The Power of Initiation in Middle Age

In this episode, David and Volker welcome Ben, a teacher and coach with over 20 years of experience in Buddhism. They explore Ben's journey into Buddhism, the role of mindfulness in business, and the unfolding of personal transformation. The conversation delves into the importance of finding the right teacher, the impact of meditation on personal and professional life, and the challenges of midlife transitions. In this conversation, Ben and David explore the themes of life's challenges, the significance of initiation, and the process of unlearning as individuals navigate midlife transitions. They discuss how traditional initiation ceremonies have been lost in modern society, leading to a lack of confidence and understanding in men as they face significant life changes. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of creating intentional experiences that allow individuals to reflect, unlearn societal expectations, and discover their true selves. The conversation concludes with thoughts on cyclical thinking and the nature of life and death.

Key takeaways

•Ben has over 20 years of experience in Buddhism.

•He emphasizes the importance of finding a teacher.

•Meditation is often a way to manage stress and anxiety.

•Mindfulness can lead to personal and professional transformation.

•The journey into Buddhism can be gradual and unfolding.

•Ben practices silent meditation retreats annually.

•The relationship between teacher and student is crucial.

•Meditation can be a powerful tool for self-discovery.

•Mindfulness practices can vary and still be effective.

•Ben's journey reflects a blend of business and spirituality. The podcast serves as a boot camp for personal growth.

•Initiation is crucial for transitioning from boyhood to manhood.

•Many men lack the confidence due to missing initiation ceremonies.

•Midlife is a time for unlearning and rediscovering oneself.

•Cyclical thinking can provide a new perspective on life.

•Life challenges often prompt reflection and change.

•Creating intentional experiences can aid in personal development.

•Unlearning societal expectations is essential for self-discovery.

•Comfort with discomfort is necessary for growth.

•The concept of death can be re-evaluated in a cyclical context.

You can find out more here: https://www.tenpercentbetter.co/

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