Answers to the most frequently asked questions at a Workshop On Genius And Purpose…

How is your use of the word genius different from common usage?

In common usage the word genius refers to extraordinary intellectual capacity or creative achievement. I use the word in the more ancient sense to refer to the God-given spirit that attends you and you alone. This spirit can be thought of as an energy or process that is unique to you and is your gift to humanity.

Why do you insist that a person has only one genius?

Because the ancient tales in our spiritual and cultural traditions agree on that point, and because the point has been validated in my experience of helping people recogize their genius. Always, when people conclude that they have more than one genius, a bit of digging deeper uncovers one underlying unique energy or process.

The notion that a person has more than one genius usually arises from confusing the term genius with talents, skills, passions, purpose, or interests.

Why are your rules for recognizing one’s genius so rigid?

When trying to help people recognize their genius I invite them into a thought experiment in which they assume that certain things are true: you have a genius, you have only one genius, it has always been with you, and so forth. I do this because I see no value in arguing those points. If people enter into the experiment with sincerity, even if they must suspend disbelief, they will come to recognize their genius.

The “rules” are merely the assumptions of an experiment that works when people are seeking their genius.

How is the concept of genius different from that of life purpose?

The ancient tales tell us that our genius is given to us in order to fulfill our life purpose. The energy or process that I call genius can be used solely for our own benefit or for our life purpose, which is an outward benefit intended for others. Genius can be thought of as the primary tool at our disposal to be used for our purpose.

You say that a person’s genius comes naturally, and that it is what the person can’t help but do, so why is it important to recognize it?

We humans seem to be more effective and satisfied when we are using ourselves in an intentional rather than an unconscious way. While genius does come naturally, we are most often unaware of it, sometimes stifle it, and may insist that it has value in situations where it does not.

Also, those who recognize their genius report gaining a stronger sense of identity, a clearer sense of career direction, increased confidence, language to communicate the value that they add to situations, higher work satisfaction and productivity, and a greater sense of personal harmony.