“Through silence, through meditation, and through non-judgment, you will access the first law, the Law of Pure Potentiality.”
– Deepak Chopra

As part of our work to reach their potential, leaders often ask me for meditation exercises, which is why I’d like to share this simple self-reflection I practiced with Deepak Chopra at one of his recent talks. I love this exercise for its power to provide us with more space and direction in our lives, and yet, in such a simple and attainable way.

Meditation Directions (source: Deepak Chopra)

Sit in a relaxing position, close your eyes, and bring your attention to your breath. For a few seconds, allow your mind to settle into your breath. Now begin to move your awareness into your heart and allow your breath to settle into your heart.

Quietly, ask yourself the following four questions, one at a time, slowly. Allowing a few minutes in reflection for each question.
1. Who am I?
2. What do I want?
3. What is my purpose?
4. What am I grateful for?

Deepak advises that we not force the answers to these questions. That instead, we should just be aware. That is we should not interpret, rather just be aware using something he calls “SIFT.” In other words, pay attention and notice your S: Sensations, I: Images, F: Feelings/Emotions, and T: Thoughts and see what comes up for you.You may decide to journal, and take a few notes, or it may be enough for you to simply notice and observe.

So I challenge you to take the meditation challenge: for the next week, take 10-15 minutes to practice the exercise. Enjoy the space. I would love to hear about your “meditation experience.” What did you notice? What did you learn about yourself? Feel free to shoot me an email and share at [email protected].