaks about the necessity for individuals to take ownership of their lives instead of waiting for opportunities to be presented to them. He notes the importance of creating opportunities through a clear vision and self-driven actions.

The importance of self-reflection, self-forgiveness, and acknowledging one's role in creating one's current situation

Thomas reflects on how he used to blame others, like his parents, for his circumstances until he realized he was the common denominator in his problems. This acknowledgment was crucial for him to understand that his struggles were a result of his own actions and mindset.

The most difficult thing for Thomas was to look in the mirror, apologize to himself, and start making changes to be a better person. He impresses upon the audience the importance of being honest with oneself and engaging in self-correction and self-forgiveness.

Thomas relates taking rational rather than emotional responses seriously, understanding that emotional reactions often cloud judgment. By apologizing to himself and deciding to turn away from mean and insubordinate behaviors, he began the process of self-improvement. "Be your first best friend. Get to know you. We're so busy wanting to be in a community that we don't realize we are a community," Thomas advises.

Shifting from an "outside-in" mentality to an "inside-out" approach

Thomas emphasizes the shift towards self-reliance by stating, "You are your own lottery ticket," suggesting the need to invest in one's capabilities first. He warns against comparing one's journ ...

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Transforming from a victim mindset to a self-empowered mindset

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Clarifications

  • Shifting from an "outside-in" mentality to an "inside-out" approach means transitioning from seeking external validation or solutions to relying on internal strength and self-awareness for personal growth and success. It involves prioritizing self-reflection, self-improvement, and taking ownership of one's actions and choices to drive positive change from within. This shift emphasizes looking inward for guidance, motivation, and fulfillment rather than depending solely on external circumstances or validation. By adopting an "inside-out" approach, individuals focus on developing their inner resources, beliefs, and mindset to shape their external reality and achieve sustainable personal growth.
  • Investing in oneself as being one's "own lottery ticket" means recognizing and prioritizing your own potential and abilities as the key to success. It emphasizes the importance of self-development, self-improvement, and self-reliance in creating opportunities and achieving goals. By viewing oneself as the primary source of success and growth, individuals are encouraged to focus on nurturing their skills, mindset, and personal strengths to unlock their full potential. This mindset shift underscores the belief that one's greatest asset lies within themselves, empowering them to take control of their destiny and shape their own future.
  • Controlling emotions and responses through meditation and self-work involves using techniques like mindfulness and self-reflection to manage one's reactions and behaviors. Meditation helps in cultivating awareness and emotional regulation, while self-work involves introspection and personal development efforts to enhance emotional intelligence and self-control. By practicing these methods, individuals can better understand their emotions, choose how to respond to situations, and foster a sense of inner peace and resilience. This process empowers individuals to navigate challenges wit ...

Counterarguments

  • While personal accountability is important, it's also necessary to recognize that systemic issues and external factors can significantly impact an individual's ability to make choices and take action.
  • Circumstances may not always be a direct reflection of personal choices; sometimes, people are affected by events beyond their control, such as natural disasters, economic downturns, or the actions of others.
  • The concept of creating opportunities can be overly simplistic in situations where individuals face significant barriers due to socioeconomic status, discrimination, or lack of access to resources.
  • Self-reflection and self-forgiveness are valuable, but they must be balanced with external support and resources for individuals who are dealing with trauma or mental health issues that make self-analysis and self-improvement more challenging.
  • The "inside-out" approach may not account for the importance of community support, social networks, and collaborative success, which can be just as important as individual self-reliance.
  • The idea of avoiding comparisons with others can be unrealistic in a society that often measures success t ...

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How To CREATE Your Life With Your MINDSET - Shape Your Reality With Your Thoughts & Feelings | Eric Thomas

The role of finding one's true purpose and passion, beyond societal expectations

Eric Thomas emphasizes the necessity of aligning one's everyday actions with a North Star or purpose, especially when that purpose involves supporting others in their ambitions.

Avoiding the trap of simply chasing societal markers of success, such as careers or wealth, and instead pursuing work and activities that align with one's deeper values and interests

Discovering one's unique talents and strengths, and designing a life that allows for the full expression of those qualities

Thomas strongly advises against following someone else's path to happiness and underscores the significance of discovering what one was meant to do on Earth, encouraging his audience to take every chance to do it. He urges people also to balance hard work with enjoyment. An example of this balance is his advice to his son to spend time on both designing, which he is passionate about, and traveling to enjoy life. This suggests that there should be a balance between work and play.

Moreover, Thomas posits that rather than pursuing material possessions, more time should be spent on self-awareness and tapping into one's skills, challenges, and identifying industries that suit one's talents. He urges individuals to consider what life would be like if lived on their own terms, rather than following societal expectations of success.

Children adept in video games represent an example Thomas uses to illustrate that by creating careers in non-traditional fields, people can employ their talents in ways that align with their passions. Similarly, Thomas himself uses his personal growth story of moving beyond homelessness and the absence of his father, acknowledging his present realization of an authentic life driven by his unique strengths as an illustration of living one's dream life outside societal norms.

Thomas also encourages people to ponder what they would pursue if not for the expectations of their family name, or societal definitions of success.

Embracing the reality that the path to fulfillment may not be linear or follow a traditional timeline, and that patience and persistence are key to achieving one's goals

Acknowledging that the journey of self-discovery and personal growth can take time, and that embracing this process is essential for lasting success

Lewis Howes and Eric Thomas discuss the non-linear journey Thomas endured, which included homelessness and an extended period to complete his higher ...

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The role of finding one's true purpose and passion, beyond societal expectations

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Counterarguments

  • While pursuing one's passion is ideal, it may not always be feasible due to financial constraints or life circumstances, and some individuals may need to prioritize job security and stability over passion.
  • Societal markers of success can sometimes provide a structured path to follow, which can be helpful for individuals who thrive under clear guidelines or who are unsure of their passions.
  • The concept of a unique talent or purpose can be pressuring for some individuals who may feel they haven't discovered theirs or don't believe they have one.
  • Not everyone may agree with the idea that everyone has a specific purpose or that there is one thing they were meant to do on Earth, as some believe in a more flexible and dynamic approach to life's goals.
  • The balance between hard work and enjoyment is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person; what constitutes balance for one may not for another.
  • The advice to live life on one's own terms can be challenging to implement for those who have significant responsibilities or dependents.
  • The idea of spending more time on self-awareness assumes that individuals have the luxury of time and resources to do so, which may not be the case for everyone.
  • The suggestion to pursue careers in non-traditional fields like video gaming may not be practical or sustainable for all individuals, as these fields can be highly competitive and not offer long-term security.
  • The non-linear path to fulfillme ...

Actionables

  • You can create a personal alignment chart to visually map out your values and interests. Start by drawing a large circle on a piece of paper and divide it into sections that represent different areas of your life, such as career, hobbies, relationships, and personal growth. In each section, write down what you value most and how you currently spend your time in these areas. This visual representation can help you see where your actions may not align with your values and guide you to make adjustments.
  • Develop a 'Talent Bank' by listing all the skills and talents you possess or wish to develop. Use a notebook or digital app to categorize them into 'Current Assets,' 'Investments,' and 'Future Acquisitions.' Under 'Current Assets,' list the skills you are confident in; 'Investments' are skills you are actively developing, and 'Future Acquisitions' are those you aspire to learn. Regularly review and update your Talent Bank to reflect your growth and to help you make decisions that align with your unique talents.
  • Engage in 'Passion Projects' by dedica ...

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How To CREATE Your Life With Your MINDSET - Shape Your Reality With Your Thoughts & Feelings | Eric Thomas

The value of mentors, coaches, and spiritual guidance in personal growth and success

The transformative journey of personal growth and success is often a collaborative effort, with a substantial role played by mentors, coaches, and spiritual guidance, as explained by Eric Thomas and others.

Recognizing the importance of seeking out experienced and trusted individuals who can provide guidance, wisdom, and accountability

Eric Thomas highlights the critical role of spiritual connection and coaching in his personal development, equating it to being in an environment that nurtures one's habits and relationships. He shares his experience of initially resisting, and then warmly embracing spiritual coaching, which led him to seek guidance regularly, especially when he became a father.

Dee Dee, Eric's girlfriend, is also recognized as his first coach, playing a pivotal role in encouraging him to find employment and continue his education, underscoring the profound impact a mentor can have.

Furthermore, Thomas acknowledges the benefit of having someone like CJ in his life, who pointed out essential steps in his career, such as becoming a New York Times bestseller. This exemplifies the value of having experienced individuals who can provide a fresh perspective.

The transformative impact of being part of a supportive community that challenges and encourages personal growth

Lewis Howes's influence on Thomas and the anecdote about the nomad suitcases demonstrate the importance of being around inspiring and successful individuals for guidance.

Similarly, Thomas discusses LeBron James's commitment to his physical and mental well-being through various kinds of coaches, highlighting that continual investment in personal growth is a characteristic of successful individuals.

The narrative also touches on the idea of ongoing development through mutual relationships. Eric's mentors, including CJ and Dee Dee, have held him accountable and supported him towards achievements, but it was ultimately his desire to succeed that played a crucial role.

Embracing the notion that greatness is often cultivated through c ...

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The value of mentors, coaches, and spiritual guidance in personal growth and success

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While mentors and coaches can be invaluable, self-reliance and intrinsic motivation are also critical components of personal growth; over-reliance on external guidance can sometimes hinder the development of these qualities.
  • The impact of mentors and coaches may vary greatly depending on the individual's personal circumstances, learning style, and the quality of the mentorship or coaching provided.
  • Success and personal growth are subjective and can be achieved through various paths; some individuals may find success without the direct influence of mentors or coaches.
  • The cost of hiring coaches or the time investment in finding mentors can be prohibitive for some, suggesting that these resources are not equally accessible to all individuals.
  • The narrative may underemphasize the role of personal effort and the possibility of success through self-taught skills and knowledge.
  • The idea that greatness is cultivated through collaborative efforts might overlook the contributions and achievements of individuals who have excelled in isolation or without a supportive community.
  • The emphasis on surrounding oneself with successful individuals could inadvertently promote a form of elitism or exclusivity, disregarding the value of diverse social interacti ...

Actionables

  • Create a mentorship matchmaking profile on social media platforms to connect with potential mentors. Use platforms like LinkedIn to detail your goals, interests, and the type of guidance you're seeking. This can attract mentors who resonate with your aspirations and are willing to provide guidance.
  • Start a peer accountability group with friends or colleagues to foster mutual growth. Organize regular meet-ups or virtual check-ins where each person sets goals and reports on their progress. This creates a supportive environment that encourages personal development and accountability.
  • Volunteer ...

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