Summary

In this episode, I chat with Ira Israel, the author of How to Survive Your Childhood Now that You’re an Adult. It’s an inspiring and an all-encompassing conversation about how to live a meaningful life. We talk about how in raising consciousness and awareness we can move into a life of authenticity. The key to overcoming anxiety and depression and moving towards a deeper sense of happiness. It really is an exiting discussion that will inspire thought and action.

Ira is a licensed marriage and family therapist and professional clinical counsellor, Ira graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and holds advanced degrees in psychology, philosophy, and religious studies. His DVD series, including A Beginners Guide to Happiness and Mindfulness for Depression, along with his sold-out Esalen workshops, have given him a wide international following. He lives in Santa Monica, California, and you can visit him online at http://www.iraisrael.com.

Coaching

Discussion Topics

• The importance of awakening as it is to live an authentic life.
• Capitalism, socialism, right and wrong. Why conditioned prejudices need to be dissolved.
• Happiness as a result of the removal or avoidance of desire.
• The elements of desire and why they can result in suffering.
• Discipline vs sacrifice. Why disciplined avoidance of unhealthy desire can improve self-esteem.
• All sentient beings desire to be loved unconditionally but society has us favouring conditional love.
• The four elements and paths towards authenticity.

Quick round questions

Do you have any routines and rituals that you believe contribute to your success?

Doing what brings me joy.

“A man is a success if he gets up in the morning and gets to bed at night, and in between, he does what he wants to do.” Bob Dylan

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

We cannot change the past so why complain about it.

What is the meaning of success?

Success is measured by my freedom. Do what I love.

What is your number one productivity advice?

You only live once so its best to focus on what’s considered important in your life.

What advice would you give someone that needing/wanting to make a change?

Choose love. Choose your authentic self. Remain curious.

Favourite Food

Soup and Salad.

Favourite Leisure Activity

Playing guitar

Ira’s Book

How to Survive Your Childhood Now That You’re an Adult: A Path to Authenticity and Awakening by Ira Israel

Favourite Quote

“Forgiveness means giving up all hope for a better past.” Lily Tomlin

Do we all have a why?

Yes. It’s called a vocation. We all have tastes. When we tune into our higher self we can tune into our tastes and follow our calling.

What does living with passion and purpose mean?

Choosing love. Invest in your long-term happiness. The relies on the quality of your relationships.

Connect with Ira

Visit and connect with Ira here at his personal website – Ira Israel. 

Further Reading and Resources 

TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading

Psychology Today: Psychology Today is devoted exclusively to everybody’s favourite subject – Ourselves

Life Hack: Tips for Life

Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y

Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.

The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.

Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain

Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate

The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.

American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.

Coaching