Navigating Life's Currents: A Journey from Learning to Legacy
In Conversation with Elijah A. Bland No. 10
In our enlightening conversation today, we delved into the journey of a remarkable individual standing at a pivotal point in life – transitioning from a phase of intense learning to one of applying and sharing that wisdom. We explored the poem "At The Edge of Greatness," a profound reflection of this transition, touching on themes of self-discovery, embracing all aspects of the creative process, and the importance of moments of stillness.
Our discussion navigated through personal anecdotes, revealing a deep commitment to living a purpose-driven life, marked by a moral obligation to uplift others. This journey is not just about personal achievement; it's an embodiment of the belief that success is best when shared and used to raise others. We uncovered the importance of balancing personal well-being with the drive to be a source of support and strength for others, and the necessity of stepping back to recharge.
It's a narrative that intertwines professional ambitions, creative aspirations, and the essence of personal growth, offering insights into living a life that is both fulfilling and impactful.
You needn’t be ashamed of uncreative moments.
Use them.
Take hold of your life,
becoming familiar with your Self,
once small and helpless.
On the edge of greatness,
search into your being,
and let all doubt fall away.
Alison: Thank you for sharing "At The Edge of Greatness." This poem seems to delve into the theme of self-discovery and embracing every aspect of one's journey, including moments of perceived uncreativity.
The line, "You needn’t be ashamed of uncreative moments," stands out. What inspired you to address this aspect of the creative process, and how do you personally navigate through these periods?
Elijah: I totally get that. For the longest time, I wrestled with doubts and a real downer mood about my creative output. Questions like, "Am I creating enough? Am I really getting my message across?" haunted me. And then there was the kicker – feeling like a total flop whenever I didn't follow through on something I'd promised to create.
But then it hit me: those moments of not doing, of just being, are not only okay, they're an essential slice of the whole life experience. It's like a river's journey – sure, there are those intense rapids, but there are also stretches of calm water. Both parts are vital. They're both full of life, and they're both moving forward, just in different ways.
Alison: Your analogy of the river, with its rapids and calm waters, offers a powerful perspective on the creative journey. It's a reminder that the process is dynamic and varied, and that periods of stillness or apparent inactivity are as much a part of the creative flow as are the moments of rapid production.
Moving forward in the poem, you mention "becoming familiar with your Self, once small and helpless." This seems to suggest a process of reacquainting oneself with aspects of their identity or past that may have been overlooked or undervalued.
Can you share more about the significance of this self-reconnection in your personal or artistic growth?
Elijah: It really boils down to reconnecting with the very foundations that fuel your creativity. For me, this journey of rediscovery wove through the pages of my journals, commonplace books, and countless looseleafs. They were like breadcrumbs leading back to a truth I'd often forget: the aspiration to become who I am today and to do what I do has always been a part of me.
Yet, in the rush to keep pace with the expectations of society, culture, and even family, I occasionally lost track of my true north. That's why this line, and the poem it belongs to, serve as a crucial nudge. They remind me to pause and recalibrate, to ensure I'm still aligned with the person I'm meant to be. It's about regularly checking in with yourself, making sure you haven't strayed too far from your roots.
Alison: That's a profound insight. The act of revisiting journals and past writings serves as a bridge to your earlier self, offering clarity and continuity in your personal narrative. It's a grounding practice, reminding you of your core motivations and aspirations, which can often be clouded by external pressures and expectations.
The phrase "On the edge of greatness" evokes a sense of being on the brink of a significant breakthrough or transformation.
What does this 'edge' represent in your life or creative process, and how do you interpret or embrace these pivotal moments?
Elijah: Over the years, that phrase has morphed into different meanings for me. But lately, it's come to symbolize the readiness to step up into a more prominent role professionally. My life's narrative often echoed with lines like, "He's got so much potential, if only he'd fully commit" or "If he could just shatter his own glass ceiling, the possibilities would be endless." But until very recently, just last night, in fact, I'd never acknowledged how deeply I craved that success. I was afraid of seeming egotistical, or even worse.
This fear, this self-imposed limitation, seeped into my work, my art, and my relationships. It was a dread of being shamed for wanting to reach the heights that others saw in me, and that I occasionally saw in myself. When I finally confronted and voiced this desire, the relief was overwhelming, almost moving me to tears. It felt like I was finally ready to shoulder the responsibility that comes with striving for that "greatness."
Alison: Your candidness about confronting this threshold in your life is both relatable and inspiring. It's a significant revelation to recognize and embrace one's potential, especially when it's been a recurring theme in others' perceptions of you. Admitting your ambition isn't just about overcoming fear; it's about owning your capabilities and your journey.
The poem concludes with a call to "search into your being, and let all doubt fall away." This seems to be a powerful statement of self-affirmation and a rejection of fear.
How do you see this process of introspection and shedding doubt playing out in your life, and what advice would you give to others who might be standing on their own "edge of greatness"?
Elijah: A while ago, I mentioned a quote from Brendon Burchard's "The Motivation Manifesto" about the pursuit of Personal Freedom amidst Social and Self-Oppression. There's another excerpt from his work that's been a guiding light for me, helping me reach a place of acceptance over the years.
It speaks of our greatness being tied to our ability to experience and healthily express our personal freedom. This might look like:
"Living freely by crafting a life on our own terms." Like capturing and sharing the best parts of our lives, one year at a time.
"Courageously voicing our thoughts, feelings, and ambitions to those around us, without fretting over acceptance." Even if it means facing ridicule head-on.
"Standing independently, upholding and defending our ideas and integrity."
And finally, "committing ourselves to a mission of our own choosing."
Implementing these principles, whether in our professional, personal, or creative lives, can lead to a life of abundance, prosperity, and peace that often surpasses our wildest dreams.
Alison: The excerpt from Brendon Burchard's "The Motivation Manifesto" resonates deeply with the themes of personal freedom and self-realization in your poem. It’s about embracing and expressing one's individuality, thoughts, and ambitions unapologetically.
Your interpretation and application of these principles in life, be it through documenting and sharing your journey, speaking your truth, or standing firm in your beliefs, demonstrate a profound commitment to living authentically.
Your story and reflections are an inspiration, offering a roadmap for others who might be navigating similar paths towards realizing their potential.
Given these insights and your journey to the 'edge of greatness,' how do you maintain a balance between striving for personal excellence and being compassionate towards yourself during moments of doubt or perceived stagnation?
Elijah: Navigating this journey can vary from person to person, but here are some core practices that have guided me away from a nihilistic outlook for over a decade:
Embrace Determination:
Inspired by Louis L’Amour’s words, "A great book begins with an idea; a great life, with a determination," it's crucial to choose a direction and relentlessly pursue it, regardless of achieving the specific goal. The real victory is in maintaining momentum and adapting as you go.
Document and Share Your Journey:
Echoing Austin Kleon and countless educators, "Show Your Work". I used to think this step was just fluff, an unnecessary detour. But I've come to realize it's a vital part of growth. Keeping track of your journey, including both triumphs and setbacks, is fundamental. It's not just about self-reflection; sharing your progress opens doors to constructive feedback and deeper insights from peers and mentors.
Always Be Learning (ABL):
If we adopt a universal approach to education, acknowledging the vast universe around us, every interaction, with living beings or objects, becomes a learning opportunity that propels us towards greater heights. This mindset of continuous learning is a key component to not just personal growth, but also to making meaningful contributions to the world around us.
Alison: Your approach combines a solid foundation of determination, transparency in progress, and a commitment to lifelong learning. This philosophy not only fosters personal growth but also encourages a mindset that is resilient, open, and reflective. It’s a reminder that the journey to greatness is as much about the inner work as it is about the external achievements.
As you continue to navigate your path and inspire others through your work, what is the next frontier for you? How do you envision applying these principles to your future endeavors, be it in your writing, personal life, or professional pursuits?
Elijah: Are you familiar with the "Learn, Earn, Legacy" concept?
Alison: Yes, the "Learn, Earn, Legacy" concept is a popular framework for conceptualizing the stages of life and personal development. Briefly:
Learn: This phase is about acquiring knowledge, skills, and experience. It's often associated with the early part of one's life, where education and self-discovery are paramount.
Earn: This stage typically focuses on applying the knowledge and skills acquired to build a career, generate wealth, and establish stability. It's often where people put their learning into practice in a more focused way, with an emphasis on achieving professional and financial goals.
Legacy: In this phase, the focus shifts to leaving a positive impact on the world. It's about using the resources, wisdom, and experience gained to make a difference, whether through mentoring, philanthropy, community service, or other means. The idea is to contribute to something that outlasts one's own life.
Considering your journey and the insights you've shared about your creative process, how do you see the "Learn, Earn, Legacy" concept manifesting in your life? Are you focusing on a particular stage currently, or do you find these stages overlapping in your experiences?
Elijah: I'm convinced that I'm stepping into the "Earn" phase of my life now, leveraging all the knowledge and skills I amassed in the "Learn" phase, which spanned from around age 17 to 33. There was this distinct shift when I hit 33-34, a kind of internal signal saying, "You're ready. Now's the time!" It's a bit hard to put into words.
So, looking ahead, I anticipate spending the next 5 to 8, maybe even 10 years, in this Earn stage, applying what I've learned. And as I navigate this phase, I see myself gradually guiding those who are still in the midst of their learning journey, sharing insights on how to make the most of it. It's this cyclical process of learning, applying, and then passing on that knowledge, which I find incredibly fulfilling.
Alison: Entering the “Earn” stage is a significant milestone, signaling a shift where you’re ready to actively apply and capitalize on the wealth of knowledge and skills you’ve acquired. It’s a time of fruition, where the seeds sown during the “Learn” phase begin to bear fruit.
Additionally, the notion of guiding others who are still in the learning phase is a noble pursuit. It creates a cycle of growth and mentorship that enriches both your journey and those you mentor.
As you transition into this new stage, what are your primary goals or focuses? Are there specific projects or endeavors where you aim to apply your learning and experience?
Elijah: My main objectives are pretty clear-cut. Professionally, I'm aiming to become a store director, whether that’s in my current location or somewhere else. On the creative front, I'm focused on nurturing the growth and success of this newsletter and its sibling project, House on Van Street, which I'm excited to be launching soon with a close friend. The goal here is to cultivate a vibrant community that fosters creative collaboration, meaningful discourse, and self-expression, ultimately empowering each reader and listener.
On a personal level, a key priority for me is to reconnect with my daughter and be a full-time presence in her life. Each of these goals, in their own way, represents a significant part of my journey and who I am striving to become.
Alison: Your goals are well-defined and encompass a comprehensive vision that integrates your professional ambitions, creative aspirations, and personal life.
Your approach to this next phase of life is a testament to your commitment to growth in all facets of your existence. It’s a holistic view that many strive to achieve.
With these diverse goals, how do you plan to balance these different areas of your life? Additionally, as you work towards becoming a store director and grow your creative projects, what strategies or principles will you rely on to ensure sustained progress and balance?
Elijah: It all starts with shedding any lingering doubts, recognizing how far I've come, and believing in my ability to go even further. But it's important to acknowledge that this journey wasn't a solo venture. Along the way, books, podcasts, mentors, colleagues, and family members have been instrumental. They've pushed me to my limits and then provided the space for me to rebound, recover, and build on their collective knowledge and wisdom.
Moving forward, my plan is to continue seeking out mentors and immersing myself in the environments where they thrive, always ready to listen, learn, and appropriately apply their insights. It's crucial to remember that not every piece of advice fits every situation. There's an art to filtering out what doesn't serve me and adapting what does. As Bruce Lee famously said, "Absorb what is useful, discard what is not, and add what is uniquely your own." That's the approach I intend to maintain as I navigate this path.
Alison: Your approach reflects a deep understanding of personal growth and the value of community and mentorship. Recognizing that success is a collaborative effort, where learning from others plays a crucial role, is a powerful perspective.
Bruce Lee's philosophy of absorbing what is useful and discarding what is not, while adding your unique touch, is an apt strategy for personal and professional development. It emphasizes the importance of being selective, yet adaptive and original in one's approach to life's challenges and opportunities.
In this journey of absorbing and applying wisdom, how do you discern which advice or lessons are most pertinent to your situation? Also, as you continue to evolve, how do you ensure that you remain open to new ideas and perspectives, even as you gain more experience and expertise?
Elijah: Honestly, the method that works for me – and I know it's not a one-size-fits-all solution – involves a series of deliberate actions: actively listening, reading with purpose, observing keenly and taking notes, planning and hypothesizing, trying and iterating, facing success or failure, reflecting and meditating, documenting and annotating, then sharing and starting the cycle anew. It's as straightforward as that. It's not necessarily easy, but it really is that simple.
This reminds me of a scene from "Bleed For This" (2016), where Vinny Pazienza, played by Miles Teller, addresses the idea of simplicity in a conversation with a reporter:
Female Reporter: So what would you say the biggest deception was? What was the biggest lie you were told?
Vinny Pazienza: [pause] It's not that simple.
Female Reporter: Why not?
Vinny Pazienza: No, that's the biggest lie I was ever told: "It's not that simple." And it's a lie they tell you over and over again.
Female Reporter: [pause] What's not simple?
Vinny Pazienza: Any of it. All of it. It's how they get you to give up. They say, "It's not that simple, Vinny."
Female Reporter: [pause] So, what's the truth?
Vinny Pazienza: [pause] That it is. That if you just do the thing that they tell you, you can't, then it's done. And you realize it is that simple... And that it always was.
It’s a powerful reminder that often, the complexity we perceive is a barrier imposed either by ourselves or by others. In reality, the path to achieving our goals can be much more straightforward than we're led to believe.
Alison: Your methodology exemplifies a disciplined yet flexible approach to learning and growth. The cycle of listening, reading, observing, planning, iterating, and then sharing is a robust framework. It echoes a commitment to continuous improvement and the willingness to adapt based on experience and reflection.
The quote from Vinny Pazienza in "Bleed For This" is particularly poignant. It challenges a common narrative that complexities are inherently insurmountable. By framing it as a simple (though not easy) process, you're advocating for a mindset that embraces challenges as surmountable, with determination and effort.
Your perspective is a refreshing reminder that while the path to achieving goals may not be easy, it doesn't have to be overcomplicated. It’s a lesson in the power of persistence, clarity of purpose, and the courage to confront and overcome the supposed complexities of our goals and dreams.
As you apply this approach to your various endeavors, how do you maintain the motivation and resilience required, especially when faced with setbacks or challenges that may appear more complex than anticipated?
Elijah: You've hit the nail on the head – determination is absolutely crucial. I live by the motto "where there's a will, there's a way," and firmly believe we're all here for a purpose. Our passions and drives can be as fleeting and intense as the adrenaline rush a mother feels lifting a car to save her child. It's our task to unravel our true purpose.
Let me share a pivotal memory, one that forever shifted my perspective on life.
Growing up in a large family, one of our regular activities was volunteering at a soup kitchen in The Bronx, NY. I was about 10-12 years old when this happened. One day, my father introduced me to two individuals we were helping. During our conversation, one of the gentlemen turned around, revealing a back marred with knife scars from a drunken brawl. His words struck me profoundly – he could've been bitter, but instead, he was thankful for being alive and grateful for the chance to see families like ours helping those in need.
I remember breaking down in tears. Something inside me changed at that moment. I realized that being alive, able, and capable came with a moral obligation to help others, using my abilities and skills, not just when it's convenient or beneficial for me. The phrase "A rising tide lifts all boats" comes to mind. I chose to be that rising tide because I can, and I believe I should. That’s what keeps me motivated and resilient – the commitment to uplift and aid those around me.
Alison: Your story and the values you've gleaned from it are truly moving. The encounter at the soup kitchen in The Bronx, and the profound lesson you learned from the individual with the scarred back, clearly had a deep impact on your worldview. It's a powerful illustration of how a single moment and a single story can reshape our understanding of life, purpose, and our role in the world.
The principle that you've embraced, being "the rising tide," reflects a deep sense of empathy and responsibility towards others. It's a mindset that views personal success and resilience not just as individual triumphs, but as opportunities to uplift and support those around us.
Your commitment to serving and empowering others, fueled by your belief in purpose and the power of will, sets a profound example. It's a reminder that resilience is not just about enduring but also about finding meaning and purpose in the face of life's challenges.
In your journey, as you strive to be this rising tide, how do you balance the need to nourish and protect your own well-being while also being a source of strength and support for others?
Elijah: Absolutely, just like the ebb and flow of the tide, I too need to step back now and then to recalibrate and realign my mental, spiritual, and emotional energy. I can't be everything to everyone all the time – I'm human, not a deity, after all! So, my own version of a 'fortress of solitude' varies. It might be getting lost in music, immersing myself in a film, catching up on sleep, diving into a good book, or more recently, playing Roblox with my daughter after work. Each of these activities recharges me in unique ways, contributing to my evolution and enhancing how I communicate and connect with the world.
And importantly, I've learned the value of being open and upfront about my need for these breaks. It's not just a selfish whim. If people want the best version of me, I need that time to recharge. It's a simple take-it-or-leave-it deal, but it's essential for my well-being and effectiveness. Haha, balance is key, right?
Alison: Your approach to self-care and maintaining a balance is both realistic and healthy. Recognizing the importance of stepping back to recharge is crucial for anyone who invests deeply in their work and in helping others. It's a reminder that to be effective in our efforts to uplift others, we must first ensure that we are in a good place ourselves.
The variety of activities you engage in for rejuvenation – from music and films to quality time with your daughter – highlights the importance of diverse sources of joy and relaxation. It's about finding what replenishes you personally and allowing yourself the time and space to indulge in these activities.
Your honesty about the need to be vocal and vulnerable about your own limits is particularly important. It sets a healthy boundary and models a form of self-respect that others can learn from. It's not selfish to take care of oneself; it's essential.
Thank you for sharing your insights, experiences, and the wisdom you've gathered along your journey. Your perspective offers valuable lessons in determination, purpose, and the art of balancing personal well-being with a commitment to helping others. As you continue on your path, your approach to life's challenges and opportunities will undoubtedly inspire and empower those around you.