Welcome back to my blog, where I attempt to share insights and tips for living a more fulfilling and balanced life. As an entrepreneur, father, podcast host, and business coach, I constantly seek ways to harmonize the many roles I play. Today, I’d like to introduce a concept that’s shifted my perspective and helped me relax and enjoy the journey more—realizing that ‘you are It’.
Let’s clarify: By ‘It’, I am not referring to the horror movie or a childhood game of tag. Instead, I’m shedding light on the profound realization that you are the ultimate reality, the source, the essence of existence. You are It’, as eloquently conveyed by philosopher Alan Watts, is a profound realization that you’re an integral part of the universe. This is not an egotistical assertion, but a recognition that you are not separate from the universe, but a unique expression of it. As beautifully put by Rumi, “You are not a drop in the ocean, but the ocean in a drop.”
One of Alan Watts’ most famous quotes is: “You are something that the whole universe is doing in the same way that a wave is something that the whole ocean is doing.” Think about that for a moment. You are not a separate entity that is born into this world and has to struggle and fight for survival and happiness. You are a manifestation of the whole cosmos, a unique and beautiful expression of life. You are not here by accident or by mistake, but by design and by purpose. You are here to play, to explore, to create, to experience.
When you realize that you are “it”, you experience a sudden knowingness that fills you with joy and peace. You stop worrying about the past or the future, and you start living in the present moment. You stop judging yourself or others, and you start accepting yourself and others as they are. You stop resisting what is, and you start flowing with what is. You stop trying to control everything, and you start trusting everything.
I find this concept closely tied to a belief in destiny, akin to the Taoism concept of non-forcing. When you believe in destiny and remember that ‘you are It’, a sense of contentment pervades, even when things don’t proceed as anticipated or at the desired pace. This perspective instills a much-needed virtue in both business and family life: patience. When you realize you’re the universe waving, you can relax, allow things to unfold naturally, and cultivate a serene acceptance of what is.
This perspective is invaluable in my work with entrepreneurs. It enables me to encourage them to find contentment in their journey, urging them to be patient and create space for their dreams to blossom naturally.
The ‘you are It’ realization was especially grounding during the pandemic. The heightened anxiety was mitigated by our gratitude for each day, and the playful reminder of our universal connection helped us cope with stress and find joy even amid uncertainty.
This concept has also transformed the way I engage with others, especially in times of conflict. Being highly sensitive and conflict-avoidant, I used to worry about potential negative outcomes. But now, I see conflict as an essential part of life, as a dance rather than a battle. I focus on participating in the process rather than fretting over the outcome.
To continually reinforce this concept, I strive to meditate for 5-minutes daily, focusing on my breath and the sensations around me. This practice helps me observe my tendencies to judge or react, allowing me to be more present in each moment.
As a father, this philosophy deeply influences my approach to parenthood. I was struck by a piece of content that shared fathers’ unanimous regret—not spending enough time with their children. They wished for more presence and fewer distractions. This resonated with me. I believe presence is a muscle that requires consistent work to strengthen. Even on the toughest days, I remind myself to be wholly there for my children, valuing each moment we share.
I hope this concept resonates with you and offers a new perspective on your journey. Remember, ‘you are It’. You’re the universe experiencing itself through your eyes. Your purpose isn’t to suffer or struggle, but to enjoy and thrive.
To further explore this concept, I recommend listening to Alan Watts’ Recordings to prime your mind. Try incorporating 5-minute daily meditations into your routine and consciously take time to disconnect from distractions and be present with your family. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and stay tuned for more insights on leading a fulfilling, balanced life.
