I’m a big believer in the value of personality profiling, especially when it comes to how we relate to others in the workplace and in social settings.
A few years back I took a battery of tests that would help me understand myself better so that I could relate to my clients in the coaching industry. One of the things I discovered is that I’m a visual learner, and moreover, visually inspired.
The things I see (as the light depicts them) motivate me and compel me to give my best. So a few months back when I committed myself to beginning the manuscript for my first book I took action.
There was a total makeover of my home office. Three different colors on four walls. The color combination of pepper red, chocolate brown and sky blue give me a sense of balance. But the highlight of the makeover was the visual prompts that were hung on those walls.
There is a simple iron cross to my left; family photos of my wife and kids, photos and medals from a few of my past marathons, movie posters from Lonesome Dove, Gladiator and Braveheart; a historical sports photo of Muhammad Ali standing over a floored Sonny Liston after a KO in the first minute of the first round; a large photo of Nelson Mandela, perhaps the greatest champion of democracy that ever lived; a victory photo of the US hockey team after they defeated the Russians in the 1980 Winter Olympics; photos of Jack Nicklaus, Andre Agassi; a space shuttle launch I witnessed in 1988; and the great Larry Bird of the Boston Celtics.
These visual prompts remind me of great times. Great moments. And they inspire me to give my best, especially in my writing.
Directly in front of me is a list of seven life priorities. A copy also hangs on my bathroom mirror. This is intentional to remind me to keep focused on what’s important and eliminate distractions.
And there are some strange parallels I take from knowing that I’m visually inspired. I’ve committed myself to become an author. Over the years I’ve published hundreds, if not thousands, of newspaper and magazine articles, but no books – YET.
Much as I hate stereotypes, I suppose I have one for the way an author should look. So when I made this commitment, I changed the way I dress. I began dressing in the way that I see an author would dress. I started collecting hats, one of which I wear almost every day. And I take a lot of good ribbing from friends about the hats I wear, but it’s part of the fun.
And I now speak a little differently than before. On the things about which I dream, I speak as if they are so. As surely as I type these words I know there is a another home that awaits me in South America where my family and I will spend regular time improving the cause of humanity and spreading the love of Jesus. It awaits…
As I sit here writing at 4 a.m., I’m also reminded of two important things on my desk. There is a lit candle and a small globe. The candle reminds me of the power and purity of the Light, and the globe helps me to recall the world is a small place, and that as a group of committed people we can make a difference in that world.
I couldn’t see these things if it weren’t for the Light, and even if I flipped the light switch off, there’s a candle that still burns and it’s right by my side.
Steven, this is visual art at it’s best. My daughter and I both enjoy watching TV or movies from earlier times because it reminds us of better days. Often food, or books do the same. Even our pets.
Thanks. I started searching the web for an appropriate photo and realized it was right there on my desk!
Interesting write, Steve. I absolutely believe that we create our own realities in many ways. I, too, am a very visual person and have carefully created a wonderful Space of Love where I live. There is loving, healing energy here that comes with loving intent. This Force, this Light is of the Divine and it is part of us. Our connection is so strong because we are part of our Creator. Keep following your inner guidance and you will always be sure that you are doing exactly what you are supposed to be doing at that moment. Hugs, pat