From Big Bucks to Bliss

Click here to read Mick's profile

What was your former work?

CEO of Computer consulting company

What is your new work?

Author / teacher of spirituality and philosophy

What or who inspired you to make the change?

Initially the life of Buddha, and later the words of Jesus (from NKJV), also Marcus Aurelius, The Little Prince!, then many contemporary teachers, Andrew Cohen, Ken Wilber, and David R. Hawkins.

What was the biggest hurdle to making the change?

Giving up the control I never had.

Did you consult someone?

I hired a really good business/career coach so that I could transition out of my CEO career without knowing where I was really headed. This engagement lasted about a year and gave me the confidence to let go of many old ideas I had associated with work and career.

Did you read career books?

Yes. Whatever "career" I happen to be in I continually read book by those who have attained a high level of development in that arena, whether that is a book by Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, Seth Godin, Richard Branson, sports figures, spiritual teachers, or those in the philanthropy or the arts.

Did you take any self-assessment tests?

Yes. I think the most profound test I took was a values exercise to determine where my true interests in life lay. I was surprised by the outcome because it indicated a conflict between money and spirituality that I was not aware of. I was so impressed by the exercise that I evolved it greatly and it now composes a chapter in my current book, Power and Grace.

What skills from your old career are useful in your new one?

Determination, patience, and desire.

Is there anything you miss about the old career?

Yes, knowing that if need 100k I can just pick up the phone, sell something, and make it.

How do you feel now that you've taken the leap?

Much the same as before, except now in a context of freedom from emotional and psychological suffering.

Now when you go to a party, how do you introduce yourself?

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