459 | Follow the Thread | Cory Muscara
Episode Details
In this episode: spiritual bypassing, curiosity, fear, wellbeing, inflection points, and what the body stores.
This we are re-joined by Cory Muscara to discuss the benefits of practicing mindfulness while embarking on the FI journey, the concept of spiritual bypassing, and the positive benefits that come from being present. An important part of the FI journey is learning to take actionable steps to better your life, and a large part of this requires introspection and honest reflection of where you are in your life. Through the practice of meditation and setting intentions, it may allow you to recognize patterns that harm you or keep you from enjoying life in the present. While working through triggers or anxieties can be uncomfortable, mindful practices can be the vehicle to move you from discomfort to a place of control and confidence in your life. So while you may be putting all your mental energy into reaching your FI goal, remember that getting to the finish line is not what this journey is about, but rather the positive effects and changes that come from taking control of your life and being present!
Cory Muscara:
- To join Cory's daily text list text "choosefi" to 631-305-2874
- Website: Practicing Human
- Book: "Stop Missing Your Life: How to be Deeply Present in an Un-Present World"
- Instagram: @corymuscara
Timestamps:
- 1:56 - Introduction
- 2:34 - The Cost of Relocation
- 6:28 - The Danger Of Spiritual Bypassing Through FI
- 16:52 - Curiosity and Fear
- 27:22 - What The Body Stores
- 33:18 - Money and Well-being/Inflection Points
- 40:46 - Taking Control and Following The Thread
- 48:12 - Conclusion
Resources Mentioned In Today’s Episode:
- Mindfulness And FI | Cory Muscara | ChooseFI Ep 61
- "Influence, New and Expanded: The Psychology of Persuasion" By Robert Cialdini
- Headspace
- "The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma" by Bessel van der Kolk MD
- Subscribe to The FI Weekly!
More Helpful Links and FI Resources:
- Earn $1,050 or More With These 3 Cash Back Cards
- Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence
- Find a new side hustle with one of our Educational Courses
- Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance
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In this episode of Choose FI, the hosts delve into the concept of financial independence (FI) and explore the psychological impact of pursuing FI to the exclusion of addressing personal trauma or discomforts. The guest, Corey, discusses how focusing intensely on goals can sometimes serve as a distraction from internal fears and discomfort, and this constant pursuit can lead to a state of anxiety, disconnection, and the inability to be still and present in one's life and relationships. He talks about the "high" of being in flow or in deep focus, highlighting that while this can be one facet of happiness, if one constantly needs to chase something to feel okay, the result is a perpetual state of avoidance, which may come with negative consequences such as relationship issues and a feeling of emptiness when the goal's fulfillment fades. The conversation then shifts towards the path to mindfulness and presence, addressing listeners who may recognize themselves in the discussion of anxiety and the constant search for dopamine hits. Corey suggests beginning with free resources available on the Internet for those interested in learning to meditate and becoming more introspective. He stresses the importance of being in tune with one's initial intention for seeking change, advising listeners to take time to understand their motivations and to become aware of their habits and patterns before hastily seeking out tools for change. Corey promotes a gradual approach to personal growth and healing, encouraging individuals to bring awareness to their patterns and spend time being honest with themselves about their fears and behaviors before diving into solutions, emphasizing that some negative habits may have their timeline for change. He also discusses using resources from his podcast, 'Practicing Human', and the role a good therapist can play in supporting someone's healing journey.