Jon DeWal 

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” Howard Thurman

Jon DeWaal is the founder of Liminal Space, a nonprofit dedicated to helping others navigate life’s major transitions. As Jon suggests change is a natural part of the human story. In all transition, small or large, transformation takes place and it is that process that shapes our future story. How we manage and respond to transition is a choice. How we learn and grow from the experience is powerful. 

In this episode, Jon lays down the fundamentals of change and transition and Why it’s such an important topic. He shares practical tips that we can all benefit from. Enjoy!

Guest Bio 

Jon serves as the Executive Director, transition guide and workshop facilitator at Liminal Space.  Throughout his personal life and professional career, Jon has discovered that handling transition well will allow for a deeper and more fulfilling life.

Through his education, mentoring and the struggles and discoveries of his transitions, Jon found a more natural fit for his career – creating a practice called Liminal Space that combines the often segregated disciplines of spiritual direction, life coaching and counselling. Through this work, he’s come to know and believe in the power of transformation while a person is located in a moment of transition – a liminal space. Though often very challenging and many liminal spaces conjure up many unwanted things, it’s where the truest things in life are found.  It’s where God joins us and anticipates seeing some of the best of who we are, and how we fit into the story.

Coaching

Topics of discussion 

• Liminal ‘limen’ meaning the “the place in between.”
• Apprehension – anxiety or fear that something bad will happen.
• Practices to overcome apprehension – curiosity, questions, compassion.
• Change and Impermanence. Response vs. reaction
• Our story – the power of our identity.
• How to deal with change and vulnerability.
• Victim or engagement mentality.
• More practical tips. Decerning choice. Goals. Visuals.
• Liminal strengths assessment found here at Liminal Space. 

Quick round questions

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

Creating.

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

Learn to disappoint others more. Say “no.”

How would you define success? What does success look like to you? 

How I live my life.

What is one tool, skill, resource, or technique that has helped improve your effectiveness and/or productivity? 

Discipline to protect creative time.

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

Seek and ask for help. Friends, family, colleagues, others.

If I would serve you your last meal what would you request?

Tikka masala.

What activity gives you the greatest sense of joy? 

Woodwork.

If you could pick one book to pass down to your children or future generations what book would it be? 

Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport

Love Wins: A Book About Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived by Rob Bell

Badluck Way: A Year on the Ragged Edge of the West by Bryce Andrews

What quote, phrase or message would you text or tweet to everyone in the world?

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” Howard Thurman

Do we all have a Hidden Why, a purpose?

Yes, we search for it.

What does living with passion and purpose mean?

Passion is a gritty word. It is not something that comes easy. In the challenge of life, it’s the ability to keep going.

What do you believe is the underlying motivation behind everything you do? 

Love and learn what it means to grow.

How to connect with Jon

Website: https://inaliminalspace.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondewaal/

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