BE LIKE MIKE
I’ve been thinking with clients a great deal over these past weeks about Michael Jordan and Dennis Rodman. Weird, right? Maybe, yet I am surprised at how often I end up finding beautiful ways to illustrate energy work and the creative process through athletics. There exist many similarities between athletes and creatives. The dedication to craft, ceaseless maintenance, and of course flow to name a few. Surprisingly where athletes and creatives diverge is not among themselves, but under the gaze of others. While the public generally does not deny athletes the training and amenities needed to reach peak performance, when it comes to maintenance, creatives are expected to rely on magic. Would we expect an olympic athlete to rest their performance on magic? Probably not. It is widely accepted that athletes need to stretch, work on nutrition, endurance, mental stamina, spirituality, meditation, and psychology in order to compete. No magic there. As I've written before, creativity, flow - these powerful states many view as magic are simply not. Maintenance gets us there, not magic. Boring, but true. It’s much less sexy to have this point of view! Similar to athletes, creatives require a long list of practices and services in order to compete the way we do. To reach peak performance. Different game, similar needs.
What the Chicago Bulls have to do with an election year. An illustration…
The Chicago Bulls of the 1990’s were legendary. Between 1991 and 1998 Chicago won 6 NBA championships including two three-peats. A true dynasty. Three of those championships were won with Dennis Rodman. Rodman, a power forward, became widely known for not only his incredibly creative hair colors, but more importantly for his rebounds. As the Bulls leading power forward, Rodman’s job was to be under the boards every time a shot was taken. A master at defense, he always seemed to be in the right place at the right time. A league leader in all time rebounds, Rodman racked up nearly 12,000 in his 14 seasons in the NBA ranking him among the top 25 rebounders of all time (you can view a highlight reel of his top 10 plays here). Highlighted for his talent, Rodman also took tremendous heat for his creativity. While other players were often frustrated with his life off the court, Michael Jordan consistently supported Rodman focusing on his ability, what he brought to the team as a player, and more importantly what Rodman allowed Jordan to achieve as an athlete.
Rebounding is not glamorous. The words often used to describe a good defensive play in basketball are battle, block, reject, steal. Rebounding is resistance to scoring. But, without this critically important defensive move even the most talented offense comes to a stand still. And perhaps this is why we focus on defense so much. Like all the time. In pretty much everything.
We are conditioned in most circumstances to defend, get rid of, destroy. To resist. To end. Rather than move toward, create, dream, and birth. We focus on what we do not want and put our energy there, instead of dreaming, lending energy to where we want to go, what we want to create. It can be easier to think of what we do not want instead of where we want to go. And that can be a good thing, if we can use the knowledge of what we do not want to dream of what we do want. But, we often get stuck in defense focused on what we do not want, ignoring where we actually want to go. We become Rodman under the boards instead of Jordan out on the court taking the impossible shot.
The Rodman/Jordan comparison makes a lot of sense when it comes to energy work, as when we begin our study of our own energy one of the first skills we learn is to move energy, reclaiming our space, sovereignty, and moving out energy that does not belong to us. Energy that we handle. A necessary skill. Yet when we deepen our study, as we move more and more of our own energy back into our bodies, we begin to understand that the true power of energy work is to create. We move from Rodman to Jordan and that is when we experience the greatest shifts. In essence this is where we manifest.
Why is this important now?
Election years are weird. I wrote an essay a few months back about what election years can feel like in terms of group energy. Wild, weird, and disorienting for sure. And here we are. When emotions and energy are heightened, as we move more toward the psychotic end of the psychoanalytic continuum, our thinking becomes less clear. Confusion reigns and paranoia surfaces. Our thinking turns concretized, more black and white. We are not as easily able to access grey area, the abstract. We become destabilized. We go on the defensive. The focus becomes fighting against what we don’t want instead of dreaming, creating, and putting energy toward what we do want. Every instance becomes a rebound, a defensive move stuck in resistance. We are Rodman sweating it out under the boards, instead of Jordan gloriously flying across the court taking the shot.
Defense is grand. It truly is. Yet, we are not meant to stay here. From an energetic perspective, defense can turn to resistance and resistance is what gets us stuck. Every single time. Whether it is resistance to a thing, or resistance to an energy that we are handling, resistance is what we mean when we say, “I’m stuck.” Being stuck is being in resistance. It’s the resistance that prevents movement. We aren’t actually stuck, just resistant. And resistance is a struggle.
As we find ourselves right here right now when the pull is to turn to defense, to struggle under the backboard for the ball, how can we remind ourselves to embody Michael Jordan? This is a tall order. Basketball height pun intended.
First it is important to remember that you actually know how to do that already. You are Jordan, much more than you are Rodman. Your body, spirit, and energy better understand being Jordan than they do being Rodman. You are meant to create and soar. If you need a reminder of what that looks like, dig into this highlight reel of Jordan dunking. It is spectacular.
Being in your most magnificent Jordan energy matters. It really does. Especially when we are looking at a marathon of months ahead and not just a single week. Reframing our intention TOWARD something rather than AWAY from makes a huge difference in reaching neutrality, then clarity. Neutrality doesn’t mean apathy. Quite the opposite. Neutrality is clarity. It is being able to regulate the nervous system. To be active, opinionated, and aware, all while staying grounded. It actually feels really good and enables us to be engaged longer at a healthy and restorative level rather than in depletion.
As the weeks pass by and we collectively experience the intensity of what is to come (there is so much on the line), I encourage you to think of Michael Jordan soaring toward the basket. Not resisting against something, not standing for or against something, but moving toward it, imagining it, taking action to create it. As I get swept up in the coming months this will be my reminder to drop my defense and shoot from the three point line. May we all soar enthusiastically toward something - tongue hanging out with a kick ass fist pump.
xxx
LAS
FULL MOON
7-21-24
Capricorn
Gate 60: The Gate of Acceptance
The potent energy of the Full Moon beckons us to delve into self-discovery, urging us to identify and release aspects of our lives that no longer align with our intentions. This Full Moon in Capricorn, the Cardinal Earth sign, resides in the 10th House, illuminating themes of career, soul's purpose, recognition, and ambition. During this celestial event, we are called to explore and reassess our professional paths and the legacy we aspire to leave.
Ruled by Saturn, Capricorn embodies the qualities of success, ambition, and hard work, urging the pursuit of aspirations with diligence and determination. This is an optimal time to focus on building structure, establishing boundaries, and taking on responsibilities in both personal and professional spheres. Saturn's influence emphasizes discipline and the necessity of creating a solid foundation for long-term achievements.
Paired with Gate 60, the Gate of Acceptance, this Full Moon presents an opportune moment for deep reflection. Gate 60 encourages a profound exploration of your limitations and the acceptance of life's inherent constraints. This alignment between your inner acceptance and outward actions is crucial for cultivating meaningful achievements.
This Full Moon is a powerful invitation to dive deep into your internal world, reflecting on your beliefs and behaviors. Assess how they support or hinder your growth, and consider how you can transform what no longer serves you into opportunities for expansion. Embrace this period as a catalyst for shedding outdated patterns and embracing a more authentic and purposeful path.
Here are some journaling prompts to deepen your understanding and engagement with this Full Moon:
1. Reflect on your current career path: How aligned is it with your soul's purpose and long-term aspirations? What steps can you take to bring more structure and clarity to your professional life?
2. Consider how your acceptance of limitations aligns with your true self: What aspects of your attitudes or beliefs no longer serve you? How can you honor your needs, values, and desires more authentically by accepting and working within your constraints?
3. Explore the boundaries and responsibilities you have established in your life: Are they supporting your growth and success? What adjustments can you make to better balance personal and professional commitments?
4. Contemplate any outdated beliefs or patterns that you are ready to release: How can you transform these into opportunities for growth and expansion? What new beliefs or practices can you adopt to support your journey toward fulfillment?
By aligning with the energy of Gate 60, you can enhance your capacity for acceptance, resilience, and realistic goal-setting. This transit encourages you to trust in the power of accepting limitations as a means to focus your energies more effectively and achieve lasting success.
SOLAR TRANSIT
7-24-24
Gate 31 Gate of Leading
On July 24, the sun gracefully transits Gate 31, the Gate of Influence. During this celestial transit, you are invited to embark on a journey of leadership and communication. Gate 31 encourages a deep exploration of your ability to influence others through your words and actions, emphasizing the importance of responsible leadership and integrity.
The energy of Gate 31 advocates for embracing the power of influence and the responsibility that comes with it. It is a time to honor your capacity to lead and to recognize the importance of using your influence for the greater good. This gate emphasizes the importance of clear communication and the wisdom to guide others with integrity and purpose. By allowing yourself the space to step into a leadership role, you gain the ability to inspire and direct those around you with clarity and conviction.
However, this energy comes with its own challenges. Those experiencing the transit of Gate 31 may struggle with feelings of self-doubt or fear of misusing their influence. The urge to dominate or to shrink from responsibility can be strong. It is crucial to recognize that the power of Gate 31 lies in its ability to foster responsible and ethical leadership. By resisting the urge to misuse influence, you can harness the full potential of this gate’s energy.
To enhance the frequency of Gate 31, cultivate practices that support effective communication and responsible leadership. Engage in activities such as public speaking, team collaboration, or any method that helps you refine your leadership skills. This period is ideal for reflecting on your role as a leader and the impact of your influence on others. By embracing your capacity for influence, you create a space for positive guidance and meaningful impact.
Gate 31 tasks you with the opportunity to develop integrity and a strong sense of responsibility. It is a reminder that true leadership often requires clear communication and ethical behavior. This gate also provides a chance to reflect on how you can use your influence to support and inspire others. Consider how your ability to lead with integrity can positively influence those around you.
Here are some journaling prompts to deepen your understanding and engagement with this transit:
1. Reflect on your relationship with leadership: How comfortable are you with taking on a leadership role and using your influence? Consider how responsible leadership can enhance your ability to guide others.
2. Explore your integrity: Are there areas in your life where you tend to misuse or shy away from your influence? Reflect on how you can cultivate more ethical and responsible behavior.
3. Contemplate your communication skills: How can you use this period to refine your ability to communicate clearly and effectively? Consider the steps you need to take to enhance your leadership abilities.
4. Consider your impact on others: How does your ability to lead with integrity influence those around you? Reflect on how you can support and inspire others with your responsible and ethical leaders
By embracing the energy of Gate 31, you can unlock your potential for responsible leadership and meaningful influence. This transit encourages you to trust in the power of your influence and to approach each leadership opportunity with integrity and clarity.
NEW PROMPT!!
Do you know about Tapping? It can be an effective addition to energy work and nervous system regulation. Many of my Mentorship clients include Tapping as part of their daily ritual. You can learn more about Tapping and how to do it below.
EFT - Emotional Freedom Technique Tapping Prompt for this transit.
“Even though it makes me anxious to take on a leadership role and use my influence responsibly, I now trust that ethical leadership and clear communication bring great moments of guidance and impact, and I deeply and completely love and accept myself.”
Have a great week exploring this transit! Ready to learn more about your Human Design? Hit the buttons below to schedule a reading with me and download the free Human Design information sheets to learn more!
THE CREATIVE
Welcome to The Creative. Twice a month I share quotes from the books, Art is the Highest Form of Hope and The Creative Act. I find perspectives on the creative process to be so meta when it comes to life. We are a creative process and everything we do is subject to the same rules. Creation is non-linear. It's messy. It moves forward and backward. And also gets stuck. Oftentimes we do not realize the purpose of a singular creative process until years later. Creativity likes to surprise us.
“It’s wonderful when whole great avenues are blocked off for you by giants because you have to find your own little corner.” - Carl Andre
Copycats suck. It is simply awful to be a creative and watch as another so blatantly takes upon something you have built. Inspiration is one thing, but many artists out there suffer from a failure of imagination and in doing so they present uninteresting versions of someone else's work. And usually this act stinks like trash. There is nothing worse than seeing a shitty version of someone else’s genius. And that’s what results when we base our body of work on the genius of another.
It happens slowly. I’m not sure it is even noticeable at first. And then we edge closer and closer to someone else’s perspective. I have asked myself many times if there is a tipping point, a place where inspiration and iteration turns to aggressive borrowing. In my contemplations about this, I have concluded that artists who engage in this kind of work, these poor versions of another’s genius, are simply out of practice. And by out of practice, I mean out of maintenance.
Their creative process is stuck. Their creative energy is stuck. They have moved from expansion to depletion and invalidation. And this causes uncertainty in their own process, their own practice. When you do not work to maintain your creativity and believe that is magic, that also means you believe that it can disappear.
With maintenance we learn that this isn’t the case. By having sovereignty over the creative process, learning to work with creativity as energy, we develop a clearer understanding of when we are stuck and what to do about it.
Those who copy are simply off their game. And I wish we were better at calling this out as such.
For the creative who watches their work be diluted and sometimes become very popular, resentment grows strong. It can be such a visceral body feeling. A bitterness, anger, frustration. It breeds resistance and for this reason can be hard to navigate. The gift it does bring though is the opportunity to challenge our vision. To see the giant standing in the way and know that there is a better version of that expression we are capable of. It lights a fire under us to know we have yet to discover the true height and essence of the piece, expression, work, whatever has been challenged. We find our own little corner, go back to the basics, break the idea apart and rebuild from a new place. This challenge to our work provides a chance to refine, get deeper within our vision and distill something even more powerful.
While I think it is delusional to approach being copied as purely an opportunity to improve and deepen our intention - let’s sit in the anger for a minute, everyone will survive- sometimes it is the motivation we need in order to witness ourselves be even more embodied in our craft than we thought possible.
Thanks but no thanks. And also, thanks.
LEO SEASON
July 23 - August 22
Leo Season brings a vibrant and creative atmosphere infused with passion and inspiration. As the Sun takes center stage, illuminating the sky and our lives, we are called to embrace the bold and courageous energy of Leo. This fire and fixed sign ignites our inner flame, urging us to express our unique talents and creativity with confidence and charisma. In the 5th House, the spotlight shines on pleasure, romance, and the nurturing of our inner child, encouraging us to indulge in joyful experiences and embrace our individuality. With Leo's emphasis on stability and solid foundations, expect to see tangible results from your efforts as you pursue your passions with enthusiasm and determination. As the "lead actor" of the zodiac, Leo inspires us to shine brightly, radiating our authentic selves and captivating others with our charisma and vitality. Leo Season anticipates a time of creativity, self-expression, and embracing the spotlight as you step into your power and share your unique light with the world.
The bold and vibrant energy of Leo Season can lead to remarkable achievements and creative breakthroughs. Embrace the confidence and charisma of Leo energy to assertively pursue your goals and showcase your talents. Use this time to take center stage, leading with passion and enthusiasm, and inspiring others with your vision. Explore natural leadership qualities to build your brand and captivate your audience with a bold and innovative approach, allowing your unique flair to shine through in your projects and endeavors. Take calculated risks, embrace challenges with courage, and exude confidence in your abilities. Leo season offers an opportune time to step into the spotlight, express your authenticity, and make a lasting impact in your professional and creative pursuits.
