the five ways of being are our compass
The Five Ways of Being, developed by Tej Steiner, offer a radical new approach to personal and social transformation. These five universal ‘life-alignment skills’ cut across spiritual and religious differences. They provide both a life-long map for inner development as well as an effective framework for relational well-being.
being clear
asking the questions that matter
In our busy culture of distraction, it is essential to be clear about the questions that matter most, such as: What is our felt connection to the whole? How we can better embody love and wonder? What is our deeper intention before we act? These are all living inquiries that need willingness and courage to hold them in daily life in a world that does not often ask these questions. Being clear begins with asking these meaningful questions and allowing them to shape how we show up and choose to take action in the world.
being present
slowing down to be here
In a world that moves faster than our nervous systems can process, the essential inquiry centers around our willingness to slow down, to relax, to balance mental focus with spacious awareness, and the willingness to feel into the moment as it is. When we quiet our minds and give our full attention to what is here and now, in our bodies, in our relationship with each other, with nature, we are cultivating presence. Being present allows us to respond rather than react. It is the doorway to clarity, connection, and creativity. Love requires presence. Love is presence. It is the most meaningful gift we can offer to the world.
being real
getting real about everything
Three primary ingredients are required to be emotionally real. First, the ability to know what we are feeling. Second, being honest with ourselves and, when appropriate, with others about our feelings. And last, understanding the underlying source of these feelings rather than acting them out. This is obviously easier said than done while living in a society where emotional transparency and integrity is rarely taught or encouraged. Being real requires courage, awareness, audacity, and the support of people who want to be real with you.
being connected
appreciating life no matter what
Being connected means coming out of the terrible myth of separation that dominates the Western world. This myth, like all myths, is not real. In reality, we are relational beings. This is not a believe, but a realization that comes from a felt experience of connection to our own bodies, to each other and to nature. This connection restores us. It informs us that we are not alone, that we belong to each other and to the wider living world, and that well-being is the foundation of our existence. From this place we access a deep appreciation for life, even when things are challenging. It is the ability to see that even in great difficulty, life continues to offer beauty, resilience, and creative possibility.
being life-directed
creating aligned with life
Being clear about our deeper intentions, present in the moment, real in our communication, and connected to the whole, all lead us to in the fifth Way of Being: Being Life-directed. What do we truly want in any aspects of our life? What gifts do we have that we are compelled to share? What brings us peace, passion, and joy? What do we want to create? What do these times call us for? How do we want to contribute to a regenerative culture? These inquiries are answered through life-aligned choices and action. Being life-directed is tapping into our innate wisdom and willingness to live as creators, change makers, followers of the heart.
