EPISODE NOTES

On a transformative day, two friends and fellow “entrenovators”—a term I coined for entrepreneurs who innovate—sparked an intriguing conversation by asking two questions that have the potential to shape our lives. The answers can either cultivate discernment and inner strength or lead to self-judgment and feelings of despair. Which path will they choose?

My lovely friend opened our dialogue with, “Is this my life?” This question serves as a compelling invitation to reflect deeply. It prompts us to consider where we’ve been, where we are now, and where we aspire to go. Will we respond with self-judgment, or will we embrace the strength of discernment?

Another cherished friend shared her struggles with the weight of emotions after a friendship she valued became strained. Feeling hurt and confused, she wondered whether her friend lacked compassion. Her question of whether it would be easier not to feel so deeply reveals the complexities of connection and vulnerability.

Both questions indicate an opening for self-growth—opportunities to nurture new ideas and reflect on our experiences. Perhaps a new chapter is beginning, allowing us to garner lessons from the past, release what no longer serves us, and forge a new path ahead.

These inquiries serve as tools to train our minds to think constructively about our lives and relationships. In this instance, one friend has embraced the path of discernment, practicing self-compassion and accepting her friend for who she is, while the other is caught in a cycle of self-judgment and despair, disappointed with her life choices.

My role is to support both friends, offering love, a bit of humor as the situation calls for it, and understanding without judgment, while incorporating Metta meditations at home, sending them loving kindness. This gives me something constructive to do after being present to their pain and discomfort.

Frank Ostaseski, a pioneer in end-of-life care and the founder of the Metta Institute, shares profound insights on the difference between judgment and discernment. He notes that judgment is like a barrier that stifles conversation, traps us in outdated patterns, and restricts our potential. In contrast, discernment opens up possibilities, granting us a broader perspective and allowing our true selves to flourish. It creates the space for wisdom to emerge and empowers us to make choices that lead to a more fulfilling future. This reflection can help us embrace life more fully, especially in the face of death. (2017, The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully, p. 139)

Discernment is our pathway to spiritual evolution and personal growth. If we’re questioning our capacity for compassion, it’s a signal that we need to reevaluate expectations and let go of unhealthy ways of relating.

We are in such odd times that we have to work to not only preserve what is natural and normal—human decency—but we also have to work harder to be discerning by differentiating between what is the truth and what is deceptive intent in a world overflowing with misinformation.

Feeling deeply enhances my ability to think, act, lead, and mentor more effectively. It enables me to embrace my acceptance and to inspire compassion in others, fostering a sense of interconnectedness that enriches my life and strengthens my relationships. I realized I couldn’t access discernment while trapped in a cycle of self-judgment, so I let go of it.

With discernment, I can bring my authentic self to every situation and welcome the lessons learned from all parts of my life. I become attuned to what I need to thrive, fostering connections and living a life of abundance.

The questions in my book, “What Am I Made For? Incubate and Birth Big and Little Ideas,” are crafted to cultivate discernment within you, empowering self-leadership and the birth of new ideas.

As my pre-sale campaign for the book enters its final week, I invite you to support me by clicking on the link to select a package. You can get a signed copy of my book, participate in assessments, help finalize the book cover, and even sign up for my 65th birthday and book launch party in April 2026. Dive into What Am I Made For? Incubate and Birth Big and Little Ideas.

I’m thrilled to celebrate this milestone on my bucket list with you. To enhance your journey, I encourage you to complete the three C.A.L.M. activities below, which include a heartfelt Metta Meditation. Let’s continue on this path of self-discovery and leadership evolution together!

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