The Steps of a Transformational Journey

By Doreen Hamilton &
Katherine Mapes-Resnik

Ready for a life-transforming retreat? Going on a SpeakingQuest Journey to Your Authentic Self retreat will lead you to Molokai, Hawaii, next May.

The following steps can lead you to the hidden treasures of your true self.

#1. LONGING: If you feel a longing in your heart, a stirring in your soul, or even just a slight yearning for something else, then you might find yourself taking this first step on a journey toward your authentic self. It is hearing the call which marks the beginning of a quest.

#2. DECIDING: Responding to that call with a "yes" is the next step. This may come to you loud and clear or it may come as a faint whisper. Picking up the phone, calling for information, and taking action will move you into making the decision.

#3. PREPARING: Planning and making preparations for the trip are necessary. What clothes to take? Who will feed the animals? How will the office/family/projects get managed in your absence? These questions can be challenging, but in finding the answers you may be surprised by the support that already surrounds you.

#4. DEPARTING: When you deliberately walk away from the routine of your life and find yourself on a new path, it can be liberating. It is important to let yourself stay open and receive. Look at everything and everyone you encounter as if they were handing you a message. As you move toward your destination, you move toward your destiny.

#5. ARRIVING: This step may be filled with both joy and disappointment. The excitement of finally being at your journey's end may be thrilling, but high expectations are often impossible to meet. However, your willingness to explore what is around you and what is happening within you is the key to miraculous self-discovery.

#6. ENGAGING: Engage fully with whatever occurs in the moment and you will discover what you seek. Remember, if your soul brought you to this moment, there is a reason. Gather your experiences, let them speak, and listen with all of your heart.

#7. RETURNING: Turning towards home, you look forward to bringing all that you have gathered on your quest. You realize that you are not the same, and you wonder how you will integrate the new you. Keep the gifts of the quest alive by remembering to stay open to each moment of your life. Thus continues the journey home to yourself.