I remind myself that I don't have the ability to completely manipulate reality to be exactly what I want it to be.

My first epiphany that this might work came on my first day, when I went into biofeedback. They hooked me up to computers through electrodes, put me in a comfortable lounge chair, put an eye pillow over my face, slipped speakers onto my head and played an audio guided visualization.

What inspires me is the power of human potential... the human potential to evolve in our lives, and for profound healing. It's always been there but it's become somewhat obscure to us given the stressful, fast-paced modern culture in which we live. I'm also inspired by how miraculous some of the simplest and most natural aspects of life can be the greatest sources of healing and transformation.

When I work with private clients now, one of the first places that I try to take them to is cultivating a sense of gratitude for their circumstances. And that's usually one of the first big steps in their healing.

I now realize that a broken back, failed surgery, and Stage IV cancer are three of the greatest things that ever happened to me. Three of the most positive, transformative things that ever happened to me. They helped me become a vastly better person than I ever was, and I am eternally grateful for that.

How can I look at it and say, there it is - it's real. This is what is happening. It might even be a catalyst for more personal growth for me. It might be a blessing in disguise. It might not be. What's my best course of action? How can I be skillful?

My message is believe in yourself. Have courage in your capacity. Listen to your inner voice. And then the critical component of all this is, do the work.