STEP 1

 

It is a truism that “recognizing” or “admitting” that you have a problem is the first step to fixing it. You’ll hear supportive types tell you that the epiphany is the “hardest part” of your journey to self-improvement. To that I say bullsh-t. If you want to revel in self-awareness, by all means, be my guest. But you’re no hero. More than likely you’ve messed up so much that you have no choice but to acknowledge your shortcomings. And the cheerleaders are just saying what they need to say in order to keep you on track to (hopefully) get to step 2, 3, 4 etc. And if we’re being honest, the slap on the back and a hearty hurrah is a pretty minimal investment on their part.

 

Nope. Step 1 is the easiest step of all, in my opinion. It’s understandable by the disengaged. It’s readily celebrated by the aforementioned experts and it’s so simple to weaponize. I should know. I’ve been doing it for years. You want to stop your spouse from complaining about your procrastination? Just tell them; “I know. I’m working on it.” Those simple words can buy you unlimited time to, you know, procrastinate.

 

Self-awareness isn’t actually that laudatory. What’s the other option? …delusion? Acknowledging your shortcomings doesn’t really take that much effort. Don’t you already know why you suck? I’m sure you do. Now just say it out loud in the presence of someone else. Voila! Step 1 is accomplished. 

 

I’ve been idling in step 1’s for a very, very long time. And while I believe that people have a true essence that stays with them for life, I do also believe that we are all capable of growth and change. So, in truth, it’s not cool to say “Well, that’s just me.” Complacency is a low bar. We can do better. Can’t we?

 

I’ve learned a lot of things about myself since publishing the magazine and hosting the talk show. I’d like to think that I’m a better person (at least on some fronts). And I hope that I’ve helped others improve their lives. In my position as publisher/host I think I can help most by leading by example (something only a narcissistic person would dream of saying…see? Step 1 again). So starting with this issue I’m going to write a series of articles in which I’ll identify and get help with my shortcomings. And yes, I will deal with my procrastination…eventually. I think everyone close to me will be thrilled to learn that I’m starting with “road rage”.

 

There are other great articles in this issue to help you maximize your wellness. Learn how knowing your DNA can lead to better health. Joel Thuna discusses probiotics, prebiotics and your gut biome and Jelayna Da Silva explains why getting outside to practice yoga is very on trend. As always, if you’d like to discuss this note or anything you’ve read in this issue, feel free to reach out to me.